Oceanography Careers

Mr. Weather’s World is a weekly video series bringing you interesting and reliable information about the Earth Sciences, Space Weather, and Climate Change. Tune in each week for exciting new content with host and meteorologist Curt Silverwood (Millersville University Alum).

Edited with: Final Cut Pro X, Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Character Animator, and Audition.

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Less than 5% of the planet’s oceans have been explored, but ocean scientists continually strive to learn more. Oceanographers study and research a wide range of topics including marine biology, plate tectonics and geology of the sea floor, as well as the chemical and physical properties of the ocean water. There are many disciplines within oceanography.

Oceanographers have an understanding of biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. Careers in the field range from chemical, biological, physical, and geological oceanography to engineering, policy, journalism, and academia.

Biological oceanographers and marine biologists study marine plants and animals. They look at how these organisms develop, relate to one another, adapt, and interact with their environments. These scientists also work to develop ecological methods of harvesting seafood and studying biological responses to pollution. Marine biology is one of the most competitive fields of oceanography.

Chemical oceanographers and marine geochemists research the chemical composition of seawater, and how it interacts with the atmosphere and sea floor. They look at the chemical effects pollutants have on marine environments. These scientists investigate chemical properties of water to help understand how sea water flows around the globe and affects climate.

Geological oceanographers and geophysicists study the ocean floor and its geologic structures. They research how different structures formed and what processes created them. Information gained about ocean rocks and sediments provide historical context of Earth’s geologic record.

Physical oceanographers study ocean properties like temperature, density of seawater, wave motions, tides, and currents. They research how the ocean and atmosphere influence weather and climate.

Ocean engineers design instruments for measuring processes in the ocean. They build structures that can withstand currents, waves, tides, and severe storms. These scientists are from different fields, including: robotics, electrical, mechanical, civil, and chemical engineering.

Marine policy experts combine their knowledge of the ocean sciences with the social sciences. Working to create policies, guidelines, and regulations for the use of ocean and coastal resources. Journalism allows for the spread of important information about oceanography to the general public. They can work for newspapers, magazines, or television and radio.

Those in academia range from middle and high school science teachers to university professors. At the university level, professors are often part of research projects and other types of fieldwork.

Overall, there are many opportunities for those who want to explore the oceans!
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Thanks for watching!

[elenaorozco]

Starting this Fall 2022, my son is going to study Oceanography. I'm here to learn about it and support him. Thanks for the video!!!

[Elisavanmerkesteijn]

I'm currently studying the physical climate system, with a focus on the interaction between the climate and the ocean. Does that mean I can call myself a physical oceonagrapher?

[lanetPulse]

Msc applied geology and geological oceanography which is best