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 an interest in mathematics and science, have a 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 secondary 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 programs related to science and mathematics
There are tons of extracurricular activities and summer programs 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 programs, 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 oceanographer would typically get their bachelor’s degree in Physics.
• Chemical oceanographers determine the chemical composition of seawater and oceans. This type of oceanographer 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 oceanographer would typically get their bachelor’s degree in Biology.
• Geological oceanographers examine the ocean floor, including rocks and minerals. This type of oceanographer 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 organizations 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 organizations that need special skills and vast knowledge of oceanographers. Some oceanographers will work strictly for science and research organizations 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 organizations 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.
