Oceanography & Marine Science

Overview
Oceanography and Marine Science focuses on the study of oceans, marine life, coastal systems, and the physical, chemical, biological, and geological processes that shape the marine environment. Students explore the ocean’s role in climate, ecosystems, conservation, and global sustainability.

What You Will Learn

• Marine biology and ecosystems

• Ocean currents, waves & tides

• Marine geology and seabed structures

• Chemical composition of seawater

• Ocean–climate interactions

• Marine conservation and biodiversity

• Coastal management

• Research diving basics

• Marine data collection & analysis

• Environmental monitoring

Career Opportunities

• Marine scientist

• Oceanographic technician

• Coastal zone manager

• Marine conservation officer

• Environmental impact assessor

• Aquaculture research assistant

• Marine pollution analyst

• Climate and ocean data specialist

Industries That Hire

• Marine research institutions

• Environmental conservation agencies

• Aquaculture and fisheries

• Government departments (oceans & coasts)

• Ports and coastal engineering firms

• Climate and environmental monitoring bodies

• Marine tourism & education centres

Institutions Offering (South Africa)

(These offer marine science, oceanography, or related coastal studies)

• University of Cape Town

• University of KwaZulu-Natal

• Nelson Mandela University

• Stellenbosch University (marine-related environmental science)

• University of the Western Cape

• Rhodes University (Ichthyology & Fisheries Science)

• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (marine & environmental sciences)

• South African Environmental Observation Network (training & research)