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Study plan for MAMN-GFFYS Physical Oceanography, spring 2024

Name of qualification

The master's programme leads to the degree Master of Science in Meteorology and Oceanography. It is a two year programme (120 ECTS credits).

Language of Instruction

English

Semester

Autumn.

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

Required 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

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:

Recommended previous knowledge

You must have completed a BSc in meteorology and oceanography or in an equivalent field. You need competence in meteorology, including basics in climate and atmospheric physics. You should have basic knowledge about theoretical and experimental aspects of meteorology as well as in computer programming and data analysis. Thorough background in mathematics (linear algebra, partial differential equations, function theory, Fourier analysis, statistics), as well as in physics (thermodynamics, fluiddynamics, and classical mechanics, continuum mechanics), are recommended

Compulsory units

The master's programme consists of two components: Coursework of 60 credits and an individual research project (master's thesis) of 60 credits

The courses GEOF313, GEOF310, GEOF346 and GEOF337 and GEOF339 are compulsory. In addition, there are 15 credits of elective courses, chosen in agreement with the supervisor.

4. Semester: Master's thesis
3. Semester: Master's thesis
2. Semester: GEOF337, GEOF339, elective course
1. Semester: GEOF313, GEOF310, GEOF346

Master's thesis: GEOF399 Master's thesis in meteorology and oceanography with specialization of 60 credits. It is recommended that the Master's thesis is started in the third semester. The Master's thesis must be submitted within a deadline at the end of the fourth semester, 20 November or 1 June. It is possible to write a master's thesis with supervisors from external research institutes or subject-relevant companies.

Recommended electives

The courses have to be chosen in agreement with the academic supervisor. The courses GEOF301, GEOF338, GEOF343, GEOF347, GEOF348, MAT330, GEOF321 are among the most relevant.

Master thesis credits

The master's project is a scientific study of a problem defined in collaboration with your academic supervisor. The problem may be addressed by theoretical modelling in combination with analyses of observational data. The study must be finalized by writing a master's thesis and by giving an oral presentation. Both will be evaluated by a scientific panel.

Sequential Requirements, courses

The recommended sequence of the courses in the programme can be found under the heading "Compulsory units".

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.

Teaching and learning methods

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.

Assessment methods

Assessment of the courses in the master's program is a combination of written and oral exams, written reports or other submissions, approved participation in teaching and fieldwork, and oral presentations. The students also receive continuous feedback. The assessment forms for each course included in the master's program are described in more detail in the course description. The master's thesis is assessed by an expert committee. The study is concluded with an oral master's degree examination after the master's thesis has been submitted and has been assessed and approved as part of the master's thesis.

Employability

Our physical oceanographers are in high demand. In addition to recognized and sought-after professional expertise, you will gain the necessary skills for the knowledge- and innovation-based working life such as coding, teamwork, project management and critical thinking. You can make a career in everything from consulting companies, via green innovation and public administration, to research and education. Tasks include consulting for business and social security; development, innovation and research for climate adaptation and sustainable social development; forecasting and management of renewable energy resources; planning and risk assessment within, for example, insurance, resource management and the aquaculture industry. Experts in socially critical activities such as ocean surveillance are always needed. Many of our students are therefore recruited to the aquaculture industry and public knowledge providers such as the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research, the Meteorological Institute and the Norwegian Polar Institute, and to international innovation-oriented companies such as StormGeo. A master's degree in physical oceanography provides a formal basis for admission to the PhD program and further research in physical oceanography, meteorology, climate dynamics and marine biogeochemistry. You will also be well suited to disseminate ocean and climate information through various media, not least related to the marine industries. Last, but not least, together with pedagogical education, a master's degree can be used for a career as a lecturer and the education of future generations of natural scientists.

Administrative responsibility

Please contact the academic adviser for the program if you have any questions:
studierettleiar@gfi.uib.no
Phone: + 47 55 58 26 04