SEA5011F - Operational Oceanography Coursework

50 credits at NQF level 9

Entry Requirements:

A relevant Honours degree (or equivalent). Students with backgrounds in scientific and engineering disciplines are encouraged to apply. Co-requisites: This course is a component of the Applied Ocean Sciences Master's coursework (refer to BIO5012W). Co-requisites are BIO5013F and minor dissertation code chosen from the ones listed in the BIO5012W handbook. Changes in the dissertation code are allowed according to the student background and prior to consultation with the course conveners.

Course Outline:

This course consists of an investigation of an approved topic chosen for intensive study by the candidate (student), culminating in the submission of a dissertation. The dissertation shall demonstrate the successful completion of a programme of training in research methods, a thorough understanding of the scientific principles underlying the research and an appropriate acquaintance with the relevant literature. It must be clearly presented and conform to the standards of the department and faculty. The dissertation will usually consist of a report detailing the conduct, and analysis of the results of, research performed under the close guidance of a suitably qualified supervisor/s. The dissertation should be well-conceived and acknowledge earlier research in the field. It should demonstrate the ability to undertake a substantial and informed piece of research, and to collect, organise and analyse material. General rules for this degree may be found in the front of the handbook. Convener: Associate Professor M Vichi Course outline: This course is comprised of 4 modules focusing on the usage and provision of marine services that describe the ocean physical and biogeochemical state through observational and modeling components. The course covers the global ocean and coastal observing systems, the usage of ocean diagnostics and climate indicators as well as an introduction to the major monitoring techniques for physical and biogeochemical oceanography. Qualified students will have the possibility of participating to an open ocean research cruise in July. In addition, students will choose at least two elective courses, chosen from a range of modules offered in both disciplinary streams. They provide the student the opportunity to explore new areas, or look at more specific disciplinary backgrounds in the vast subject of ocean sciences. The list and details of these courses will be made available at the opening of each registration period in the BIO5012W handbook on the Marine and Antarctic Research Centre for Innovation and Sustainability (MARIS) website.