The Theoretical and Applied Geophysics Institute is part of the School of Earth and Space Sciences of Peking University (PKU). The PKU solid earth geophysics major was established in 1956, which is the oldest of such programs in China. It was designated as the only “National Key Discipline” in solid earth geophysics in 2001 and 2007 by the Ministry of Education of China. In 2004 and 2012, it was ranked No.1 in national first-level discipline assessment.

　　The solid earth geophysics program is among the most selective in the country. There are currently 13 full-time tenured and tenure-track faculty members, most with educational backgrounds from western countries. Eight faculty members won career awards from the Natural Science Foundation of China or other national programs.

　　The solid earth geophysics major has undergraduate and graduate programs. The undergraduate program is 4 years and awards Bachelor of Science upon completion. It strives to help all students to be among the best of their peers. The size of undergraduate enrollment is typically 10-20 per year. The curriculum emphasizes solid training in physical sciences as well as the ability to solve complex realistic problems. It offers multiple venues for research, experiment, and field experiences. Past PKU graduates typically work in research and educational institutions, government bodies, and private sectors.

　　The graduate program recruits the Ph.D. level students only. The number of accepted Ph.D. students about 15 per year. Foreign students are welcome. Chinese language is not required before admission.