Chemical oceanographers study chemical processes in seawater to determine the effects of pollutants on marine environments. High school preparation in chemistry, biology, and physics is necessary, and a bachelor’s degree is usually the minimum requirement. Advanced training at the master’s or doctoral level is often necessary, and research internships are usually required.
Chemical oceanographers study and analyze chemical processes in seawater to determine the effects of various pollutants on marine environments. To become a chemical oceanographer, you must begin preparing for this career in high school by completing courses in chemistry, biology, and physics. There are several formal educational paths into this occupation, but completion of a bachelor’s degree is usually the minimum requirement. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, some type of research internship is usually required to gain hands-on field experience prior to employment.
Generally, an extensive amount of education is required to become a chemical oceanographer and career preparation should begin in high school if possible. Basic chemistry, biology, and physics courses must be completed to provide a proper foundation for future college training. You should also take math and computer science classes in preparation for this career. It’s a good idea to dedicate some of your time to studying aquatic environments in addition to your regular high school courses. If possible, join an organization of water sports enthusiasts, such as marine environmentalists, to gain additional exposure to this profession.
Advanced college training may be required for this career, but a bachelor’s degree will likely be enough to secure an entry-level position. Although specialized degrees in chemical oceanography are offered by some colleges, the primary purpose of your undergraduate degree is to prepare you for further training at the master’s or doctoral level. For this reason, you should focus your undergraduate degree on an essential science subject, such as chemistry, biology, or physics. Your bachelor’s degree should include some amount of laboratory training in addition to regular classroom instruction. Classes in interdisciplinary disciplines, such as advanced math and social science, can also increase your chances of undergraduate acceptance.
While a bachelor’s degree is sufficient to begin on-the-job training, most employers require the completion of a master’s degree before you can become a chemical oceanographer. Some chemical oceanographers also hold a doctorate to teach or conduct advanced research. This advanced training usually involves intensive instruction in subjects such as chemistry, hydrogeology and oceanography, as well as marine biology, geophysics and atmospheric science.
Advanced degree programs often offer some type of research internship in addition to traditional classroom training. During this internship, you will conduct a research project under the supervision of an experienced professional. Such research usually takes place in water and in the laboratory and often pertains to ecosystem management, offshore drilling or climate change. Hands-on experience gained from a research internship will enhance classroom instruction and professional curriculum.
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