Physical oceanography is based on theory and methods from classical mechanics and thermodynamics. Methods include observations in the sea using instruments based on latest technology, advanced methods to analyze observational data and simulation using mathematical models.
OCM100 and OCM210 Physical oceanography I + II (15 + 15 credits): These courses give the theoretical foundation for studying the physics of the ocean, including currents, waves and effects of rotation and stratification.
OC6310 Ocean models (15 credits): The course introduces numerical modelling of turbulence, heat and salt balances, sea ice, lakes, coastal seas and coupled basins.
OC4920 Observing the Ocean from Micro to Macro Scale (15 credits): The course will provide an understanding of the ocean processes that impact its motion (e.g. circulation and property exchange) and the scales that they occur.
Master thesis (30, 45 or 60 credits): Several active researchers may act as supervisors. Thesis work may also be supervised by external researchers at industry or public institutions.
In addition to the courses above you are expected to add electable courses up to a total of 120 hec. MAR440 Marine project (15 credits) is recommended.
Application procedure
More information in https://utbildning.gu.se/education/admissions/how-to-apply
Grant opportunities
Students who are citizens of countries outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland are required to pay application and tuition fees. However, there are some exceptions to this general rule.
You are not required to pay application and tuition fees if:
- You are a Swedish citizen
- You are a citizenship of an EU or EEA country or Switzerland
- You have been granted a permanent Swedish residence permit
- You have been granted a temporary Swedish residence permit for reasons other than studies (having a temporary residence permit for studies in Sweden does not exempt you from paying fees)
- You are a family member of a citizen of an EU or EEA country and have a temporary or permanent right of residence in Sweden
- You are a family member of a citizen of Switzerland and have been granted a Swedish residence permit
- You are an exchange student
- You are a PhD student
If you are exempt from paying fees, you must provide documentation verifying your status.
Learning outcomes
With a master degree in Physical Oceanography there are ample possibilities for a career within many areas of society where employers seek the special knowledge of ocean dynamics, data analysis and computational skills of physical oceanographers. These employers are found within industry, consultancy, research institutes and all levels of government. The degree also gives the merits to continue within research with PhD studies in Sweden or on the international arena. This will be in a research branch that has a tendency to expand due to the large future challenges regarding climate and ocean environment.
Prerequisites
REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree in oceanography or meteorology or physics or mathematics (or the corresponding knowledge) from an accredited (internationally recognized) university. Applicants must prove their knowledge of English: English 6/English B from Swedish Upper Secondary School or the equivalent level of an internationally recognized test, for example TOEFL, IELTS.
SELECTION: Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 225 credits.
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