Course content

The course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and methods of seismic interpretation. It covers the acquisition, processing, and interpretation of seismic data to understand subsurface geology. Students will explore techniques such as seismic horizon mapping, fault and structural interpretation, and amplitude analysis. Practical sessions include hands-on exercises using industry-standard software to analyze 2D and 3D seismic datasets. The course emphasizes how seismic interpretation supports exploration and production for the energy business, as well as ways to plan locations for Carbon Storage and Sequestration (CCS).

This course will cover topics such as

• Introduction to geophysical methods in subsurface characterization.
• Seismic data, methods and interpretation.
• Well and synthetic seismogram data.
• Stratigraphic and structural interpretation of seismic data.
• Seismic acquisition and data processing

Learning outcome

Ingress:

Students are required to have a good overview and understanding of the fundamentals and applications of seismic interpretation within geology and geophysics.

Knowledge:

Students are required to have an in-depth understanding of the physical principles of seismic reflection and how seismic data relate to subsurface geological structures. They must have good knowledge of stratigraphic and structural interpretation, seismic attributes, and the integration of seismic data with geological information. The students are also required to understand the workflow for seismic interpretation, from data acquisition and processing to final structural and stratigraphic mapping, as well as the role of interpretation in exploration and resource assessment.

Skills:

Students must be able to interpret and evaluate 2D and 3D seismic datasets using professional software tools. They are required to identify horizons, faults, and stratigraphic features, construct time and depth maps, and assess geological and resource implications. They must also be able to perform basic seismic attribute analysis and integrate interpretation results with other subsurface data. Use of subject-specific digital tools, including programming where relevant, is required.

General competence:

Students are required to demonstrate general competence in communicating interpretation results, both verbally and in writing, and in collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams. They should be able to evaluate the reliability of seismic interpretations and understand their impact on exploration decisions and subsurface modeling. The course prepares students for professional work in seismic interpretation in the energy industry and related fields.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and compulsory exercises. The exercises allow the students to apply their theoretical knowledge gained from course lectures through practical interpretation tasks on paper and workstations. The exercises are either solved through teamwork (3-5 students) or individually. The course is given in English and will be evaluated by a reference group.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Courses: TPG4100 Physics and Geophysics, TGB4100 Geology, Introduction, TGB4150 Structural Geology, Basic Course, TGB4165 Sedimentology and Stratigraphy, or equivalent courses. Basic knowledge of geophysical interpretation software such as Petrel, Opendtect, Kingdom suite etc.

Course materials

Book, lecture notes and scientific articles.

Credit reductions