Master of Physical Oceanography

The Master of Physical Oceanography offers advanced training in the theory and understanding of physical processes in the ocean. The program is ideal for graduates who have a background in science, engineering or cognate disciplines.

The master's program will enhance your employment opportunities by equipping you with a range of skills demanded by employers in Australia’s growing Blue Economy. This program offers advanced disciplinary courses designed to reflect current practices in the field of physical oceanography, within the framework of academic knowledge and critical thinking. Each course aims to build your capacity to investigate, analyse and synthesise complex or conflicting information in a timely fashion.

Learn with the best
We’re ranked 1st in Australia and 38th in the world for mathematics.* As Australia’s largest and highest ranked school of mathematics and statistics, we provide comprehensive coverage of modern mathematics, underpinned by leading teaching and research.

Leverage our industry connections
Tap into our network of industry and research partners to start building your own professional connections. The School of Mathematics and Statistics maintains and attracts strong links with industry, from ongoing research collaboration to industry involvement in our teaching activities.

Our researchers work in partnership with industry to solve real-world problems. This collaboration with industry includes Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Grants held by members of staff. Our industry links extend to our learning and teaching activities, with industry partners sponsoring some of our courses and degrees. Other links with industry are maintained through visiting appointments, consulting services offered by our staff and ongoing connections with our alumni.

^{*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021}

The minimum entry requirement is a bachelor’s (pass) degree with a minimum weighted average mark of 70% or equivalent in a cognate discipline (oceanography, meteorology, physics, science, mathematics, statistics, engineering etc.) from a recognised tertiary institution.

Students must have a minimum of 12 UOC in Level 2 mathematics (equivalent to UNSW's MATH2018/9 and MATH2089, for example) or equivalent training/experience.

Students currently enrolled in the UNSW Graduate Diploma of Physical Oceanography are also able to apply to articulate into the Master of Physical Oceanography program, subject to meeting minimum academic performance requirements of a 70+ WAM.

The following cohorts may be eligible for recognition of prior learning up to 24 UoC:

1. Graduates of an Advanced Mathematics, Advanced Science or Honours degree in a cognate discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.

2. Students who have completed a relevant advanced degree in a cognate discipline; for example the Australian Bureau of Meteorology's Graduate Diploma in Meteorology.

In addition, you must have permission of the Head of School or Nominee to be admitted into the program.