Ph.D in Geophysics Program

San Diego State University and University of California San Diego are accepting applications for the Joint Doctoral Program in Geophysics. The SDSU/UCSD Joint Program provides full access to the Geophysics curriculum of UCSD’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography, with additional specialized courses and research opportunities offered by SDSU faculty. Assistantships for Fall 2025 are available for research in earthquake physics, wave propagation and strong motion, fault zone structure and dynamics, induced seismicity, computational seismology, and subsurface imaging. Successful candidates must meet doctoral admissions requirements of both universities.

How to Apply

First, follow the graduate steps to apply.

Then, submit using Interfolio:

1. Three letters of reference
2. Curriculum Vitae/Resume
3. An essay describing applicant’s purpose of seeking the PhD

Fall 2024 Deadline

Step 1: Cal State Apply Application—December 1, 2024
Step 2: Submit Documents to Graduate Admissions—December 15, 2024
Step 3: Complete Program Application—January 12, 2025
Step 4: Intent to Enroll payment—April 16, 2025

Note, that the GRE General Test has been waived for Fall 2024 applications!

All application materials including departmental requirements must be submitted by the file completion date.

Application to partner institution, University of California San Diego, occurs after applicants are recommended for admission by SDSU.

For further information, see https://earth.sdsu.edu/jdp/, or send inquiries to Professor Kim Bak Olsen (kbolsen@mail.sdsu.edu).

SDSU-UCSD Joint Doctoral Program in Geophysics Student Handbook