What is Oceanography?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Updated on Mar 19, 2025 11:59 IST
Diya Nihalani

Diya NihalaniContent Author

Oceanography courses are designed to offer knowledge about a variety of elements of the ocean and its associated systems, which include the ocean's physical, chemical, biological, and geological characteristics. Oceanography also focuses on the marine organisms' habitats, microscopic plankton, fish, whales, and other animals.

Helpful Links for Oceanography Courses:

Oceanography Courses Details: Highlights

During the Oceanography course, Students get to understand the ocean and its importance to the Earth's system, as well as the tools and techniques for conducting research in this field. Listed below some of the key highlights of the Oceanography Courses for students' reference.

Parameters

Courses Details

Oceanography Course Level

UG, PG, Doctorate, and Certification

Oceanography Course Duration

UG: 3-4 Years

PG: 2 Years

Doctorate: 3-5 Years

Certification: 6 Months - 1 Year

Oceanography Course Fees

INR 4,950 to INR 2.8 Lakh

Oceanography Admission Procedure Merit and Entrance-Based

Oceanography Eligibility Criteria

Class 12 in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics subjects.

Oceanography Entrance Exams

CUET-PG and IIT JAM
Oceanography Colleges in India

Annamalai University, UoH, Alagappa University, Amity University Jaipur, Cochin University of Science and Technology, IIT Bhubaneswar etc.

Oceanography Jobs

Oceanographer, Ocean Freight Manager, Ocean Import Manager, Maintenance Assistant, Marine Biologist, Climate Specialist etc.

Oceanography Salary in India

INR 2.5 - 4.5 LPA

Oceanography Top Recruiters

Geological Survey of India, Meteorological Survey of India, Coal India, Mineral Exploration Authority, etc.

Disclaimer: This info. is taken from external sites and may vary.

Oceanography Courses: Useful Links:

Career Opportunities after Pursuing a PhD

 

Q:   What is oceanography?
A:
Hi Manisha, Oceanography is the study of the deep sea and shallow coastal oceans. 1. Biology. 2. Chemistry. 3. Geology and 4. Physics together make oceanography a richly interdisciplinary science. Although they contain most of the Earth's water and carbon and surface heat, and much of its biomass, the oceans do not operate alone. Together with the atmosphere continents and ice-cover, they form a working machine driven mostly by energy from the sun. Lesser amounts of energy derive from tides raised by the moon and sun and planets and heat from the Earth’s interior. Feel free to raise more questions. Appreciate by giving it thumbs up or marking as best. All the Best.
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Q:   What do Oceanographers do?
A:

An Oceanographer studies elements of the ocean like its physical, chemical, biological, and geological properties and its interactions with the atmosphere, land, and human activities. Their work involves both fieldwork and laboratory analysis, and they may specialize in different sub-disciplines within Oceanography. 

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Q:   What is the course of Oceanography all about?
A:

Studying the aspects of the oceans and how they are related to our planet is an exciting field of oceanography. Oceanography is a scientific field that covers a wide range of subjects, including marine biology, the physical characteristics of the ocean, and the effects of human activity on these enormous bodies of water. 

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Table of content
  • Oceanography Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process
  • Oceanography Entrance Exams: Schedule 2026
  • Oceanography Syllabus 2026
  • Oceanography Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Oceanography Colleges in India
  • Oceanography Career Scope: Salary, Job Profiles and Top Recruiters
  • Oceanography Course FAQs
  • Most Popular Courses
  • Popular Oceanography PG Courses
View More

Oceanography Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process

Candidates can check the table below to learn the eligibility criteria for Oceanography courses.

Oceanography Courses Level

Oceanography Eligibility Criteria 

UG

  • Class 12 in the Science stream
  • PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics)
  • Minimum 50% aggregate score.

PG

  • Bachelor's Degree in Oceanography or a related field such as Environmental Science, Marine Science, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, or Geology from a recognized university.
  • Minimum 50% aggregate score.

Doctorate

  • Master's degree in a relevant discipline.

Certification

  • Class 12 in the Science stream
  • PCM (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics)
  • Minimum 50% aggregate score.

Note: This information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

Suggested Oceanography Course Readings:

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Oceanography Admission Process

Candidates can check the admission process for the Oceanography courses in India:

  1. Conduct personal-level research and know the eligibility for the UG or PG courses and the college you are aiming for.
  2. One should also know if the admission requires appearing in any entrance; if yes, then choose the exam accordingly.
  3. Register, prepare, and appear for the said exam/s accepted or conducted by the college you're aiming for, then wait for the results.
  4. Apply to the universities/ colleges by filling out the application/ registration form
  5. Candidates are then shortlisted based on their scores/ ranks, which are uploaded on the official websites of the exam bodies.
  6. One should fill out the choice forms, attend the counselling sessions, and stay updated with the latest notifications.
  7. Get done with things like fee payment, document verification, and other formalities to start your academic journey.

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Q:   What are the BSc Oceanography eligibility criteria?
A:

Hi, you need to pass Class 12 in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects from a recognised board. The Class 12 may vary depending on the colleges' requirements.

