Introduction to Physical Oceanography

Education facts

Code: OCM103

The course provides a basic introduction to the principles that govern the large-scale flow in the oceans. A major emphasis is on describing various physical phenomena using quantitative mathematical tools. The course deals with the following elements: Basic properties of a fluid and stratification effects, the derivation of simplified sets of equation describing large-scale oceanic flows, and the description of geostrophic flows, thermal wind, frictional effects, and basic theory of wind-driven ocean gyres.

Entry requirements

For admission to the course, 120 credits of completed courses within natural sciences are required, including 15 credits in mathematics (analysis and linear algebra), 15hp in physics (mechanics, thermodynamic) and Basics of Fluid Mechanics 7.5 credits or equivalent.

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Introduction to Physical Oceanography

  University of Gothenburg

  Start date: 1 September 2025

  End date: 2 November 2025

  Pace of study: 33 %