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One planet..Your Future - Ocean and Earth Science Careers

The Earth is a complex and dynamic system, involving an interplay between oceanic, atmospheric and geological processes.

These linked processes, and an ever-increasing influence from mankind, have profound effect on global environmental and climatic change. It is only through studying subjects such as geology, geophysics and oceanography that we will gain a better knowledge of our planet and the natural processes at work. In this way we will be able to understand the Earth�s past and more accurately be able to predict its future.

The School of Ocean and Earth Science (SOES) at the University of Southampton provides the ideal place for the study of ocean and earth science in the friendly and informal world-class environment of the Southampton Oceanography Centre (SOC). The SOC is the most prestigious institute of its kind in Europe and is home to 450 research scientists and academics. Having achieved Grade 5 for research, and �excellent� for teaching, the 2002 Times Good University Guide ranked Southampton in the top 5 for Geology, Oceanography and Environmental Science undergraduate degrees.

What subjects can I study?

Geology

An applied science that integrates many scientific disciplines in the study of the nature, dynamics and evolution of the physical, chemical and biological processes operating on the Earth. The economics and environmental consequences associated with harnessing and exploiting mineral and energy resources are of increasing relevance to modern society, and natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes and flooding have global significance.

Geophysics

Is the application of physical methods to understanding both how the Earth works, and the identification of sub-surface mineral and energy resources. Other applications include imaging the Earth�s core, monitoring and predicting earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and for archaealogical site surveys.

Oceanography

Is a highly interdisciplinary science, with students admitted from a diverse range of scientific backgrounds, including biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology, geography, maths and physics. The oceans are fundamentally important to us, as we not only use them as a source of food, energy, and minerals but they have a key role in controlling the planet�s climate. It is now an environment which is increasingly under pressure through human activity. Applications of oceanography extend from prediction of storm surges and tidal waves, to management of fishery stocks.

It is now increasingly clear that the global biological and chemical systems on the earth are inextricably linked. Disturb one system and the effects can be profound in human terms. It is crucial that we understand this system given the disastrous consequences of the uncontrolled release of carbon dioxide. To this end, there are new degree courses being offered under the broad heading of Ocean & Earth System Science which study how the oceans, atmosphere and solid earth are integrated in a single dynamic system.

In addition to traditional three-year Bachelor degree programmes, four-year undergraduate Masters courses in most of these areas provide students with a comprehensive and rigorous education in all aspects of the subject concerned, especially for those seeking to enter research orientated careers in industry or academia. All programmes incorporate a substantial amount of project work, and are supported by professional bodies.

Fancy travelling the world?

Fieldwork and practical research skills are embedded in all courses in ocean and earth science, and give substantial opportunity for overseas travel and study. Collaborative and independent research, whether in the laboratory or in the field, comprise a vital part of the training. During such work you will acquire the essential practical and interpretative skills relevant to future employment.

So what comes next?

Degrees in the Ocean and Earth sciences are a passport to a wide variety of relevant careers. Employers range from environmental agencies, coastal management and geophysical survey companies, oil and mining companies, geological service companies, local authorities, the engineering industry, energy companies and the water industry. Alternatively the personal and transferable skills gained in a broad-based science degree open up a wide variety of other employment opportunities.

Authors:
Ian Harding (Dr.) Senior Lecturer in Palaeontology and Assistant Dean of Science
John Marshall (Dr.) Reader in Palaeontology