Graduate Program in Oceanography
Oceanography is an interdisciplinary science. Our research staff constitutes a team with backgrounds in physical, biological, geological, and chemical fields, that combines their expertise to investigate the marine environment and marine life.
SFOS and the Institute of Marine Science provide opportunities for graduate education to students who have previously earned baccalaureate degrees in any natural science or, in some cases, mathematics or engineering. Undergraduate training in marine science is not required for admission to the program.
M.S. candidates concentrate in biological, chemical, fisheries, geological, or physical oceanography. For each of these specializations, students must demonstrate through course work and comprehensive examination both a broad grasp of marine science and detailed knowledge of their specialty. There are no fixed course requirements for the Ph.D., nor is a prior M.S. required. The Ph.D. is awarded for proven ability and scholarly attainment; each candidate's program is planned with his or her own advisory committee.
Photo: The SFOS-run R/V Alpha Helix in one
of its rare rests at the UAF Institute of Marine Science's Seward Marine Center.
SFOS faculty, researchers, and students conduct research aboard the ship year-round.
SFOS photo by Dave Partee.