California Institute of Technology

Master in Geophysics

Pasadena, United States 2 years Taught in English Open to international students

Why students choose this program

  • Taught in English
  • Applications currently open

About Master in Geophysics

The application deadline for Master in Geophysics is Jan 1, 2027; tuition is 60,816 USD per year.

The Master in Geophysics at California Institute of Technology is a 2-year program for students with a Bachelor's degree. It helps students develop a deep understanding of the Earth's internal and external processes. The program's main advantage is its research-focused approach.

The curriculum covers subjects like seismology, gravity and magnetic fields, and geodynamics. Students develop skills in data analysis, numerical modeling, and problem-solving. The program also includes hands-on components, such as fieldwork and laboratory experiments.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Geophysicist, Research Scientist, Petroleum Engineer, Environmental Consultant, or Professor. They can work in industries like oil and gas, environmental consulting, or academia, with employers like the US Geological Survey, Chevron, or NASA.

About California Institute of Technology

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena is internationally renowned for its focus on science and engineering and for a research environment that emphasizes discovery and innovation. Founded in 1891, Caltech combines small class sizes with world-class faculty and a culture that encourages independent inquiry. The institute’s achievements in fundamental research and technology transfer make it a top choice for students seeking an intensive STEM education and close mentorship from leading scholars.

Caltech offers a compact, high-impact academic setting where undergraduates and graduate students participate directly in cutting-edge projects across physics, biology, engineering and computation. Research opportunities are abundant and accessible, with students contributing to labs, observatories and centers that address global challenges. The collaborative, interdisciplinary approach cultivates both deep technical expertise and the ability to work across fields.

As a relatively small campus community, Caltech provides strong academic support, mentorship and networking in the greater Los Angeles research ecosystem. For international students drawn to rigorous STEM training, Caltech delivers concentrated resources, hands-on research experiences and pathways to meaningful scientific contribution in industry, academia and public service.

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

Duolingo

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85–95

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TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
CEFR level
B1/B2
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Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Master in Geophysics: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fees for Master in Geophysics?
Tuition: USD 60,816 per year. Application fee: USD 105. Service fee: USD 100.
What are the entry requirements for Master in Geophysics?
Entry requirements include: Education: Bachelor's Degree; Academic performance: Grade B-A (60-70%, GPA 2.5-3); English: IELTS 5.5-6.0; Minimum age: 18.
How long is the Master in Geophysics program?
The program duration is 2 year.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 2027-01-01.
Is Master in Geophysics available online?
This is an on-campus program at California Institute of Technology in Pasadena.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

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