Ocean Sciences (BSc)(BA)
Explore the science of the oceans and their ecosystems.
Why choose this program?
Learn how the ocean connects people across the world! Steps away from the Atlantic Ocean, Dalhousie has a global reputation for excellence in ocean education and research. When you study ocean sciences at Dalhousie, you’ll combine knowledge in the biological, chemical, geological and physical processes that make up ocean ecosystems.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
Admission requirements of the faculty offering the chosen degree apply. For example, for a BSc Double Major, prospective students would be subject to the admission requirements of the Faculty of Science. See Admission Requirements section of the Academic Calendar for each Faculty.
Financial information
A university education is a significant financial investment. Every student is unique, and so are their financial circumstances. We offer competitive tuition, a robust scholarship and bursary program, and resources and support to help you explore financial options and develop a plan that works for you.
Program options
Students can enroll in an Honours program for a more in-depth background in Ocean Sciences and an independent research experience. In combination with a BSc in Ocean Sciences, students may obtain one or more certificate(s).
The following Ocean Sciences program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
Bachelor of Science with Concentrated Honours in Ocean Sciences
Bachelor of Science with Combined Honours in Ocean Sciences
Bachelor of Science with Major or Double Major in Ocean Sciences
Minor in Ocean Sciences
What you will learn
There’s no better place to learn about the ocean than on the edge of the Atlantic at Dalhousie University. The Ocean Sciences degree is designed to prepare you to tackle some of society’s most exciting ocean opportunities and pressing environmental challenges. You'll get your feet wet in the lab and field, use world-class research facilities, and take part in field courses at sea, such as the Introduction to Field Oceanography course.
Sample courses may include:
Conversations with Ocean Scientists: Part I
Writing for the Sciences
Integrated Science I
The Blue Planet I
Tools and Concepts in Ocean Sciences I
Climate Change
The Last Billion Years
Geochemistry of Aquatic Environments
Introduction to Physical Oceanography
Geological Oceanography
Oceans and Global Change
Time Series Analysis in Oceanography and Meteorology
During your first year you’ll take introductory, foundation-building science courses. In your upper years, you'll gain a broad perspective on the role of ocean sciences in policy, law, and other topics. You’ll also get first-hand experience in many of the exciting technological innovations that are transforming our ability to observe the ocean.
Careers
Rapid scientific and technological advances in a variety of fields are accelerating the growth of the global ocean economy. Dalhousie’s ocean sciences program qualifies you for entry level or technician positions in a variety of exciting fields.
An undergraduate degree in ocean sciences is a strong foundation for pursuing master’s and professional degrees, such as Master of Science (MSc), Master of Marine Management (MMM), Master of Resource and Environmental Management (MREM), Master of Business Administration, law and ocean technology.
