Master of Physical Oceanography

The Master of Physical Oceanography can be completed in 1.7 years of full-time study and is worth 72 Units of Credit (UOC). The program comprises 4 core courses (24 UOC), 5 elective courses (30 UOC), and 1 major research project (18 UOC).

The research project is worth 18 UOC and serves as a capstone project integrating coursework elements. The topic is chosen with faculty supervisors and aligns with the student's research or professional interests. Students must maintain a 65+ WAM and complete at least 36 UOC (typically six courses) before starting the project, and enrolment involves taking the 6 UOC Physical Oceanography Research Project course for three consecutive terms.

Yes. The Master of Physical Oceanography forms part of an articulated suite of programs. Students may exit with the Graduate Diploma in Physical Oceanography (Program 5518, 48 UOC) if they meet its requirements. Conditional on academic performance (overall average mark over 70%), students may choose not to graduate with the graduate diploma but instead upgrade to the master's program, with credits automatically transferred.

For domestic students, the 2026 indicative first year full fee is $40,000 and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $61,000. For international students, the 2026 indicative first year full fee is $60,000 and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $93,000. Fees are subject to annual review and may vary.

Yes. The Master of Physical Oceanography provides a pathway to further studies at PhD level and is the largest of an articulated suite of physical oceanography programs at UNSW. The program's research project component is designed to develop the investigation skills needed for higher degree research.