It is known that 70 percent of our planet is covered by water, so it makes sense to study the oceans to understand them. And that’s precisely what an oceanographer does – and you can start a career by exploring the Best Colleges for Oceanography in 2024.
More specifically, oceanographers study marine life and the interaction of marine life with its aquatic environment. And because the oceans are so big, it also stands to reason that there will be many different careers or ways to do oceanographic work.
In this writing, we shall discuss the Best Colleges for Oceanography; their requirements, and their cost. Meanwhile, below is our table of content.
Table of contents
- Who Are Oceanographers?
- Why Should I Study Oceanography?
- Best Colleges For Oceanography
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
- University of Washington—Seattle, Washington
- University of North Carolina—Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
- Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida
- Coastal Carolina University, Conway, South Carolina
- Hawaii Pacific University, Honolulu, Hawaii
- Humboldt University, Arcata, California
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania, Millersville, Pennsylvania
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, Pennsylvania
- Stockton University, Galloway, New Jersey
- What Are The Job Perspectives Of Oceanography?
- Colleges for Oceanography -FAQs
Who Are Oceanographers?
Oceanographers are interested in understanding the health of the ecosystems that make up the world’s oceans. This can happen in the depths of the sea, estuaries, coasts, and waterways.
People studying oceanography come from disciplines such as chemistry, physics, and biology and learn how to use the cutting-edge technology of oceanographers to study the oceans.
Activities in this area include marine biologists, geophysicists, physical oceanographers, marine chemists, marine physicists, and biological oceanographers.
Why Should I Study Oceanography?
A degree from College of Oceanography offers you a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. There are also many practical training courses. With such extensive skills, oceanographers understand and help manage the world’s oceans.
In addition, a degree in oceanography is critical as it supports understanding the effects of pollutants on seawater. You will also learn how to maintain the quality of ocean waters in the face of increasing human demands on them.
To summarize everything, as an oceanographer, you will understand and predict how the world’s oceans and seas work and how you can use your resources most efficiently and sustainably.
How Can I Become An Oceanographer?
Oceanographers typically receive background training in biology, physics, chemistry, and geology, but they generally focus their research on one area or another.
Oceanographers start with a bachelor’s degree and then deal with internships or entry-level positions.
The exact central, minor, and specialization can vary from school to school. Ideally, an oceanographer will gain educational experience in hydrology, oceanography, environmental science, or geosciences.
In addition, oceanography schools may offer specializations such as chemical, marine geology, and physical and biological oceanography.
To occupy a top position as an oceanographer, students usually acquire a master’s or doctoral degree before becoming ocean scientists and high-level researchers. However, the introductory course exposes students to hydrology, oceanography, environmental science, or geosciences.
Some of the best Colleges for Oceanography schools offer undergraduate degrees in marine biology. However, most oceanographers continue their studies before looking for work. There are usually internships and assistant positions for people with only a Bachelor’s degree.
How Long Does It Take To Study Oceanography?
The duration of the oceanography program varies depending on the institution and program.
Bachelor degree
The minimum education for a career in oceanography is a bachelor’s degree in oceanography or basic science. In most cases, a Bachelor’s degree takes three to five years. With a bachelor’s degree, you get an entry-level position. If you want to specialize, an advanced degree is required.
Master and doctoral studies
A master’s degree in oceanography takes two to three years. With a master’s degree, you can work on-site and participate in full-time research.
On the other hand, if you want to teach college-level oceanography, a doctorate in a specific area of oceanography is required. However, it extends over two to four years.
Oceanographers with doctoral degrees can conduct their research and have access to research positions at the highest level. Some oceanographers with a doctorate combine research with teaching.
If you want to pursue a career in Oceanography tuition-free, a scholarship is available for you. Click on the link to explore the 17 Undergraduate Scholarships for Oceanography Students.
What Does An Oceanographer Do?
An oceanographer is a unique type of scientist who studies the ocean. The oceans are a large environment, and so is the science of oceanography. Oceanographers examine every aspect of the sea, the ocean’s physical, chemical, and biological properties or even life in the sea.
Healthy oceans are critical to maintaining a healthy planet. Oceanographers are some of the most crucial climate researchers in the fight against the effects of climate change, overpopulation, and overfishing.
Regardless of which area an oceanographer chooses as primary studies, you still need to understand the other aspects of oceanography. Nevertheless, Oceanographers perform the following functions:
- They study marine ecosystems and their inhabitants. This may include researching animals or trips to the ocean to conduct various experiments, collect data, or track the animals.
- An oceanographer examines the movements of the oceans, tides, waves, and currents that move the water itself.
