Program Overview

Master of Operational Oceanography Program

The Rutgers Master’s of Operational Oceanography program offers a comprehensive education in operational oceanography, emphasizing applied experiences and cutting-edge technology, with a focus on numerical forecast models, data synthesis/analysis, and real-time ocean observing teams, preparing graduates for careers in research and industry to contribute to the sustainable growth of the Blue Economy.

Program Overview

• The Master of Operational Oceanography track is a compact 12-month Master of Science degree program providing thorough but efficient applied training for students from around the world.
• For Rutgers students, it also provides a concise path for marine science undergraduates to earn a master’s with a single year of additional training (a “4+1” model).
• With small class numbers and an individualized mentorship model, the program supports students in building:
  • Marine science expertise
  • Collaborative skills
  • Observing system technology experience
  • Data literacy
  • Ocean modeling literacy
  • Communication skills
  • Job preparation

Core Courses

• Summer Session III:
  • 16:712:507 Field Laboratory Methods 1: This hands-on laboratory course provides students with practical experience in ocean observation techniques and field data collection.
• Fall Semester:
  • 16:712:501 Physical Oceanography: Physical properties and basic equations for describing waves, tides, currents, and the large-scale wind-driven and thermohaline circulation.
  • 16:712:505 Integrated Ocean Observing 1: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the essential tools and techniques used in ocean observation.
  • 16:712:509 Integrated Ocean Observing – Software Bootcamp: This bootcamp introduces widely used scientific computing tools and fundamental coding practices for ocean and geoscience research.
  • 16:712:510 Operational Ocean Modeling/Visualization 1: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the numerical and computational tools used in ocean research and forecasting.
  • 01:450:321 Geographic Information Systems: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a rapidly growing field that is increasingly popular for a wide range of spatial analyses.
• Spring Semester:
  • 16:712:506 Integrated Ocean Observing 2: The ocean plays a central role in regulating the Earth’s climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining human economies.
  • 16:712:508 Field Laboratory Methods 2: Building on the foundational skills developed in Field Lab Methods 1, this advanced laboratory course provides students with in-depth hands-on training in ocean observation technologies and fieldwork.

Field Experience

• Our students benefit from joining one of the world's most advanced and longest operating ocean observatories.
• As part of our team, students work directly with our faculty, technicians, and partners across NJ and worldwide to deploy and repair gliders, help install and maintain our high frequency radar network, and operate marine equipment to support ongoing RUCOOL research.

Mentoring

• Students participate in group and individual meetings throughout the program so that we can best support them both during the program and as they embark on their career path.
• Group meetings allow students to learn from and collaborate with the entire RUCOOL group.
• Meanwhile, 1-on-1 meetings help our faculty to identify and work with each student to meet their research and career goals.

Our Students

• Current students and alumni are listed, along with their testimonials about the program.

Our Team

• The program team includes:
  • Alex Lopez, Master of Operational Oceanography (MOO) Degree Program Director
  • Oscar Schofield, Department Chair
  • Scott Glenn, Distinguished Professor
  • Josh Kohut, Professor
  • Travis Miles, Associate Professor
  • Grace Saba, Associate Professor
  • Max Gorbunov, Research Professor

Our Advisory Board

• The advisory board includes professionals from various institutions and organizations.

Admission Requirements

• Applications received by January 1 receive full consideration.
• Applications received after that may be considered on a rolling basis but are not guaranteed.
• The program begins in late July each year.
• Application requirements include:
  • A Personal Statement
  • Official undergraduate transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • The GRE is not required for this degree program.
• A baccalaureate degree in marine science or related field, and one year of calculus and physics.

Costs and Funding

• Master of Operational Oceanography students are self-funded, however funding assistance may be available depending on research focus.
• Full cost of the program attendance is based on university tuition and fees rates for the School of Graduate Studies.