Oceanography (Level 3) Diploma
Course
Distance
Description
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Type
Course
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Methodology
Distance Learning
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Class hours
200h
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Duration
12 Months
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Start date
Different dates available
Marine scientists are involved in research, analysis and forecasts in relation to the oceans, their life forms and coastal areas
As a marine scientist you’ll analyse the sea and its interaction with the land, atmosphere, sea floors, animal life and plants, and use the information gained to predict changes to the earth’s infrastructure, inform statutory legislation and encourage environmental protection.
Types of marine scientist
Marine science is a broad-ranging field, and you can work in diverse areas, such as:
* biogeochemistry and ecosystems dynamics
* coastal processes
* geology and geophysics
* hydrographic surveying
* marine biology
* marine conservation/environmental protection
* oceanography, ocean modelling and forecasting, and ocean engineering
* palaeoceanography
* zoology.
While all roles require good general expertise and scientific abilities, specialising in an area such as coastal management, fisheries biology, mathematical modelling of ocean change, ecosystem dynamics or chemical risk assessment is usually required for career progression.
Important information
Price for Emagister users: You are saving € 100 buying this course as a package.
You must have one of the following qualification levels to take this course: A Level, BTEC, HND or HNC, NVQ (Level 1-5), Bachelor's Degree, Professional Diploma, Masters, Ph.D
Facilities
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Start date
About this course
In Oceanography, students delve into the vast realm of the world's oceans, exploring diverse topics such as marine biology, ocean currents, geological formations, climate patterns, and the interplay between human activity and ocean health. The curriculum encompasses a multidisciplinary approach, covering elements of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and environmental science. Learners dive into understanding the dynamic ecosystems, marine biodiversity, and the intricate mechanisms governing ocean circulation and climate. They also explore the impact of human actions on marine environments, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change, and develop insights into sustainable practices for the conservation and management of our oceans. Practical fieldwork, data analysis, and scientific research methods are often integrated, offering a comprehensive understanding of the complex oceanic systems.
Oceanography appeals to a diverse audience ranging from aspiring marine scientists, environmentalists, and researchers to individuals passionate about understanding marine ecosystems and their intricate relationships with the planet's health. Students interested in exploring the depths of the oceans, studying marine life, climate patterns, and the effects of human activities on marine environments find oceanography an engaging field.
Furthermore, professionals in environmental sciences, geology, biology, and related disciplines often seek to enhance their knowledge base through oceanographic studies. Oceanography serves as an essential resource for those dedicated to preserving marine ecosystems, fostering sustainable practices, and comprehending the complexities of the world's oceans.
The good news is that no prior learning knowledge or experience is essential to take this course. This course is openly available to anyone wishing to learn more about Oceanography (Level 3) and would like to take part in a highly rewarding distance learning study course. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and study further, so we try to keep our entry requirements to a minimum. You have the freedom to start the course at any time and continue your studies at your own pace for a period of up to 12 months from initial registration with full tutor support.
All online textbooks, study guides, and learning aids designed for online learning. A full range of student services, including 12 months tutor access. Free Open Learning College branded promotional item when you enrol. A personalised award upon course completion with unlimited educational support. PDF or hardcopy certificate to show employers (employer has access to certificate validation) Life-time access to Xperience™ our innovative, interactive Student Hub. Life-time access to Career Hub our dedicated portal to support our students career aspirations. Learning for Life Pack. Invitation to job fairs and career days for your business faculty.
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Subjects
- Geology
- Biology
- Oceanography
- Climate
- Nature of oceanography
Course programme
- This first unit of the Diploma in Oceanography provides a foundation for the rest of the course. It starts by discussing the interdisciplinary nature of oceanography from a Biological, Chemical, Geological and Physical perspective. It involves mathematics and many calculations, such as the speed and direction of currents, routine measurements of the movement of the seas, oceans and atmosphere. Skills to research the different aspects of oceanography are built by investigative skills. Research of the past and the present helps us make predictions, e.g. about impending storms and identifies trends.
Module 2: Maths for Oceanography
- In this second unit, Oceanographers use mathematics in much of their work. In order to collect data and interpret it correctly to make accurate (as possible!) predictions about the impact on e.g. our climate, a thorough grounding in basic mathematical skills is required. This section appears early in the course so that as you study the remaining modules you will have the mathematical skills needed to help in your studies. This section of the course covers the following topics
Module 3: The Ocean Basins
- This unit looks first looks at how the earth was formed in its present structure – its separation into continents and the seas. We then look at the specific 5 main ocean basins in detail. How did they stretch out from the continental masses through plate tectonics, and how exactly did the basins form, move and get characteristically shaped (Bathymetry), e.g. Iceland was shaped by submarine volcanoes. Each aspect of the geology of the basins is labelled, accounted for and the diversity between each is shown. Students study how these basins continue to be shaped today. The unit is divided as follows:
Module 4: Properties of Seawater
- Unit 4 looks at the other major component of the sea, the basins are full of sea water. The topography of the oceans affects the sea water, its structure, composition, and therefore it’s Biology – what lives within the internal environment and how it is sustained, and how light and sound travel through it. We start by looking at the Chemistry and properties of water, and how this affects the oceans, e.g. water freezes to dense ice which floats on top of sea water so that organisms and fish underneath do not die during the winter. This unit is divided into:
Module 5: Currents and Circulation
- The oceans circulate around the world and move to create different types of currents and resulting climates, including extreme weather such as El Niño. This is crucial to human life as its affects all aspects of our life from our weather (winds and atmospheric pressure), the seasons, and climate change and the impact on the lands it meets. Currents can also be used to distribute energy and modern technology is helping us harness and use this energy more easily. The unique properties of water help maintain temperatures so that, for example the Gulf Stream helps warm the UK.
Module 6: Waves and Tides
- This module covers the classification of waves and what causes tides, and their relevance to the marine environment and ecosystem. We will look at how waves, e.g. affect beaches and the shape of coasts (through deposition or erosion), flooding or the impact of anomalies such as Tsunamis. Again both transport and can be used to harness energy. Students will study the following topics:
Module 7: The Oceans and Climate
- This module explains in greater depth the ways in which the oceans (and the specific properties of water) are linked to weather patterns and climate. Discussion about the theories of how climate might change in our future, and related issues such as how human influence may cause possible climate disasters. Why is there such controversy and disagreement about future climate change amongst scientists?
- Palaeoceanography is the study of the geological history of the oceans. It gives us clues about the world’s climate in the past, and can help explain theories such as “why the Dinosaurs died out?” Students learn how rocks, fossils, oil and gas are formed. This unit examines how we can use the oceans to find out about the history of the Earth.
Module 9: Biological Oceanography
- The oceans can tell us a lot about the history of the earth. The organisms within the oceans are dependent on the marine environment being hospitable for life. A study of the history of these marine organisms and their fossils can help us understand their development over time. Humans also depend on, effect and are affected by the marine environment, e.g. we fish the oceans for food, we pollute it with oil spills and this impacts upon the ecosystem. There may be many species yet undiscovered. This module will cover the following topics:
Module 10: Careers in Oceanography
- So why do people study Oceanography? You may already know why you have chosen this subject. Oceanographers are employed in a wide range of different activities, and use their knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics and geology to study the seas and oceans. Careers can involve conducting research, exploring the effects of pollution or marine engineering, investigating climate change, monitoring the oceans for evidence of impact of human activity. This final unit will help you develop your skills in Oceanography and begin to plan a career using these new scientific skills.
Oceanography (Level 3) Diploma