Mathematics
Applied mathematics is a particularly useful field for making advances in theoretical physical oceanography, geophysics, and theoretical marine ecology.
Preparing in High School for majoring in Mathematics in college
- Take as many math courses as you can, including Algebra I and II, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus.
- Take computer classes. Computing skills including word processing and data analysis are very important.
- Take English, literature and speech classes.
Sample course requirements to earn a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics:
- Alabama State University
- Howard University – Applied Mathematics
- Yale College – Applied Mathematics
- University of California – Merced
Candidates for admission to graduate school should have a bachelor's (BS) or master's degree in a physical science or mathematics, including 3 years of mathematics and physics (differential equations, linear algebra, real analysis and numerical software are absolutely essential). A scholastic average 3.0 or better is expected.
Missing a required course? Don’t give up! Some programs will still accept new graduate students and then provide the opportunity to complete one or more courses to fill gaps in their education.
If you have the opportunity (either paid or volunteer) to participate in laboratory, field work or a research cruise during your undergraduate years, it will serve as good preparation for graduate work. Participating in an ocean Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) summer program is a great way to learn about ocean research and to meet faculty and graduate students involved in ocean science, policy and engineering graduate programs. REU programs provide stipends to cover expenses, and often students are able save some of their summer stipend money.
» Visit REU website
See Physics section for graduate school information.
What can you study?
- Modeling, simulations and prediction
- Informatics, including data collection, management and manipulation
- Statistical analyses
Potential careers
- Teaching
- Research
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
- Coastal and Civil Engineering
- Oil and natural gas industry
- Military (Navy, Army Corp of Engineers)
- U.S. Geological Survey
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Last updated: October 9, 2012