Fysisk oceanografi, masterprogram

During the Masters Programme in Physical Oceanography, you will get an overview of the physical laws governing the time evolution of ocean currents and the propagation of ocean waves. You will get acquainted with the state-of-the-art techniques used to observe and model the ocean. The different courses are designed so that you can explore the main branches of Physical Oceanography, including theory, observation and numerical simulation, and later specialize according to your own interests.

Our programme offers the most comprehensive education in physical oceanography available in Sweden, combining a theoretical training to applied courses presenting modern techniques used to observe the ocean and an introduction to ocean modelling. The programme includes a field work training, where students gets an opportunity to design a small field experiment using a research ship and scientific equipment/sensors. Through field data analysis and the setting up of numerical models, you will also acquire a solid set of skills in scientific data science.

Physical Oceanography is naturally connected to atmosphere and climate sciences, but it interacts also strongly with the other branches of marine sciences, such as marine geochemistry and marine biology. The programme will describe the bridges that exist between these different scientific disciplines, highlighting why physical oceanography is so important to other marine and earth sciences. As part of the Masters Programme, possibility is given to follow a 20-weeks intensive certified course in practical hydrography.

Welcoming students with backgrounds in many different areas

The masters programme in Physical Oceanography is designed to be accessible to students with a wide range of bachelors degrees within the scope of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Physical Oceanography is at its core an interdisciplinary field, relying on the collaboration between people from very different horizons. It offers unique opportunities to tackle some of the most challenging issues of our time, including the prediction and mitigation of climate change, the development of a sustainable use of ocean resources, or the impact of human activities on oceans ecosystems.

Collaborative research possibilities

During the course of your Masters programme, you will have the opportunity to do an internship or exchange studies with international institutions, taking advantage of the numerous collaborations that local researchers have developed in Europe, the US, and beyond, such as in South Africa, Korea, or Australia.

Courses 

The recommended courses provide combined theoretical teaching and at-sea field work. You will receive a theoretical foundation for studying the physics of the ocean, including currents, waves, and effects of rotation and stratification; be introduced to the numerical modelling of turbulence, heat and salt balances, sea ice, lakes, coastal seas, and coupled basins; and gain an understanding of the ocean processes that impact its motion.

• Physical Oceanography I + Physical Oceanography II 
• Ocean Models 
• Observing the Ocean from Micro to Macro Scale 
• Master thesis (30, 45 or 60 credits)

You will also have the opportunity to choose elective courses to tailor your education to your particular interests.

After Graduation

You will have the necessary tools and knowledge to pursue an academic career with further doctoral studies in physical oceanography. In addition, many opportunities exist to work directly after graduation, either in public agenciesor, in private companies specializing in work such as hydrographic observing techniques or climate risk analysis and seeking physical oceanographers with special knowledge of ocean dynamics, data analysis, and computational skills. These employers are found within industry, consultancy, research institutes, and all levels of government.