Module manager: Jon Mound
Email: J.E.Mound@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
SOEE2550 Applied Geophysics
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module teaches the fundamental theory and practical application of geophysical techniques commonly used in environmental geophysics, through a combination of lectures and data processing practical sessions, as well as field work experience. Lectures will establish the theoretical foundation of a range of geophysical techniques and fundamental geophysical surveying approaches, with practical sessions focusing on the implementation of theory through collection, processing, and interpretation of real data.
On completion of this module, students should be able to...
• Provide students with an understanding of the underlying physical principles of selected geophysical techniques (e.g. near surface seismology, gravity, magnetics, geoelectrics, electrical resistivity, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)), particularly as applied environmental problems, such as ground water pollution and finding buried infrastructure.
• Understand which methods are best suited image common targets in environmental geophysics and how best design field experiments, and how process and interpret geophysical field data.
• Provide training in geophysical surveying skills including survey design, field safety, field data recording and quality control.
• Practice the efficient presentation of results and interpretation through oral and written reports.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes:
SSLO1: Understand the fundamental principles and practice of key geophysical techniques as applied in environmental geophysics
SSLO2: Appraise a geophysical acquisition strategy for its suitability for imaging a subsurface environmental target
SSLO3: Appraise data processing, and analysis strategies for their ability to produce reliable geophysical insight
SSLO4: Create geophysical subsurface models based on interpretation and integration of archive geophysical datasets
SSLO5: Produce reportage, consistent with professional standards, that effectively conveys the inferences from environmental geophysical analysis.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
SKLO1: Collect, organise and analyse large data sets using appropriate techniques in the field and laboratory (work ready, sustainability skills).
SKLO2: Recognise and use subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts and principles (sustainability skills, work ready).
SKLO3: Report findings in concise technical reports to professional standards (academic skills, enterprise, digital).
SKLO4: Report project results in oral form to an audience (enterprise, academic skills, digital skills).
SKL05: Design and perform geophysical field measurements in a team (work ready, sustainability skills, enterprise skills, academic skills).
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Based Learning | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Lectures | 30 | 1 | 30 |
| Seminars | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Practicals | 10 | 20 | 20 |
| Fieldwork | 5 | 7 | 35 |
| Private study hours | 112 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 88 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Opportunity for formative feedback through submission of a first formative technical report using single method. Peer feedback and reflection component for submission of a second technical report integrating more than one method.
Formative feedback during fieldwork, data processing, and QC. Formative feedback during data processing practicals.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Group Oral Assessment | 30 |
| Coursework | Coursework | 70 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 11/05/2026
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