Having a strong fundamental background in your option will allow you to apply this knowledge to oceanographic problems in your graduate courses.Īlmost all of the incoming graduate students at the School of Oceanography have had some prior research experience in oceanography, or a related field. As a graduate student, you will be expected to take courses inside and outside your chosen option, and these courses will largely consist of reading foundational or cutting edge scientific papers on the topic, solving problem sets with realistic applications to oceanographic questions, or writing research proposals related to the topic.
More often, incoming students have had a strong preparation in one of the natural sciences, engineering or mathematics their main option. It is rare for incoming graduate students to have had formal academic training in oceanography. In Biological Oceanography, many incoming graduate students have taken advanced courses in microbiology, ecology, or bioinformatics.
In Marine Geology and Geophysics, incoming graduate students have usually taken advanced courses in petrology, others. In Chemical Oceanography, most incoming graduate students have taken one or more advanced chemistry courses in either inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, or physical chemistry. For example, in Physical Oceanography most incoming graduate students have taken advanced mathematics courses in differential equations, others. Success in graduate level courses in each option usually depends on prospective students having taken at least one advanced (upper division) course related to that option. The academic preparation necessary for success in graduate school at the School of Oceanography varies depending on your option (Marine Geology and Geophysics, Physical Oceanography, Chemical Oceanography and Biological Oceanography). They will have the best advice for you based on your proposed research project, and the courses you will be expected to take. If you are unsure whether the courses you have taken are sufficient for success in the School of Oceanography, reach out to your prospective mentor and discuss options. Although the guidelines below are outlined as broad expectations for graduate students in the School of Oceanography, communicating with your prospective mentor about your academic and research preparation and expectations once you arrive, will enhance your success as a graduate student. Success depends on having a good working relationship with this mentor, and having effective communication about the expectations for working in their lab. In graduate school, you will be taking courses and working on a research project under the guidance of one or more faculty mentors, who will help you design and execute your research project and who will provide you with guidance as you navigate graduate school and look for a future career. Success in the School of Oceanography depends significantly on effective and regular communication between you and your prospective mentor. Considering factors beyond the courses you will take is key to success. Finding an institution that is right for you in terms of providing the all-around support you need can mean the difference between frustration and success. The strength and quality of an institution is related to its academic rigor, but equally important is its commitment to supporting its students before, during and after their tenure at the institution. Beyond the academic instruction that graduate school provides, it also offers opportunities and experiences for future careers in teaching, scholarship, research, policy and other fields. Expectations and Keys to Success in the School of Oceanographyĭeciding to go to graduate school is an important choice that can determine the direction of your career.