Marine biology
is just one of the many disciplines under oceanography.
There are four major fields in oceanography; biological, chemical, geological and physical. Each branch requires a different set of studies, all of which can be obtained at the university level and higher. Other oceanography branches include engineering, journalism and marine policy.
Obtaining a Degree
One way to begin a career in oceanography is to earn an oceanography degree at a university. However, the most common method to starting an oceanography career is to obtain a degree in a related field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, or geology, and then work directly with an ocean-related job. You may also pursue graduate courses in oceanography.
Biological
Marine biology is a graduate-level course. Students should begin by obtaining a bachelors in biology, with strengths in math, science and computer science.
Chemical
To pursue a career in chemical oceanography, undergraduate students need a degree in chemistry or a related field with one year of general, organic and physical chemistry.
Geological
In order to pursue geological studies, students must have strong courses in geosciences at the university level. Additional courses to help support this major include math, physics, chemistry and biology.
Physical
Physical oceanography requires a strong set of physics-related courses, such as basic physics and laboratory physics. Supporting this major are other classes such as math, chemistry and biology.
Tags: chemistry biology, Marine biology, related field, this major, university level
