Marine biogeochemistry

Introduction

Objectives and content

The master's program in meteorology and oceanography with a spezialisation in marine biogeochemistry gives the student a deep understanding of the ocean's chemical composition, i.e., different substances, whathow biogeochemical processes affect element, and how these are linked to climate and climate change. The study covers how chemical substances in the ocean are distributed, and how these are affected by various processes. These include vertical mixing, transport, biological activity and gas exchange between atmosphere and ocean, as well as the use of chemical tracers to quantify mixing processes. The study program examines how the carbon cycle is affected by natural and man-made climate changes, such as changes in carbon dioxide uptake and ocean acidification. The program also covers the use of advanced statistical and numerical methods, measurements and theoretical analysis, as well as communication to a scientific audience. The master's thesis provides an advanced and deep understanding of a selected marine biogeochemical subject. The master's thesis is an independent research project, and a central part of the master's study, where the student, under guidance, contributes new knowledge.

What you Learn

Learning Outcomes

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

Knowledge

The candidate

• can use the terminology of biogeochemical cycles and gas exchange in the sea, and their role in the climate system, as well as demonstrate related advanced knowledge
• knows of and can evaluate current marine biogeochemical research and debate within the associated disciplines
• knows the societal relevance and challenges within Earth system modelling, aquaculture, and marine research
• has advanced knowledge of chemical, mathematical, statistical and numerical methods for analyzing geophysical data
• knows interdisciplinary problems with related disciplines, such as climate dynamics, meteorology, physical oceanography, 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 works systematically with measurement errors and uncertainties from measurements
• can use advanced chemical, mathematical and statistical methods for the analysis and visualization of oceanographic problems, in particular using programming languages
• can carry out an independent research project under guidance
• can apply their knowledge to new scientific problems within meteorologymarine biogeochemistry and associated disciplines

General competence

The candidate

• can formulate and discuss analytical strategies and carry out analyzes of complex problems
• can work with marine biochemical 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

Teaching in the master's program courses takes place in the form of lectures, seminars, experiments, fieldwork, scientific cruises, calculation exercises, group exercises, computer exercises, discussions and presentations. The Geophysical Institute has a focus on using active teaching methods and including the students in decisions concerning individual subjects and the study program. Details about the courses can be found in the course description. The master's thesis is an independent scientific work, which is carried out under the guidance of a professional supervisor.

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.

You also need to document:

• Average grade of minimum C (equivalent to Norwegian grade C)
• Proficiency in English