The Department offers both traditional, research-oriented graduate programs and a non-thesis professional education program designed to meet specific career objectives. The program of study is selected by the student, in consultation with an advisor, and with thesis committee approval, according to the student's career needs and interests.

The CSM Geophysics Department conducts research in a wide variety of areas mostly related to, but not restricted to, applied geophysics. There are a variety of research centers and projects within the department. In addition, faculty and graduate students from the Department of Geophysics work closely with other departments across campus to develop interdisciplinary approaches for solving geoscience and geo-engineering problems.

Students may obtain a Master of Science Degree in either Geophysics or Geophysical Engineering. Both degrees have the same coursework and thesis requirements, as described below. Students are normally admitted into the Master of Science in Geophysics program.