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

The objective of the degree is to train research-oriented scholars focused on physical quantities and processes in the ocean. 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
Identify, design, and execute research studies or experiments
Critically evaluate and interpret research outputs
Effectively communicate novel research results in oral and written scientific presentations and manuscripts
Understand the process required to lead peer-reviewed publications
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:

20 credits.

MEEG 690 - Intermediate Engineering Mathematics Credit(s): 3
MAST 655 - Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Credit(s): 3
MAST 691 - Fluid Dynamics in Marine Systems Credit(s): 4 *
MAST 693 - Waves in the Marine Environment 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 every year of residence until all other requirements are met. [1 cr each]

Note:

*Please note that the course in fluids is alternating every year between SMSP and CIEG and has different course numbers every year.

One Three Credit Course:

One three credit course outside of the Physical Ocean Science and Engineering 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 the following:

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

Additional Graduate-level Coursework:

Students will work with their advisors to determine what additional coursework must be completed and how many research credits must be taken to complete the degree.

Doctoral Dissertation

MAST 969 - Doctoral Dissertation Credit(s): 1-12 (9 credits)