Physical Oceanographer

Tasks & duties

Oceanographers may do some or all of the following:

• study the ocean's currents, waves, tides and all other flows
• observe how the ocean, atmosphere and climate affect one another
• collect and study rocks and sediment from the sea bed
• carry out research into marine life
• carry out research into aquaculture in relation to the environment
• use instruments on satellites to find out about the temperature of the sea's surface, surface currents, plankton concentrations, and wave heights
• measure temperature, salt and gas contents with electronic instruments
• develop and run computer models for their area of specialisation such as ocean circulation and mixing or ocean waves
• study and map underwater formations such as volcanoes and earthquake faults
• look at risks to coastlines from storms and tsunamis (tidal waves)
• study the oceans impact on coastal engineering works such as submarine pipelines
• plan experiments and write research proposals
• provide information for search and rescue missions
• write reports and scientific papers
• lecture at universities.

Skills & knowledge

Oceanographers need to have:

• knowledge of the ocean and marine environment
• knowledge of fluid mechanics (the way fluids behave)
• research skills
• skill in analysing and interpreting research results and other information
• practical skills for performing experiments and operating scientific equipment
• problem-solving skills
• planning and organisational skills
• communication skills
• writing skills, for writing reports and for publications
• maths and computer skills.

Entry requirements

To become an oceanographer you need a postgraduate degree in physics, applied mathematics or general oceanography. To do research work a Doctorate in physics, or applied mathematics, oceanography, engineering, marine science or biology is needed.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required. Useful subjects include physics, chemistry, biology, maths with calculus and/or statistics, and English.

Training on the job

Many skills are gained on the job, including how to design and organise an experiment to be carried out at sea. Oceanographers may attend conferences, read scientific journals, use the Internet and talk to colleagues to keep up to date with the latest developments and scientific techniques

Related courses

Applied Science (General)
Earth Science
Marine Sciences
Science (General)

For more information, please refer to myfuture.