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Physical Oceanography

  • Years2 Years
  • ECTS credits120

Main content

Introduction

Objectives and content

The master's program in meteorology and oceanography with a specialisation in physical oceanography gives the student a deep and broad understanding of the physics and especially the dynamics of the ocean, such as wind- and density-driven currents, mixing processes and tides. The master's thesis provides an advanced and deep understanding of a selected oceanographic subject. The study program covers topics that range from local (fjord, coast, continental shelf) to global scale, including polar areas. The programme also includes the use of advanced statistical and numerical methods, oceanographic measurements, and theoretical analysis, as well as communication to a scientific audience. The master's thesis is an independent research project, and a central part of the master's program, where the student, under guidance, contributes new knowledge

What you Learn

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the programme the candidate will have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The candidate

  • can use the technical terminology for the oceans¿ and fjords' dynamics, physics, and thermodynamics and can demonstrate advanced knowledge of these
  • knows and can evaluate oceanographic research and debate within the associated disciplines
  • knows the societal relevance and challenges within operational forecasting, aquaculture and marine research
  • has advanced knowledge of mathematical, statistical and numerical methods for analyzing geophysical data
  • is familiar with interdisciplinary problems in related disciplines, such as climate, meteorology, informatics and geoscience

Skills

The candidate

  • can use advanced oceanographic instruments to perform reliable measurements and understands the underlying measurement principle as well as sources of uncertainty
  • can critically assess data quality and geophysical information sources, and work systematically with errors and uncertainties from measurements
  • can use advanced mathematical and statistical methods for analysis and visualization of oceanographic problems, in particular using programming
  • can carry out an independent research project under guidance
  • can apply their knowledge to new scientific problems within physical oceanography and related disciplines

General competence

The candidate

  • can formulate and discuss analytical strategies and carry out analyzes of complex problems
  • can work with oceanographic problems individually and in groups
  • can analyze, interpret and discuss their own results in a scientifically sound and critical way
  • can present orally and in writing, and explain and discuss complex problems with colleagues
  • has knowledge of and respects scientific values such as openness, precision and responsibility, and knows the difference between scientific knowledge and opinion

Study Period Abroad

Study period abroad

Study periods at institutions abroad through the ERASMUS program are agreed with the supervisor and must be a part of the master¿s agreement. It is possible to write the thesis at UNIS.

How to Apply

Semester

Autumn.

Admission Requirements

Bachelor¿s program in Meteorology, Oceanography, Climate Physics or similar.

Bachelor's degrees in applied mathematics or physics may qualify, if they include at least 20 credits from atmosphere and ocean sciences, or theoretical and applied fluid mechanics. A bachelor's degree in physics with solid knowledge in fluid mechanics will also be considered.

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About the programme

See full study plan