Course at a glance
Introduction
Oceanography, also known as marine science, is the study of the world’s oceans and their complex processes. Covering 70% of the Earth’s surface, oceans play a crucial role in climate, biology, and geology. This course begins by exploring the differences between oceans and seas, the formation and changes of ocean basins, and the historical significance of key research, like the Challenger expedition, in advancing our knowledge of the marine environment.
Upon completion of each unit in the course the student will be provided with an assignment, based upon short questions and answers or essay questions, to test the understanding of the course presented. This will enable the tutor to offer guidance and feedback to show how well the student has understood the content of each unit. The assignments don’t count toward the final grade as the course will be assessed by online examination.
Benefits of the Course:
Students will expect to derive the following benefits from the diploma course:
- Students will gain knowledge in Oceanography
- Students will explore the different types of Oceanography such as physical, Geological and Operational and more.
- You will discover the names and locations of the oceans and seas.
- At the end of the course you will have a great understanding of the variations of Oceanography.
Level 3 Oceanography Diploma Entry Requirements
All students must be 16 years of age and above to enrol onto our Level 3 Oceanography Diploma course.
Level 3 Diploma courses require a minimum prior learning to GCSE standard in order that students can manage their studies and the assumed knowledge within course content.
Course Hours
Approximately 20 hours per unit.
Assessment
Optional coursework and final examination.
Enrolment
Please note that you can enrol on this course at anytime.
Course Length
1 Year.
Endorsed By
Students at the college have the option to choose the awarding body of their course.
This course has been endorsed by :
Accord : https://accord.ac/
This course awarding body are recognised for their high-quality, non-regulated provision and training programmes. This course is not an accredited qualification. Your training provider will be able to advise you on any further recognition, for example progression routes into further and/or higher education. For further information please visit Accord website.
Level 3 Oceanography Diploma Course Content
Unit 1: Introduction to the Oceans and Oceanography
This foundational unit covers the interdisciplinary nature of oceanography, including biological, chemical, geological, and physical perspectives. Students will gain skills in scientific measurement and research techniques used in the study of ocean processes, helping in weather prediction and trend analysis.
Unit 2: Maths for Oceanography
Basic mathematical skills are essential for oceanographic data analysis. This unit includes units of measurement, statistics, algebra, and trigonometry, providing students with the tools to interpret oceanographic data accurately and predict impacts on climate and ecosystems.
Unit 3: The Ocean Basins
This unit explores the geological formation of ocean basins through plate tectonics and continental drift, as well as bathymetry, which studies ocean floor topography. Students will learn about different rock types and geological processes that continue to shape ocean basins.
Unit 4: Properties of Seawater
Understanding the unique properties of seawater is key in oceanography. This unit covers the chemical composition of seawater, how light and sound travel through it, and variations in density, salinity, and temperature across different ocean regions.
Unit 5: Currents and Circulation
Ocean currents significantly affect climate, weather, and marine life. This unit covers the types of currents, such as gyres and vertical currents, and phenomena like El Niño and La Niña. Students also learn about energy production from ocean currents and modern measurement techniques.
Unit 6: Waves and Tides
Students explore wave and tide classification, their causes, and their impact on the marine environment, including coastal erosion and sediment transport. The unit also covers tidal energy as a renewable resource and the effects of tsunamis on coastal areas.
Unit 7: The Oceans and Climate
This unit delves into how oceans influence global climate, including the role of water properties in climate regulation. Topics include climate change, global warming, greenhouse gas reduction, and strategies to mitigate climate impacts.
Unit 8: Palaeoceanography
Palaeoceanography studies the ancient history of oceans and their influence on climate. Students learn how sediments, rocks, and fossils reveal Earth’s past climates and events like mass extinctions, plate tectonics, and species evolution.
Unit 9: Biological Oceanography
This unit covers the marine organisms that inhabit the oceans and their ecological relationships. Topics include chemical cycles, geothermal vents, and human impacts on the ocean environment, such as pollution and oil extraction.
Unit 10: Careers in Oceanography
The final unit introduces students to career paths in oceanography, covering roles in marine research, environmental monitoring, and engineering. Topics include marine law, ocean mining, telecommunication cables, and energy production, helping students plan their future in the field.
Progression
This Level 3 Oceanography Diploma can be used to gain entry to a Level 4+5 Diploma or higher.
You can view a lit of our Level 4+5 Diplomas here: Accredited level 4+5 Diplomas
