Chemical oceanographers investigate and analyze chemical processes in seawater in order to determine the impact of various pollutants on marine ecosystems. If you want to be a chemical oceanographer, you should start studying chemistry, biology, and physics in high school. There are a variety of formal educational paths available for this profession, but a bachelor’s degree is usually the minimum requirement. In addition to traditional classroom instruction, gaining practical field experience through a research internship is usually required prior to employment.
Chemical oceanographers typically need a lot of education, and career preparation should start in high school if at all possible. Basic chemistry, biology, and physics courses must be completed in order to lay a solid foundation for future college studies. In order to prepare for this career, you should take math and computer science classes. In addition to your regular high school courses, it is a good idea to devote some of your free time to studying aquatic environments. Join a group of aquatic enthusiasts, such as marine environmentalists, if possible, to gain more experience in this field.
Although advanced college training may be required for this career, an entry-level position will most likely require only a bachelor’s degree. Although some colleges offer specialized degrees in chemical oceanography, the primary goal of your undergraduate degree is to prepare you for master’s or doctoral studies. As a result, you should concentrate your undergraduate studies in a core science field like chemistry, biology, or physics. In addition to regular classroom instruction, your bachelor’s degree program should include some laboratory training. Interdisciplinary subjects like advanced mathematics and social science may also improve your chances of being accepted to graduate school.
Although a bachelor’s degree is sufficient to begin on-the-job training, most employers require a master’s degree before a chemical oceanographer can work. A doctoral degree is also pursued by some chemical oceanographers in order to teach or conduct advanced research. Intensive instruction in subjects such as chemistry, hydrogeology, and oceanography, as well as marine biology, geophysics, and atmospheric science, is typical of this advanced training.
In addition to traditional classroom instruction, most advanced degree programs include a research internship. You will conduct a research project under the supervision of an experienced professional during this internship. This type of research usually takes place on the water or in a lab and is focused on ecosystem management, off-shore drilling, or climate change. A research internship will improve your classroom instruction and professional resume by giving you hands-on experience.