Oceanography
Does Oceanography suit me?
Studying Oceanography
Oceanography focuses on the Earth's large bodies of water: from their physical and chemical composition to their biological and geological aspects. In this field of study, you’ll examine the seas and oceans from different perspectives and learn more about marine ecosystems and their influence on the climate.
Oceanography is based on the natural science, supplemented by mathematics and geoinformatics. You’ll acquire comprehensive knowledge of ecosystem dynamics in the oceans and seas and learn about research methods. This field of study let you typically take part in field research, excursions, or research trips early in your studies.
When studying oceanography, you’ll either focus on the general study of the oceans or on specific areas: are you more interested in the physical conditions of oceanic currents or the chemical composition of seawater? Would you like to learn more about marine life or the structure of the seabed?
Oceanography is a field of study that offers various opportunities for specialization, mainly in applied fields or combinations with other disciplines. Typical degree programs include geophysics and oceanography, oceanology and oceanography, aquaculture sciences, and oceanography.
Personal requirements | Oceanography
- Interest in water, oceans and the environment
- Enjoy interdisciplinary work
- Willingness to travel and flexibility
- Analytical way of thinking
- Independence and ability to work in a team
Study Choice Test
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Take the testTypical course content | Oceanography
- Tides
- Climate models
- Geodynamics & geothermal energy
- Oceans in the climate system
- Seismology
- Measurement methods
- Applied geophysics
- Fluid dynamics
- Data analysis and modeling
- Forecasting ocean currents and sea conditions
Career prospects | Oceanography
As an oceanographer, you’ll research the oceans and seas, whether it’s ocean currents, the composition of the ocean water, or the geological structures of the seabed. You can pursue a career, for example, in climate research or in the fields of education and public relations.
After your studies, you’ll be qualified to find many jobs with companies, organizations, and public authorities in the field of environmental protection. For example, you can work on habitat conservation projects and advise on nature conservation measures. You can also secure a position in the maritime industry or with energy companies.
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