Marine Studies - Physical Ocean Science and Engineering Concentration (MS)

The objective of the degree is to train scholars with research experience and an ability to analyze and provide ocean physics relevant information in all practical settings. Students that complete this program will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of key aspects of the structure and circulation of the ocean
Understand the fundamental physical dynamics of the ocean
Develop the ability to use theory, numerical models, and observations to understand physical ocean processes
Understand and synthesize literature material
Execute a research study or experiment
Critically evaluate and interpret research outputs
Effectively communicate relevant research results in oral and written scientific presentations and manuscripts
Effectively present in professional and public forums
Develop group management, and task management skills

Program Policy Document:

Please see the Program Policy Document for more information.

Requirements for the Degree:

All students in the master’s program are required to complete a minimum of 30 graduate credits. A course outside of the POSE program and the student’s area of concentration is required. All students must write a thesis. Students may bypass the master’s degree and work directly toward the PhD upon petition. Requirements for the PhD degree are similar to those for the master’s degree, but are more intensive. in addition to required coursework, written and oral qualifying examinations are required before students are admitted to candidacy for the PhD degree.

Required courses:

MEEG 690 - Intermediate Engineering Mathematics Credit(s): 3
MAST 691 - Fluid Dynamics in Marine Systems Credit(s): 4
MAST 693 - Waves in the Marine Environment Credit(s): 3
or
MAST 655 - Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Credit(s): 3
MAST 811 - Oceanographic Time Series Analysis Credit(s): 3
MAST 882 - Physical Ocean Science and Engineering Seminar Credit(s): 1 or equivalent must be taken each spring semester during each year of residence until all other requirements are met. [1 cr each]

One three credit course

One three credit course outside of the POSE program. This may include one of the specially designed introductory courses or a more advanced course. Students may not test out of these classes. Introductory courses outside of this program include

MAST 627 - Biological Oceanography Credit(s): 3
or
MAST 660 - International and National Ocean Policies Credit(s): 3

Additional graduate-level course work as determined by advisory committee

Students will work with their advisors to determine what additional coursework must be completed and how many research credits must be taken to account for the remaining credit hours needed for a minimum total of 30 credits.

Master’s Thesis

MAST 869 - Master’s Thesis Credit(s): 1-6 (6 credits)