Graduate Diploma in Physical Oceanography

Program Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Physical Oceanography equips graduates with specialized knowledge in physical oceanography, environmental data science, and modeling. Developed in collaboration with the Royal Australian Navy, the program emphasizes industry-relevant skills and prepares graduates for careers in the Blue Economy, encompassing industries related to the ocean and marine environment.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Graduate Diploma in Physical Oceanography provides specialized training in physical oceanography, preparing graduates for careers in the Blue Economy.
The program was developed in collaboration with the Royal Australian Navy and emphasizes industry-relevant skills and knowledge.
• Objectives: The program aims to equip graduates with a deep understanding of the physical processes of the ocean, quantitative skills, and expertise in environmental data statistics, modeling, and analysis.
• Program Description: The program combines theoretical foundations in physical oceanography with practical training in data acquisition, analysis, and modeling.
Graduates will develop a comprehensive understanding of ocean dynamics, climate systems, and marine environmental science.

Outline:

• Content: The program covers advanced topics in physical oceanography, including:
• Oceanographic Processes
• Prediction and Inverse Modelling
• Environmental Data Science and Statistics
• Fluids, Oceans, and Climate
• Data Analysis: Environmental Science and Management
• Climate Systems Science
• Fundamentals of Data Science
• Computational Mathematics for Science and Engineering
• Topics in Marine Biology and Ecology
• Topics in Australian Marine Science
• Principles of Geographic Information Systems and Science
• Advanced Geographic Information Systems and Science
• Structure: The program consists of 48 units of credit (UOC), including:
• 30 UOC of advanced disciplinary courses
• 18 UOC of foundational courses
• Course Schedule: The program is offered in a flexible format, with study options available via distance (online with some face-to-face components) or face-to-face (including blended learning).
• Modules:
• Oceanographic Processes:
Explores the fundamental physical processes governing the ocean, including waves, currents, tides, and mixing.
• Prediction and Inverse Modelling: Focuses on techniques for predicting ocean behavior and estimating parameters from observational data.
• Environmental Data Science and Statistics: Provides training in data collection, analysis, and statistical modeling for environmental applications.
• Fluids, Oceans, and Climate: Examines the interactions between the ocean, atmosphere, and climate system.
• Data Analysis: Environmental Science and Management: Covers advanced statistical methods and data analysis techniques used in environmental science.
• Climate Systems Science: Investigates the dynamics and interactions of the Earth's climate system.
• Fundamentals of Data Science: Introduces the core concepts and techniques of data science, including data mining, machine learning, and visualization.
• Computational Mathematics for Science and Engineering: Provides a foundation in computational mathematics and numerical methods for solving scientific and engineering problems.
• Topics in Marine Biology and Ecology: Explores the diversity and ecology of marine organisms and ecosystems.
• Topics in Australian Marine Science: Focuses on the unique characteristics and challenges of marine science in Australia.
• Principles of Geographic Information Systems and Science: Introduces the principles and applications of geographic information systems (GIS) in environmental science.
• Advanced Geographic Information Systems and Science: Provides advanced training in GIS techniques and applications.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Examinations
• Assignments
• Projects
• Presentations
• Research papers
• Assessment Criteria: Assessments are based on the following criteria:
• Understanding of concepts and principles
• Analytical and critical thinking skills
• Problem-solving abilities
• Communication and presentation skills
• Technical proficiency

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program is taught using a range of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical exercises
• Fieldwork
• Research projects
• Faculty: The program is taught by leading academics and researchers in physical oceanography, environmental science, and data science.
• Unique Approaches: The program incorporates industry-relevant case studies, guest lectures from experts in the field, and opportunities for internships or research projects with industry partners.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the program are qualified for roles in:
• Oceanographic research
• Environmental consulting
• Marine resource management
• Data science and analytics
• Education and outreach
• Policy and regulation
• Opportunities: The program provides graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in the growing Blue Economy, which encompasses industries related to the ocean and marine environment.
• Outcomes: Graduates will be highly sought after by employers in government, industry, and academia, due to their expertise in physical oceanography, environmental data science, and modeling.