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Q:   Can I study Oceanography after Class 10?
A:

No, you cannot pursue a course in Oceanography after Class 10 as the minimum requirement to pursue an Oceanography course is to have PCM in Class 12. Till Class 10, students study all the subjects in the base form and after Class 10, they choose a specific stream in which they foresee their careers.

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Oceanography Entrance Exams: Schedule 2026

Entrance exams for Oceanography courses may vary depending on the course level and college. Candidates can check the table below to learn about the entrance exam scores that are accepted for Oceanography courses.

Oceanography Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Details

IIT JAM 2026

Feb 2026

IIT JAM Exam Date 2026

CUSAT CAT 2026

May 2026

CUSAT CAT Exam Date 2026

CUET-PG 2026

March 2026

CUET-PG Exam Date 2026

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

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20 Aug ' 25 - 21 Aug ' 25

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14 Aug ' 25

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Q:   What to do after M.Sc. Oceanography.
A:
An oceanographer studies the ocean. Biological oceanographers and marine biologists study plants and animals in the marine environment. They are interested in the numbers of marine organisms and how these organisms develop, relate to one another, adapt to their environment, and interact with it.

Oceanography Syllabus 2026

The Oceanography syllabus deals not only with the details of the theoretical aspects but also the various techniques and methodologies. The table below will give candidates a basic idea about the subjects covered in Oceanography courses.

Candidates can check the table below to see the semester-wise syllabus of Oceanography courses.

Oceanography Courses - Semester 1
Physical Meteorology    Physical and Dynamical Climatology  
Dynamical Climatology   Marine Ecosystems
Oceanography Courses - Semester 2
Dynamical Oceanography    Synoptic Meteorology      
Advanced Dynamical Meteorology  Seawater Properties
Oceanography Courses - Semester 3
Air-Sea Interaction Cloud Physics        
Numerical Weather Prediction Observational Techniques
Oceanography Courses - Semester 4
Climate Modelling Satellite Meteorology  
Agricultural and Hydrometeorology  Tropical Meteorology

Note: This information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

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Q:   Which are the courses available in Oceanography?
A:

Oceanography courses are offered at various levels such as UG, PG, Doctorate, and Certification. Bachelor of Science in Oceanography, Bachelor of Technology in Ocean Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology, Diploma in Oceanography, M.Sc in Oceanography, M.Sc in Marine Science, etc., are some of the top courses available in Oceanography. 

Q:   What is taught in Oceanography courses?
A:

Hi, Oceanographers study the seas, its coastline, estuaries, coastal waters, shelves and the ocean bed. The study is used for preparation of maps, charts and graphs as well as research and development activities in all branches of ocean science for use in subsequent technology development. Oceanographers conduct surveys for locating nonliving and living resources, for preservation, conservation and protection of the environment and marine resources and for exploration and scientific work. For more details, 

Oceanography Colleges in India

The colleges mentioned in this section offer both BSc and MSc courses in this specialization. UoH, Alagappa University, Cochin University of Science and Technology, and Annamalai University are some popular government colleges offering Oceanography courses.

Best Government Oceanography Colleges

9 government colleges offer Oceanography courses in India.  Candidates can check these popular government colleges that offer Oceanography courses in the table below.

Government Oceanography Colleges

Tuition Fee

University of Hyderabad 

INR 13,540

Alagappa University

INR 12,700

Cochin University of Science and Technology

INR 4,950

Annamalai University

INR 52,590 - 62,590

Mangalore University

INR 6,320

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology 

INR 1.6 Lakh

IIT Bhubaneswar 

INR 26,000

Berhampur University

INR 16,420

Andhra University, Visakhapatnam

INR 2.8 Lakh

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

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Best Private Oceanography Colleges

There are 2 private Oceanography colleges in India. Candidates can check these popular private colleges that offer Oceanography in the table below.

Private Oceanography Colleges

Tuition Fee

Amity University, Jaipur

INR 1.6 Lakh - 2.52 Lakh

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

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1.62 L - 2.52 L

#152 NIRF

Oceanography Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
14.9 K
6.5 LPA

#48 NIRF

1 Course
2.8 L
6.7 LPA
1 Course
6.24 K
4.94 LPA

#18 NIRF

4.0
4.0
57.8 K - 68.8 K
5.13 LPA

#38 NIRF

Q:   Which are the best colleges that offer Oceanography in India?
A:

There are only 12 Oceanography Colleges in India, of which, 2 are private and 10 are government insitutions. These colleges offer Oceanography courses on various levels and specializations including Biological Oceanography, Chemical Oceanography, Physical Oceanography, Marine Ecology, etc. 

Some top Oceanography Colleges in India include University of Hyderabad, Alagappa University, Andhra University, and IIT Bhubaneswar

Q:   What is the fee for Oceanography courses in India?
A:

The Oceanography course fees in India vary from college to college depending on the course level and specialisation offered, campus infrastructure, placement records, etc. The average course fee ranges between INR 4,950 to INR 2.8 Lakh.

