Oceanography is that branch of Earth Science which is related to the study of seas
and oceans with special importance to coastal waters, estuaries, coastlines the
ocean beds and shelves. The study of oceanography covers wide range of topics, including
ocean currents, waves, and geophysical fluid dynamics; marine organisms and ecosystem
dynamics; the geology of the sea floor and plate tectonics; and physical properties
within the ocean and across its boundaries and fluxes of various chemical substances.
Many people relate careers in oceanography as consisting of swimming with marine
animals at a marine life park or snorkeling in crystal-clear tropical waters studying
coral reefs. But in reality these kinds of jobs are very rare and there is an intense
competition for these jobs. Most oceanographers work in fields that use science
to solve a particular problem in the ocean.
Oceanography Professionals in the field
A person who studies the various aspects of the oceans is known as Oceanographer
or Marine Biologist. The work of an Oceanographer requires the scientific knowledge
of physics, chemistry, biology, geology, engineering, mathematics and geophysics.
This evolving field gives the chance to gain scientific knowledge as well engagement
in various private and public firms. Oceanography takes students to the world within
our oceans which is yet to be discovered. The student is given the knowledge via
theoretical and also practical classes. The students during practical classes are
assigned to conduct surveys, collect samples, and analyze data with the help of
advanced tools and equipment in the sea for many hours.
Oceanography Eligibility Criteria
The basic educational requirement to qualify for a course in oceanography is a bachelor’s
degree in science i.e. B.Sc. or in Botany, Zoology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Sciences,
Fishery Sciences, Agriculture, Applied Science, Microbiology or any similar or equivalent
disciplines. There is usually an on job training which is pooled with seminars and
conferences, short courses and self-managed learning through reading and personal
research. Much of the training is by learning from others, both in your own and
other scientific disciplines.
Job Prospects for Oceanographers
Making a career in Oceanography is inspiring and also very rewarding. There are
many employment opportunities for Geographers, Meteorologists and also Oceanographers
in both public and private sectors. A good oceanographer must be ready to spend
at least 50 percent of his or her time at sea wherein he or she is either conducting
some research or doing a survey. There are tremendous detriments involved in this
type of sea duty but for those who enjoy this career, for them it is one of the
best ways to shape up a career. Owing to this most of the oceanographers have found
that the rewards and applauds that come from discovering the ocean's secrets far
overshadow the hassle of long dispositions at sea.
Oceanography Pay-Package
A fresher, after completing post-graduation in Oceanography can earn a monthly salary
which may range anything between Rs 8,000 – Rs 12,000 in public sector. The salary
is a little higher in the private sector. With a Ph.D., one can earn more than Rs
15, 000 per month.