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and ocean engineering designs
equipment and systems to be used in making oceanographic
measurements. It is also engaged in research along with
the other- scientists involved in oceanography.
Research
in oceanography may include various diverse issues such
as actively spreading mid-ocean ridges, analysis of lava
of underwater volcanoes, or, assessment of the
feasibility of mineral and chemical extraction from the
ocean basin. Development for environmental technology to
remove toxic contaminants and other pollutants from the
ocean water is another important area of research.
To
be successful in oceanography, you should have an
inquisitive mind and a love for adventure. It is an
interdisciplinary science. So, you should have adequate
knowledge of various subjects like chemistry, earth
science, biology, physics, computer science, and
mathematics. The best option would be a degree in ocean
engineering (BTech/MTech) or BTech in ocean engineering
& naval architecture.
It is not
possible in India to study BSc in oceanography; instead,
you can get a Bachelors degree in physical science,
biological, geology or civil/construction engineering
and then specialize in oceanography at the postgraduate
or doctoral level.
Alternatively,
after your BSc/ BE, you can do MSc / ME / MTech in
marine biology, marine biotechnology, marine geology,
marine science, marine zoology, botany, marine
geophysics, applied geophysics, ocean engineering,
marine technology or geotechnology to work in the field
of oceanography. It would be even better if you have a
PhD in oceanography.
You
may wonder about the employment opportunities in this
area! Well, globally, employment opportunities are
increasing at a modest rate of five to six per cent per
annum. A high premium is being put on using oceanic
studies in forecasting climatic, conditions, making
oceans polluted free to maintain ecological balance.
Developing systems for using marine life, as major
source of food is also becoming very important. In
India, apart from some work on the above fields,
oceanographers are increasingly finding opportunities in
petroleum exploration and extraction from sea basins. If
you want to have a high profile career in oceanography,
you may have to look for opportunities in USA after a
Ph.D. from a US university.
With
a degree in one of the many branches of ocean sciences
you can look for a job in the department of clean
development, Government of India, concerned with the
ocean environment, marine resources, and the ocean’s
strategic importance for national defence. Geological
Survey of India and research institutions like National
Institute of oceanography, have limited posts of
research fellows and lectures.
Careers in
private industries are also available, primarily in
petrochemical and petroleum engineering in companies
like ONGC (Oil & Nature Gas Commission), Essar Oil,
Reliance Industries Ltd.
In
governments departments and agencies, the starting salary
after your MSc can be in the range or Rs 6,500 to Rs
8,000 per month depending on the nature of the job.
In the private sector, the salary can be slightly higher.
The same is true for research institutions. After for
research institutions after your Ph.D., you can begin
with about Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000 per month.
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