The Oceanography at Old Dominion University is a PhD program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the university's main campus in Aberdeen, United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 4 years to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on August 28, 2027.

About PhD in Oceanography

The Ph.D degree follows the traditional path of original research in the field of oceanography. The emphasis areas are biological, chemical, geological, and physical oceanography, and the earth and geological sciences. Interdisciplinary studies are emphasized and an integral part of the student experience. The curricula are designed to prepare graduates for professional practice in their area of interest.

Faculty do active research from here in Hampton Roads to the Arctic and Antarctic
Many of our graduate students participate in sea-going research expeditions around the world
Our graduate students present their research at national conferences, including the American Geophysical Union, Ocean Sciences and the Geological Society of America meetings
Community building is a strong aspect of graduate life in our Department thanks to our active Graduate Student Organization

Disciplines

College of Sciences

Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Oceanography at Old Dominion University

Entry Requirements

Application and $50 fee
Equivalent U.S. Bachelor's Degree
All prior Secondary/High School or College/University transcripts along with Diploma or Leaving Certificate.
Demonstrated English Language Proficiency
Financial Documentation (seeking F/J visas only)
Passport identification
Requirements & deadlines vary by program
1. Standardized Test Results (GRE, GMAT, MAT, MCAT, PRAXIS)
2. Essay/Personal Statement/Resume
3. Letters of Recommendation

Send all materials & correspondence to

International Admissions
Old Dominion University
2101 Dragas Hall
Norfolk, VA 23529 USA

Required Credentials

As a service to applicants, the Office of International Admissions evaluates all foreign academic credentials. All documents submitted during the application process become the property of Old Dominion University and cannot be returned.

Transcripts, translations and standardized tests must be official, sealed, stamped by the institution or testing agency and sent directly to the Office of International Admissions at Old Dominion University.
Testing authorities may include the Registrar or the Principal/Controller of Examinations.
When English is not the language of instruction, academic transcripts are required in both English and one's native language. Certified official translations by a licensed or professional translator must accompany academic documents not written in English. Translations of official documents completed by the student will not be accepted.
Once submitted, no additional documents can be uploaded through the online application. If you wish to include additional credentials, attach and send them directly to [email protected]. Please be sure your name and date of birth are clearly indicated in the email subject line.

English Requirements

PTEMin 53
IELTSMin 6.5
TOEFLMin 79

Career Opportunities after Completing PhD in Oceanography

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn–half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary

$98,560 Median Salary

Teach courses in the physical sciences, except chemistry and physics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching, and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Natural Sciences Managers

$133,670 Median Salary

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.

Computer and Information Research Scientists

$119,570 Median Salary

Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.

Environmental Engineers

$91,180 Median Salary

Research, design, plan, or perform engineering duties in the prevention, control, and remediation of environmental hazards using various engineering disciplines. Work may include waste treatment, site remediation, or pollution control technology.

Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in Oceanography at Old Dominion University

Application Fee 50

How to Apply for PhD in Oceanography at Old Dominion University

Your Choice

The Common Application, which allows you to complete one application and designate it to be used for multiple institutions, OR the new Old Dominion University Application. The choice is yours.

Our Commitment

Whichever method you choose, the admissions staff at Old Dominion University is committed to processing your application in a timely manner. Questions concerning the admissions process may be directed to [email protected], 757-683-3685. Questions relative to The Common Application need to be directed to the Help Center found at commonapp.org

Old Dominion University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. Visit https://www.odu.edu/equity for more information.