- Chemical oceanographers observe the chemical composition of seawater and its effects on the planet. You can investigate pollution or help find natural resources on the ocean floor.
- Geological oceanographers focus on studying the bottom level of the ocean. They study underwater volcanic activity and its connection to the movement of tectonic plates or the deep oceanic trenches immersed thousands of feet deep.
- They collect samples and data from the seafloor using special equipment and techniques.
- Analyze the samples for natural and contaminating composition.
- Oceanographers perform simulations of ocean phenomena using a computer or mathematical models.
- You use statistical models of laboratory and field data to examine hypotheses and make predictions.
How Much Does An Oceanographer Earn?
According to the Bureau of Labor, Statistics, the median wage for oceanographers was $ 90,890 a year. Payments for oceanographers vary depending on the employment sector. Employees in the oil and gas production industry earn more than those employed by the federal government and engineering service providers.
The employment prospects for oceanographers are expected to increase by 16% between 2012 and 2024.
What Degree Will I Get In Oceanography?
Oceanography is a practical course of study and offers students many opportunities to conduct research and field studies. Although a bachelor’s degree in oceanography can prepare students for some entry-level positions in this area, most graduates must complete a master’s program to qualify for jobs in oceanography.
When choosing a degree in oceanography, chemistry, and physics, there are many options for a traditional degree and university opportunities. The standard path for those earning a degree in oceanography, chemistry, and physics can take a standard of two to four years to earn a degree.
Best Colleges For Oceanography
Here is a list of the Best Colleges for Oceanography equipped to meet your study needs and help you build a career in Oceanography.
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
- University of Washington—Seattle, Washington
- The University of North Carolina—Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
- Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida
- Coastal Carolina University, Conway, South Carolina
- Hawaii Pacific University, Honolulu, Hawaii
- Humboldt University, Arcata, California
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania, Millersville, Pennsylvania
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, Pennsylvania
- Stockton University, Galloway, New Jersey
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Marine Science: Biological Oceanography
North Carolina State University offers a bachelor’s degree in oceanography, technically a BS in marine science focused on biological oceanography.
The program includes a prescribed curriculum, including courses such as coastal environment introduction, physical oceanography, and coastal processes.
Students with a bachelor’s degree in oceanography have access to the 51,000-square-meter state-of-the-art Center for Marine Science and Technology (CMAST) on the banks of Bogue Sound, where they participate in student research projects and field studies.
Tuition: $8,581
Acceptance Rate: 47%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 81%
University of Washington—Seattle, Washington
Bachelor’s in Oceanography
The School of Oceanography at the University of Washington in Seattle offers interdisciplinary Bachelor in Oceanography courses with BA and BS courses. In addition, students can further customize their curriculum by choosing between orientations in the life sciences or the natural sciences.
Some examples of course titles include methods of analyzing oceanographic data, basics of ocean sensors, marine biogeochemical cycles, and coastal oceanography.
Oceanography students can access several state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including RV Thompson and Friday Harbor Laboratories.
Tuition: $11,839
Acceptance Rate: 49%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 84%
University of North Carolina—Wilmington, Wilmington, North Carolina
Bachelor’s in Physical Oceanography
The University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers a unique bachelor’s degree in oceanography that combines the disciplines of physics and physical oceanography.
To meet the requirements for the major, students must complete the general educational requirements, the core of physics, and additional courses focusing on oceanography.
Specific course titles include computer physics and complexity, coastal and estuary systems, observation methods, and data analysis in physical oceanography.
Bachelor students of oceanography also take part in a cruise before graduation.
Tuition: $6,691
Acceptance Rate: 61%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 73%
Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida
Bachelor’s in Oceanography
The Florida Institute of Technology’s bachelor’s degree in oceanography is interdisciplinary and combines courses from disciplines such as mathematics, physics, meteorology, biology, chemistry, and more.
The program is also very diverse and allows students to choose from one of five available concentrations: biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, coastal zone management, marine environmental science, and physical oceanography.
Florida Tech’s bachelor’s degree in oceanography regularly seeks degrees from renowned universities such as the University of Alaska, MIT, and Princeton.
Tuition: $39,290
Acceptance Rate: 65%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 60%
Coastal Carolina University, Conway, South Carolina
BS in Marine Science: Atmosphere/Ocean Dynamics
The Bachelor of Oceanography at Coastal Carolina University is technically a marine science major focusing on atmosphere/ocean dynamics.
The program primarily aims at students wishing to study physical oceanography or atmospheric science.
Students will sign up for courses such as hydrographic techniques, coastal processes, marine environmental problems, and geographic information systems. Students with a bachelor’s degree in oceanography can choose to double the major in another Bachelor of Science program.
