Careers in Oceanography Careers in Oceanography Many people associate careers in oceanography as consisting of swimming with marine animals at a marine life park or snorkeling in crystal-clear tropical waters studying coral reefs. In reality, these kinds of jobs are extremely rare and there is intense competition for the few jobs that do exist.
Most oceanographers work in fields that use science to solve a particular problem in the ocean.
Other disciplines include ocean engineering, marine archaeology, and marine policy. Since the study of oceanography often examines in detail all the different disciplines of oceanography, it is often described as being an interdisciplinary science, or one covering all the disciplines of science as they apply to the oceans. Thus, some of the most exciting work and best employment opportunities combine two or more of these disciplines. In almost all cases, mathematics is required as well. Because many job opportunities in oceanography require trips on research vessels, any shipboard experience is also desirable.