scholarlab.

Oceanographer

Also called Marine scientist.

Oceanographers study seas and currents, marine plants and animals, and the rocks and minerals that lie beneath the sea bed.

Potential salary
£23,000 starter to £45,000 experienced per year
Typical hours
37 to 42 variable. Working pattern: evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home.
Career area
Science and laboratory work
Where they might work
You could work in a laboratory, at a research facility or at sea. Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and you'll travel often. You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
A typical task
plan and carry out research expeditions around the UK and overseas
Subjects that may help
5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
Typical route
You can study for a degree in oceanography or a related subject, like:
Interest area used here
Asking questions and research, Making, fixing and working outdoors

Career actions

What you might do

  • plan and carry out research expeditions around the UK and overseas
  • collect water, sediment and rock samples and analyse data
  • analyse satellite data and observations to understand oceanic changes
  • build computer models of ocean currents and circulation patterns
  • create maps of the sea floor and underlying geology
  • monitor changes in seawater properties and marine life
More tasks (2)
  • write and present reports of your research findings
  • give lectures and lead oceanography students on field trips

Could this suit me?

Consider which of these skills and ways of working appeal to you.

  • knowledge of geography
  • maths knowledge
  • excellent written communication skills
  • analytical thinking skills
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
More skills
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Routes into this career

University route

  • You can study for a degree in oceanography or a related subject, like:
  • ocean science
  • geology
  • physics
  • marine science
  • biology or chemistry
  • environmental science
  • Employers often look for students with postgraduate qualifications, like a master's degree or PhD. They also value experience of working in marine science, engineering or oceanographic research.
  • You can get experience by choosing a course that includes work placements or internships with a marine company or research centre.
  • You can find marine companies and research organisations through the Society for Underwater Technology.
  • You'll usually need:
  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
  • 3 A levels, or equivalent, including at least 1 science
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
  • equivalent entry requirements
  • student finance for fees and living costs
  • university courses and entry requirements

University courses that could lead to this career

These are course families, not published offers. A link does not mean the degree is sufficient on its own.

  • Environmental science

    Alternative route. Only if marine systems are a real part of the degree.

  • Geology

    Alternative route. Marine geology is one corner of oceanography, not the whole subject.

  • Marine biology

    Alternative route. Relevant if the course includes physical or chemical ocean work. Oceanography degrees are closer for that title.

  • Oceanography

    Direct qualifying route. The closest title. Physics or mathematics plus postgraduate study is also a real route.

Explore university routes

Career progression
  • As your career develops you could become a project leader or manager. You might also wish to specialise in a particular field of oceanography, such as:
  • coastal modelling
  • sealife research and conservation
  • the impact of a changing climate on ocean currents
  • There are opportunities to work on research projects while studying for higher qualifications, for example, with the:
  • Marine Technology Education Consortium
  • Natural Environment Research Council
  • Interdisciplinary Southampton Partnership for Investigators Researching the Environment (INSPIRE)
  • There are also openings in higher education, working as a researcher or lecturer, and scientific journalism.

Subjects that may help

Subject guidance

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
  • 3 A levels, or equivalent, including at least 1 science
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

What you could do next