Program Overview

Graduate Certificate in Underwater Acoustics

The Graduate Certificate in Underwater Acoustics provides advanced training in sound propagation, sensing, and analysis in the ocean. With applications in national defense, offshore renewable energy, and marine environmental protection, this 12-credit program equips engineers, oceanographers, and other professionals with specialized expertise to meet industry and research needs.

Program Overview

The program is designed for working professionals and researchers across the country, offering flexible, graduate-level training that can advance their career or serve as a pathway to further study. The Department of Ocean Engineering at the University of Rhode Island is uniquely positioned to offer this program, with hybrid course availability, strong faculty expertise, and strong collaborations with the Graduate School of Oceanography.

Curriculum

The Graduate Certificate in Underwater Acoustics is a 12-credit program that combines core knowledge with advanced electives. All students take an introductory course in underwater acoustics to learn the principles of sound propagation and its applications, then select three electives in areas such as:

• Sonar design
• Data analysis
• Acoustic transducers
• Bioacoustics
• Propagation The required course is:
• OCE 571 – Underwater Acoustics I Students select three courses from the following options:
  • OCE 472 – Sonar Systems Design
  • OCE 555 – Modern Oceanographic Imaging and Mapping Techniques
  • OCE 561 – Introduction to the Analysis of Oceanographic Data
  • OCE 572 – Underwater Acoustic Transducers
  • OCE 575 – Marine Bioacoustics
  • OCE 661 – Analysis of Oceanographic Data Systems
  • OCE 672 – Underwater Acoustics II
  • OCE 673 – Advanced Course in Underwater Acoustic Propagation

Admission and Cost

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, mathematics, or science discipline.

Application Requirements

• Please refer to the Graduate School for application requirements and deadlines.

Tuition & Fees

• Tuition and fees for graduate programs at the University of Rhode Island can be found in the University Academic Catalog.