Oceanographic Field and Laboratory Methods

Catalog description

Credits 3. 2 Lecture Hours. 2 Lab Hours. COURSE OVERVIEW. This course immerses students in the practice of oceanographic fieldwork and laboratory analysis. Students learn how to collect, prepare and analyze samples while developing a scientific understanding of ocean processes. They gain experience working with real data from research cruises and laboratory experiments, practicing both individual and team-based approaches to problem solving. The course emphasizes accuracy, safety and professionalism in oceanographic research and challenges students to think critically as they interpret data and communicate their findings. RELEVANCE AND APPLICATION. This course bridges classroom learning and real-world oceanographic applications by building skills directly used in environmental research and applied studies. Students connect theoretical knowledge to real-world data collection used by oceanographers, environmental agencies and research institutions. The experience helps prepare students for graduate study, oceanographic careers or any profession requiring quantitative reasoning, teamwork and data-driven decision-making. Through field trips and laboratory work, students develop confidence in measuring and analyzing common ocean parameters to understand and address marine and environmental challenges that affect communities and ecosystems. KEY TOPICS AND THEMES. Key topics include field sampling and data collection, laboratory analysis of seawater, error analysis and data quality control, instrument calibration and post-cruise data organization. Students explore the relationship between field and laboratory observations, focusing on accuracy, precision and reliability of measurements. Themes of safety, teamwork, critical thinking and effective scientific communication are integrated throughout the semester. Prerequisites: OCNG 251 and CHEM 120 ; junior or senior classification or approval of instructor.