Oregon State University United States

Oceanography (B.S.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Oceanography (B.S.) at Oregon State University is an undergraduate degree designed for students passionate about understanding the complex systems that govern our oceans, from their geological formations to the intricate biological and chemical processes at play. You will explore critical environmental issues such as climate change, marine ecosystem health, and human impacts on marine environments, gaining a comprehensive interdisciplinary perspective. This program is ideal if you seek to develop a strong foundation in physical, chemical, biological, and geological oceanography and are driven to contribute to scientific understanding and conservation efforts in marine science.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Science degree is studied over four years, providing a structured yet flexible curriculum that integrates foundational science with specialized oceanographic topics. You will engage in hands-on learning through field and laboratory experiences, potentially including research cruises and the analysis of oceanographic data, guided by Oregon State University's expert faculty. You will graduate with transferable skills in data analysis, scientific communication, and teamwork, prepared for diverse career paths in marine research, environmental consulting, government agencies, or further graduate studies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Oceanography program provides a comprehensive foundation in the study of Earth's oceans. Students will explore fundamental concepts in chemistry, calculus, and biology, alongside specialized oceanographic topics such as biological, physical, chemical, and geological oceanography. The curriculum also emphasizes data analysis, research methods, and broader scientific principles, preparing graduates for diverse careers in marine science and related fields.

1 First Year

General chemistry and laboratory for chemistry 231
Differential calculus
Oceanography
Composition I
General chemistry and laboratory for chemistry 232
Integral calculus
Introduction to biological oceanography
Introduction to field oceanography - land
Lifetime fitness for health
Introduction to field oceanography - sea
Introduction to physical oceanography
Bacc core: speech
Bacc core: difference, power & discrimination

2 Second Year

Climate science
Principles of biology: cells
Oceans, coasts, and people
Bacc core: PAC
Bacc core: cultural diversity
Principles of biology: organisms or principles of biology: populations
Coastal oceanography
Introduction to statistical methods
Bacc core: writing II

3 Third Year

Oceanographic data analysis
Research projects, thesis, or internship
Additional BI, PH, or CH course
General elective
Physical geology
General physics or general physics with calculus
Quantitative skills
Bacc core: social processes & institutions

4 Fourth Year

Chemical oceanography
Biological oceanography
Geological oceanography
Principles of physical oceanography or coastal and estuarine oceanography
Grand challenges in oceanography
Oceanography elective
General elective
General elective
General elective
General elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 41,110.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 164,440.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 799.00 - USD 1,094.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Corvallis Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Marketing & SalesAgricultural Services & ExtensionCivil & Infrastructure EngineeringEnergy Storage & TechnologyEnergy Trading & MarketsFisheries & AquacultureGovernment & Regulatory AgenciesHydropower & Alternative RenewablesProduct Design & PrototypingSupply Chain & Procurement

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Genentech

H2Alluvium

HDR

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

National Energy Technology Laboratory

Providence Health & Services

Salem Health

Why Study Oceanography (B.S.) at Oregon State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Oregon State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Oregon State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Oceanography (B.S.) at Oregon State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during term time and full-time during breaks. Off-campus work may be available after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language requirements, acceptable scores include a Duolingo overall score of 100 or a TOEFL overall score of 70. IELTS candidates need a minimum overall score of 6.0.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as marine biologists, oceanographers, environmental consultants, or policy analysts.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Oceanography Major covers the interdisciplinary study of oceans, focusing on physical structure and geological history. Students engage in topics like ecology, chemistry, and hands-on experience through research cruises.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Oceanography (B.S.) program has multiple intake months: January, March, June, and September. Choose a month that aligns best with your schedule for starting your studies.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️