Popular Private Oceanography Colleges in India

1.62 L - 2.52 L

#152 NIRF

Oceanography Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
14.9 K
6.5 LPA

#48 NIRF

1 Course
2.8 L
6.7 LPA
1 Course
6.24 K
4.94 LPA

#18 NIRF

4.0
4.0
57.8 K - 68.8 K
5.13 LPA

#38 NIRF

Oceanography Career Scope: Salary, Job Profiles and Top Recruiters

The demand for students who studied Oceanography courses is projected to increase due to concerns like climate change and exploration of the marine biodiversity. This section will shed light on the salaries after Oceanography courses.

Oceanography Salary in India

Candidates can check the table below to see the possible job profiles and the average salary offered in India after Oceanography courses.

Job Profiles

Job Description

Average Salary

Ocean Engineer

Develops equipment for use in the ocean, such as submarines.

INR 13 LPA

Climate Specialist

Uses computer models to simulate and predict changes in ocean dynamics.

INR 9 LPA

Coastal Zone Manager

Protect and manage the coastal areas, which are often vulnerable to erosion & pollution.

INR 9 LPA

Marine Biologist

Researches and conducts detailed studies on marine life and its components. 

INR 6 LPA

Oceanographer

Researches and conducts detailed studies on physical properties, currents, temperature, and salinity.

INR 3 LPA

Marine Geologist 

Investigate the geological features of the ocean floor.

INR 7 LPA

Note: The salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

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Oceanography Top Recruiters 

Oceanography is a highly specialised field that combines Physics, Geology, Chemistry, and Biology. There are several top recruiters interested in hiring talented oceanographers. Career opportunities come in both governmental and private organizations. 

Candidates can check the table below to know the top recruiters hiring graduates of Oceanography courses. 

Oceanography Top Recruiters

Geological Survey of India

Meteorological Survey of India

Central Groundwater Board

Coal India

Mineral Exploration Authority

Oil & Natural Gas Corporation

Note: This info. is taken from the official website and may differ.

Q:   What is the salary of Oceanographer in India?
A:

Oceanography students can find career opportunities in various industries and sectors that are related to the study and exploration of the oceans. The average salary of an Oceanographer is INR 6.8 LPA in India. However, the salary package also depends on relevant experience, skillset, job location, employer, etc.

Q:   Is Oceanography a good career?
A:

Oceanography is a good career if you are passionate about the ocean and its mysteries. There has been a growing demand for professionals in this field, as the importance of the preservation of Marine Biology and oceans is increasing.

Oceanography Course FAQs

Candidates can refer to this section for Oceanography course FAQs. 

Q:   Which are the best Oceanography books to read?
A:

There are many popular and useful Oceanography books that offer an in-depth knowledge about oceans. Here are some of them:

Popular Oceanography BooksAuthor Names
Essentials of OceanographyHarold V. Thurman
Oceanography: An Invitation to Marine ScienceTom Garrison
A textbook of oceanographyJ. Travis Jenkins
The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the OceanSusan Casey
At Every Depth: Our Growing Knowledge of the Changing OceansEric Simons
Q:   What is Argo Oceanography?
A:

Argo is a global programme for Oceanographic research. It monitors temperature, salinity, and currents using profiling floats. Ocean bio-optical properties have recently been observed. It started functioning in the early 2000s. Its real-time data support oceanographic and climate research.

Q:   What do candidates study in an Oceanography course?
A:

Oceanography courses are also related to various other subjects like Geology, Physics, Meteorology and Geography. The study of marine flora and fauna and judging their consumption and worthiness is also a part of the Oceanography courses.

The main branches of Oceanography courses include biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, physical oceanography and geological oceanography. 

As an Oceanographer, candidates will mostly find themselves working on a ship or a coastal base but there will also be plenty of time spent in the laboratory for data interpretation.

Many Oceanography graduates are also engaged in studies to predict the impact of increased carbon dioxide, depletion of the ozone layer, effect of fertilizers, fossil fuels and other items on oceans. Oceanography courses are a perfect blend of scientific research and application of the same in the fields of Geography.3 and Technology. 

Q:   Why should I study Oceanography Courses?
A:
  • Secrets of Marine Life: Oceanography courses delve into marine biology, exploring the diverse ecosystems and showcasing the incredible array of plant and animal species residing beneath the waves. 

  • Knowledge about Earth: By studying oceanography, individuals develop a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's dynamic processes and contribute to valuable research in this field.

  • Career Opportunities: Oceanography courses open up a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can find employment in various sectors such as environmental consulting, marine research, coastal management, fisheries, and even government organizations. 

Q:   What is the scope of Oceanography?
A:
The need of study of various oceans is present in our world that is why the demand of oceanographers is increasing day after day. The oceanographers, study the ocean waters and their effects on sea life, the weather and many others. The oceanographers can work in the fields ranging from conservation to the oil industry. Job duties vary depending on the specialization in this field of courses. A good place for an eligible oceanographer is to start from Bachelor’s degree and relevant work experience in particular. The demand for jobs arises from the need for environmental protection and water management. All the best.

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular Oceanography courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in Oceanography.

Popular Oceanography PG Courses

Following are the most popular Oceanography PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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