Applied Ocean Science Curricular Program

Description

Applied Ocean Science is a multidisciplinary program focused on the application of advanced technology to ocean exploration and observation. Applied Ocean Science (AOS) students perform research in marine acoustics, optics, electromagnetics, geophysics, ecology, sediment transport, coastal processes, physical oceanography and air-sea interaction. The emphasis is on the resolution of key scientific issues through novel technological development. Students with a strong background in engineering, math, physics, chemistry, biology or geology are admissable to the program. On arrival at Scripps, early participation in an ongoing research project is encouraged. However, specialization and focus on a specific thesis topic is not required until the second or third year of the program.

The science focus of the Scripps AOS program is complemented by parallel Applied Ocean Science programs in both the Structural Engineering (SE) and Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Departments. Students have access to professors, courses and research facilities across all three departments.

Program of Study

The AOS academic program is designed to provide both a broad background and a core technical base to support the diverse interests and activities of the students. Required courses include SIO214, Continuum/Fluid Mechanics and SIO202A, B, a two-quarter introduction to Wave Physics. Two of the four SIO Introductory courses, (SIO210, 240, 260, 280) must be completed during the first year, with the remaining two courses required prior to passing the doctoral qualifying examination at the end of the third year. In addition, the applied math sequence, SIO203A, B or MAE294A, B is taken in either the first or second year of study. The AOS Seminar, SIO208, serves as a communications bridge across the program. Participation is required throughout the period of enrollment. Beyond these core courses, the majority of each student's academic program is tailored to individual interests.

The AOS Departmental Examination, held at the end of the first year, is based on the core technical courses, SIO214, SIO202A, B and two of the four introductory courses, chosen by the student. The examination has both oral and written components.