Ocean Sciences (BSc)
Complete your degree steps away from the Atlantic Ocean, at one of the world's top marine science universities.
Why choose this program?
Learn how the ocean connects people across the world. Dalhousie has a global reputation for excellence in ocean education and research. When you study ocean sciences at Dal, you’ll combine knowledge of biological, chemical, geological and physical oceanography to help understand our changing oceans.
Our Ocean Sciences degree will prepare a new generation of scientists to address some of society’s most exciting ocean opportunities and pressing environmental challenges. Gain a broad perspective on the role of ocean sciences in society and experience firsthand many of the exciting technological innovations that are transforming our ability to observe the ocean.
Careers
Rapid scientific and technological advances in a variety of fields are accelerating the growth of the global ocean economy. Dalhousie’s ocean sciences program prepares you for a career working in our oceans with cutting-edge ocean technology.
What you will learn
There’s no better place to learn about the ocean than on the edge of the Atlantic at Dalhousie University. You'll get your feet wet in the lab and field, use world-class research facilities, and take part in field courses at sea.
Sample courses
Conversations with Ocean Scientists
Intro to Physics
Geology
Life Science Calculus
- The Blue Planet
- Tools and Concepts in Ocean Sciences
- Climate Change
The Last Billion Years
Geochemistry of Aquatic Environments
Introduction to Field Oceanography
Biological Oceanography
Oceans and Global Change
Marine Management
Deep Sea Biology
Gain experience outside the classroom
Enroll in a first-year interest group (FIGs) like Oceans
Apply for 1 of 70+ Faculty-coordinated summer research awards available each year
Attend career prep workshops
Attend an OceanTech Club meeting. A free, no-commitment, drop-in club at Dalhousie where students from any discipline can build remotely operated vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, and ocean sensors.
Join the Dalhousie Oceanography Undergraduate Society to connect with classmates, participate in social events, and engage with the ocean sciences community.
Customize your degree
The following Ocean Science program options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:
Concentrated Honours Bachelor of Science in Ocean Science
Combined Honours Bachelor of Science in Ocean Science
Bachelor of Science with Major in Ocean Science
Bachelor of Science with Double Major in Ocean Science
Minor in Ocean Science
Add a minor to your BSc in Ocean Science to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal.
Visit the Academic Calendar to browse the minors you can take with this degree.
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:
Aquaculture and the Environment
Environmental Impact Assessment
Geographic Information Science
Science Communication and Leadership
Take advantage of the unique opportunity to work and learn at an international school in Bermuda, France or Scotland.
The Dalhousie Integrated Science Program (DISP) is a unique, immersive first-year option for motivated students looking to complete their first year of a science degree. You’ll work effectively in teams, explore connections across scientific disciplines, and complete a hands-on research project while building critical skills in data analysis, tech, and scientific communication
Our BSc program provides students with a solid interdisciplinary science background and a hands-on introduction to oceanographic concepts, among a close-knit group of ocean science students faculty and staff.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To enter the Bachelor of Science program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:
- Minimum overall average: 75%
- Academic English 12
- Pre-calculus Math 12
- Three other academic courses
Note: All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year.
You will officially declare your Ocean Science major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.
