Tips on how to become an oceanographer

Compiled by Chidimma C. Okeke

Oceanographers use science and mathematics to study interactions between oceans, continents, the atmosphere, and the biosphere. Oceanographer’s work is dedicated to understanding and predicting how oceans work, as well as how to best take advantage of the resources oceans provide us with.

If you want to build a career as an oceanographer, you must develop interest in mathematics and science, have love for the environment and enjoy research and hard work. The following tips would help you to become an oceanographer.

Education

 Take science and mathematics classes in high school

It is a good idea to get a head start on your studies if you want to pursue a career in oceanography. Taking advanced mathematics and science classes in high school will ensure that you are properly prepared once you get to college.

 Some of these classes may include earth sciences, biology, geology, geography, physics, etc. If the thought of taking these types of courses is not appealing, then oceanography probably isn’t the right career path for you.

Participate in after-school programmes related to science and mathematics

There are tons of extracurricular activities and summer programmes that will allow you to learn more about different career paths through science and mathematics.

Joining a science club is a great extracurricular activity for you to try.

 Obtaining the proper college education

Study the right subjects

Once you have determined what kind of oceanographer you want to be, you’ll be able to choose specific majors and minors to get your degrees in. This decision will be an ongoing process that may change as you study for your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. But before choosing college programmes, it is important to know that there are different types of oceanographers who have different specialties.

•           Physical oceanographers study currents, waves, tides and ocean circulation. This type of oceanographers would typically get their bachelor’s degree in Physics.

•       Chemical oceanographers determine the chemical composition of sea water and oceans. This type of oceanographers would typically get their bachelor’s degree in Chemistry.

•       Biological oceanographers study how marine animals, plants and organisms interact with their environment. This type of oceanographers would typically get their bachelor’s degree in Biology.

•       Geological oceanographers examine the ocean floor, including rocks and minerals. This type of oceanographers would typically get their bachelor’s degree in Geology.

Get a bachelor’s degree

Oceanographers usually get their bachelor’s degrees, majoring in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, or Geology. These majors will help prepare you for your master’s studies. There are some schools that offer bachelor’s degrees in Marine Biology, which is another option for you.

Obtain professional certification in Oceanography

Although professional certification is not typically mandatory to be hired as an oceanographer, many oceanographers choose to get certified voluntarily. Earning a professional certification can have many benefits, including the potential for a higher salary

 Working as an oceanographer

 Find an internship

Many organisations and schools offer internships to those who are either in school for oceanography or have earned degrees in Oceanography. Getting an internship provides you with hands-on experience, and is a great way to familiarise yourself with different elements of oceanography.

 Look for an assistant or technical position

Having a Bachelor of Science degree will typically enable you to work as a research assistant or computer technician within your desired field. After you have gotten your bachelor’s degree, apply for research assistant jobs or any other support position jobs while you go back to school for your advanced degrees.

 Get a job as an oceanographer

There are numerous organisations that need the special skills and vast knowledge of oceanographers. Some oceanographers will work strictly for science and research organisations and others will apply their skills to different types of corporations. For example, an oceanographer could be hired by an oil company to help determine the best location to place an underwater pipeline.

Many different types of companies and organisations hire oceanographers, including:

Colleges and universities

Environmental and engineering consulting firms

Federal government laboratories

Marine science institutions

Marine transport companies

National Defense Research (NDR) establishments

Private corporations, like oil and gas companies

Private research institutions

Source: www.wikihow.com

By Teen Trust News

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