Certificate course in

Geophysics and 3D Geo-visualization of the Subsurface

Many earth processes have a source or a component below the surface. Understanding of the spatial and temporal variation of physical parameters in the subsurface, therefore gives additional insight in these processes and their extent. Development of homogeneous 3D subsurface information systems is thus important. Bore hole data, and field-, airborne- and satellite based geophysical data sets are used to generate subsurface volumes in a 3D GIS environment. These data are linked to subsurface dynamic process models to study dynamic phenomena such as resource deposits, pollution plumes, groundwater flow in aquifers etc.

This course serves to deliver knowledge on tools for 3D subsurface characterization, visualization and modelling.

For whom is the course relevant?

This course is relevant for professionals who have to carry out geophysical surveys, data processing or analysis; want to use results from geophysical surveys in their own work and are exposed to geophysics in their work environment and would like to gain a better understanding. These include professionals working in geophysical companies, geological surveys, universities, consultancy firms, and industry.

What will be achieved?

Participants will learn theory and practical use of geophysical methods for subsurface investigations in their day-to-day work. At the end, participants will be able to understand the fundamental differences between various geophysical methods; select the appropriate method for a problem; process and analyse data and interpret these for a specific purpose; write and/or evaluate geophysical proposals.

What is the course content?

The course deals with theory of geophysical methods, applications of geophysical methods, exercises, a case study, preparation of geophysical surveys and analysis of geophysical reports:

• Overview of geophysical methods
• Selection of preferred methods
• Applicability of geophysical methods for a specific application and use of a geophysical decision support tool (GEOPASS).
• Case study I, in which each participant will make a choice out of 7-10 case studies on different applications and using different geophysical methods based on their own interest.
• Quality control in geophysics
• Case study II , a collaborative project to prepare a bid document describing how they would do a geophysical survey, evaluate the bid of other students, and select the one that will be invited to do the survey.

Why choose this course?

This course brings experienced as well as new geophysical users specific knowledge on preferred geophysical methods. This will result in either optimally executed geophysical surveys or better understanding of output from geophysical data for use in subsurface investigations and/or construction.

Admission requirements

Academic level and background

Applicants for the Certificate programme should have a Bachelor degree or equivalent from a recognised university in a discipline related to the course, preferably combined with working experience in a relevant field.

Some courses in the Certificate programme or separate modules require knowledge of, and skills in, working with GIS and/or digital image processing of remotely sensed data.

Skills in taught or related subjects are a prerequisite for some courses in the Certificate programme or separate modules. Even if the applicant satisfies the overall admission requirements, acceptance is not automatic.

English language

As all courses are given in English, proficiency in the English language is a prerequisite. If you are a national of one of the countries in this list (PDF), you are exempted from an English language test. Please note: the requirements when applying for fellowships may vary according to the regulations of the fellowship provider.

English language tests: minimum requirements

Only internationally recognised test results are accepted.

Computer skills

Applicants lacking computer experience are strongly advised to follow basic courses in their home countries.