NR 150 Oceanography

Overview of Course

This course offers a unique, interdisciplinary exploration of the world ocean, with particular focus on the properties of the oceans we will encounter along the path of our voyage. As the primary driver of global climate and weather, the ocean covers more than 70% of Earth’s surface and sustains its vast biodiversity. This course provides a comprehensive scientific overview of the marine environment, integrating physical (waves, tides, currents), chemical (salinity, ocean acidification, nutrients), geological (sediments, bathymetry, plate tectonics), and biological oceanography (habitats, distributions of organisms). These oceanographic principles are critical for understanding the environmental issues oceans face such as warming, ocean acidification, pollution, sea-level rise, fisheries, invasive species, and changes to species distributions. Through port country field excursions, experiences, and class discussions, we will explore how different cultures value, use, and protect ocean resources.