OCEANS-PHD - Oceans (PhD)

The objectives of the doctoral program in Oceans are to enable students to develop the skills needed to conduct interdisciplinary, collaborative and original investigations into oceans-related research to advance exploration and knowledge of our blue planet and tackle the most pressing challenges in climate and sustainability. Graduates must also be able to interpret research results and present the data and conclusions in a publishable manner while developing strong teaching and effective public-facing communication skills. We anticipate that our students will pursue various careers in academia, public and private sectors, including government labs, NGOs, and state and local governments.

Advising Expectation

Upon entering the program, students will be assigned a First Year Advisory Committee, consisting of the student’s primary advisor and 1-2 other faculty members who align with the student’s scientific interests. Advisory committee support will include recommendations for first-year courses, navigating policies, plans for teaching assistantships, guidance on fellowship applications, discussion of general research interests, and designing and conducting research. Students will be encouraged to meet with members of this committee throughout the first year to request further guidance on these topics.

Graduate students are active contributors to the advising relationship. They should proactively seek academic and professional guidance and take responsibility for informing themselves of policies and degree requirements for the Oceans PhD program.

In addition, the Oceans program adheres to the advising guidelines and responsibilities listed by the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education and in the Graduate Academic Policies.

See Graduate Advising for a statement of university policy on graduate advising.