Bachelor Of Science - Oceanography (Co-op) (Honours)

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Oceanography at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a comprehensive program that delves into the study of our oceans, including their circulation, physical and chemical properties, and the diverse life forms they support. This program emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of oceanography, integrating knowledge from biology, physics, chemistry, and geology. Students will explore how the ocean interacts with global climate and impacts human communities, preparing them to address critical challenges such as sustainable food supply and environmental management.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Science in Oceanography is structured to provide a robust educational experience over a 4-year period. The program includes:

• Optional Co-op: Students can combine their studies with full-time, paid work at leading local and international organizations.
• Honours Option: Students have the opportunity to pursue intense specialization in a single field, preparing them for graduate studies or advanced careers.
• Combined Major or Combined Honours: Students can pair Oceanography with other science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Geophysics, Microbiology and Immunology, or Physics.

This structure ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, equipping them for various career paths in oceanography and related fields.

Featured Experiences

• Access to UBC's Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, which provides cutting-edge research opportunities.
• Involvement with the Marine Mammal Research Unit (MMRU) and Project Seahorse, enhancing practical learning.
• Participation in the Pacific Centre for Isotopic and Geochemical Research (PCIGR) for advanced studies.
• Engagement in the Ocean Dynamics Laboratory, focusing on current oceanographic research topics.
• Field courses that allow students to develop and conduct their own research programs.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Oceanography can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Oceanographer Researcher: Conducts research on oceanic processes and contributes to scientific knowledge about marine environments.
• Ecological Monitoring Technician: Works with organizations like Parks Canada to monitor and assess ecological health and biodiversity.
• PhD Candidate in Fishery Ecology: Engages in advanced studies and research at institutions such as UBC's Institute for Oceans and Fisheries.
• Research Marine Biologist: Acts as a biological consultant, studying marine life and ecosystems for organizations like Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
• Species-at-Risk Biologist: Focuses on the conservation and management of endangered marine species at research institutes like the Bedford Institute of Oceanography.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.