Tuition: $10,530
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 44%
Hawaii Pacific University, Honolulu, Hawaii
Bachelor of Science in Oceanography
Hawaii Pacific University offers a highly customizable bachelor’s degree in oceanographic degree with a focus on chemistry, biology, math, and fisheries science.
Specific course titles include Hawaiian natural history, evolutionary genetics, natural resource management, and geological oceanography. Students with a degree in oceanography are well prepared to begin a career in marine and water sciences in both the public and private sectors, as well as an advanced degree in oceanography.
HPU oceanography students enjoy small class sizes and routinely take field cruises aboard the university’s 42-foot research vessel.
Tuition: $22,440
Acceptance Rate: 75%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47%
Humboldt University, Arcata, California
Bachelor of Science in Oceanography
Humboldt University offers a flexible bachelor’s degree in oceanography that can be adapted to the student’s interests and career goals.
The core curriculum for the major includes course titles such as chemical oceanography, oceans, and climate, as well as sample techniques and field studies.
Oceanography students participate in field cruises and research projects near the campus and in the University of Trinidad’s marine laboratory.
Graduates are well prepared for entry-level careers, including aquaculture technicians, chemical oceanographers, hydrographic surveyors, and marine research assistants.
Tuition: $7,195
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 52%
Millersville University of Pennsylvania, Millersville, Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Science in Ocean Studies and Coastal Sciences
The Millersville University of Pennsylvania Bachelor in Oceanography is a BS in Ocean Science and Coastal Studies with an option in Physical Oceanography.
In addition to the required geoscientific courses, such as field methods in oceanography, climate dynamics, ocean data analysis, and presentation, oceanography students will take courses in related disciplines, such as chemistry, research, and physics.
Millersville University oceanography students regularly participate in experimental learning activities and hands-on experience at the Wallops Island Science Center.
Tuition: $10,918
Acceptance Rate: 78%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 60%
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, Pennsylvania
Bachelor’s in Marine Science: Oceanography
The bachelor’s degree in oceanography from the Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is a BS in marine science with a focus on oceanography.
Students who follow this oceanography track will sign up for marine biology, physical oceanography, remote sensing, and physical geology courses.
Kutztown University’s bachelor’s degree in oceanography students routinely participates in field-intensive experiences at Chincoteague Bay Field Station on nearby Wallops Island in Virginia.
The students complete the program well-prepared for entry-level oceanography and marine sciences careers and studies.
Tuition: $9,411
Acceptance Rate: 83%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 55%
Stockton University, Galloway, New Jersey
Bachelor’s in Marine Science: Oceanography
The Stockton University oceanography bachelor’s degree is a major in marine science with BS and BA degrees in oceanography.
This oceanographic concentration includes titles from specialty courses such as Global Ocean Basins, coastal sediment processes, marine geology, and data methods in marine science.
In addition to the traditional courses, oceanography students regularly participate in laboratory experiments and research projects for students at the nearby Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Stockton Marine Field Station.
Tuition: $12,820
Acceptance Rate: 84%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 74%
What Are The Job Perspectives Of Oceanography?
Most employment prospects related to oceanography are expected to grow faster than the average growth rate of all jobs in the next ten years. For example, Marine Engineers and Naval Architects are positions that are expected to grow 12 percent, which is above the 7-8 percent average.
And these jobs also pay up to three times the average of all jobs in the country. Noting this, obtaining a degree from any College for Oceanography will be a wise deal.
Colleges for Oceanography -FAQs
Bachelor of Science degree with a major in oceanography. Specializations include biological, chemical, or physical oceanography or marine geology and geophysics. A minor in oceanography. A minor in marine biology (offered jointly with the Departments of Biology and Aquatic and Fishery Sciences)
The minimum education required for a career in oceanography is a bachelor’s degree in oceanography or basic sciences. In most cases, a bachelor’s degree can be completed in three to five years. You will be able to get an entry-level-type position with this degree, but to specialize, an advanced degree is required.
The field of Oceanography is the best career option for people having an interest in the study of the ocean and its surrounding environment.
Communication skills
Critical-thinking skills
Outdoor skills
Physical stamina.
Problem-solving skills.
Conclusion
With over 70% of the earth’s surface covered with water and recent technological advances to be seen, there seems to be no limit to what can and will be discovered in the science of oceanography. That is why our best colleges for oceanography would be a great starting point for you if you want to build a career in that field.
References
- www.niche.com › colleges › search › best-colleges-with…
- www.bestcollegereviews.org › top › best-bachelors-deg…
- www.universities.com › programs › oceanography-che…
- www.collegeraptor.com › Bachelors-degree › State › All
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