Program Overview

Ocean Futures, PhD

The Doctor of Philosophy program in Ocean Futures offers advanced doctoral training focused on comprehensively understanding intricate processes that govern the planet's global ocean, including threats to ecosystems and the human populations it supports. Students have the opportunity to learn from and work with leading scientists and conduct use-inspired research that works towards culturally appropriate solutions for local to global stewardship for the future ocean.

Program Description

The adaptable nature of the curriculum allows students to customize their electives based on their academic and professional goals. The flexibility enables them to leverage research and training opportunities by collaborating with scientific, professional, and local communities, as well as stakeholders and rights holders. Students build skills in context-specific and solutions-oriented research, data analysis, and communication, in turn supporting societal needs and the university's mission to enhance local impact and social embeddedness.

At a Glance

• College/school: College of Global Futures
• Location: Tempe
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

Degree Requirements

• 84 credit hours
• An oral comprehensive exam
• A written comprehensive exam
• A prospectus
• A dissertation
• Required core (6 credit hours)
  • SEA 501 Exploring Ocean Futures (3)
  • SEA 585 Graduate Ocean Futures Workshop (3)
• Electives (54 credit hours)
  • Research (12 credit hours)
    • SEA 792 Research (12)
  • Culminating Experience (12 credit hours)
    • SEA 799 Dissertation (12)
• Additional Curriculum Information
  • Students complete 54 credit hours of electives, nine of which are 500- and 600-level SEA courses and three of which are quantitative and modeling coursework. Electives should be selected in consultation with the program advisor.

Admission Requirements

• General university admission requirements
• Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Global Futures.
• Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in biological sciences, ecology, environmental sciences, environmental studies, geography, marine science, natural resource management, oceanography, sustainability, urban planning, geography, or a related discipline or related field from a regionally accredited institution.
• Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
• Applicants are required to submit:
  • Graduate admissions application and application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Professional resume
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Proof of English proficiency

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Application Deadlines

• Fall: December 1 (Final)

Global Opportunities

• Global experience: Students in the doctorate program have opportunities to develop their research with faculty who are working in a diverse array of locations, local and international.
• Long-standing ASU research centers in Bermuda and Hawai'i offer faculty and logistical support for research projects in the Atlantic and Pacific regions.

Career Opportunities

• With the increasing recognition that global oceans and coastal communities play a critical role in protecting future human and planetary well-being, graduates of the program find employment in universities, industry, and governmental and nongovernmental organizations that require a marine science background and relevant research experience.
• Career possibilities for program graduates include:
  • Community development director
  • Environmental consultant
  • Marine biologist
  • Policy advisor
  • Professor
  • Program manager or director
  • Research scientist

Additional Information

• The program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months.
• This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S.
• The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.