Physical Oceanography, 120 HEC

Motions on all scales are interacting in the oceans, from circulation systems on global to turbulence on small scales. Physical oceanography is based on theory and methods from classical mechanics and thermodynamics which are applied to describe, analyze and understand processes and circulation in the ocean.

Physical oceanographers work with a wide spectrum of methods, from observations in the sea using instruments based on latest technology, via advanced methods to analyse observational data, to simulation of processes and circulation using mathematical models. This education prepares the student both for postgraduate studies as well as for work in the industry.

Subject-matter

The master program includes two obligatory courses, Oceanographic models, 15 hec, and Mixing in the sea, 15 hec, respectively, and thesis work, 30-60 hec. Remaining credits, 30-60 hec, are chosen by the student from advanced bachelor and postgraduate courses.

Oceanographic models

After this course the student will be able to make their own models of aquatic system such as lakes and ocean basins. From geophysical fluid dynamics the equations are introduced and different kinds of models are discussed. The student is then introduced into numerical modeling of turbulence, heat and salt balances, sea ice, lakes, coastal seas and coupled basins.

Mixing in the sea

The main processes that cause mixing of different water masses are presented. Examples are convection and wind generated mixing in the surface layer, friction generated mixing at the bottom, and internal wave mixing away from boundaries. The course contains a field experiment part where turbulence and mixing is quantified with modern observational and analysis techniques.

Master thesis

Physical oceanography is a vivid research area at the department of Earth sciences. Several active researchers may act as supervisors. Thesis work may also be supervised by external researchers at industry and public institutions.

Entrance requirements

Bachelors degree in Oceanography of 180 hec at an accredited (internationally recognized) university including at least 90 hec in Oceanography or in any of the subjects meteorology, physics or mathematics together with at least 60 hec mathematics or mathematics and physics. Applicants must prove knowledge in English by one of the following: TOEFL test result of at least 600 points (computerized 250 points, on Internet 100 points) or IELTS test result of at least 6.5 including at least 6.5 for writing. This requirement does not apply to students with a Bachelors degree from an English speaking university or to students having passed English level B at Swedish/Nordic Upper Secondary School.

Selection: Selection is based upon the number of credit points from previous university studies, maximum 225 hec.

Start/term

Autumn 2012, full time (100%)

Application

There is one intake per year and the semester starts in September. Final application date for the academic year 2012/2013 is 16th of January 2012.

Application fee: 900 SEK (Does not apply for EU/EEA citizens or exchange students).
Tuition fee: Full programme cost 260 000 SEK. First payment 65 000 SEK. Tuition fee does not apply for EU/EEA citizens or exchange students.
Application international students: Closed for late application.
Application Swedish/EU/EEA citizens: Apply here

Further information on how to apply: www.universityadmissions.se