Overview of Ocean Engineering

Ocean Engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines engineering, particularly tech, with the ocean environment. It uses the principles of engineering, mechanics, physics and mathematics to find better solutions to existing issues related to the ocean environment. Its goal is to make the best use out of the ocean and the resources within it, developing various strategies and designs for efficient and sustainable use.

Career Opportunities Related to Ocean Engineering

Ocean Engineering opportunities are found in a variety of sectors, such as environmental protection, military and defense, fisheries, aquaculture, offshore engineering, shipbuilding, energy extraction, naval architecture and undersea exploration. Industrial and environmental companies hire ocean engineers to develop technologies for ocean monitoring systems, equipment and infrastructure, deep-sea drilling, submersible vehicles, water resource management and oil and gas platform design.

Internship or Co-Op Opportunities Related to Ocean Engineering

Pursuing internships and co-op opportunities related to Ocean Engineering can be an excellent way to begin your professional journey. The availability of opportunities depends on the organization. Private and public research institutions, government organizations, including military and defense, and commercial companies involved in offshore and maritime activities have internship or co-op programs related to Ocean Engineering.

Specialized Tracks or Concentrations within Ocean Engineering

Ocean Engineering is a broad field with many sub-disciplines. Specialized fields of study within Ocean Engineering include bio-robotic systems engineering, coastal engineering, naval architecture and marine engineering, port and harbor engineering, marine structures and materials, maritime and maritime security engineering.

How Ocean Engineering Prepares Students for Graduate School or Further Education

Ocean Engineering is a great field for students who are interested in learning further in the fields of engineering, mathematics, physics and other related subjects. Ocean Engineering students gain a clear understanding and insight into engineering processes and develop transferable skills, such as problem-solving, decision-making skills and project management. It provides students with a deep understanding of various engineering topics which can be applied to their academic pursuits.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Ocean Engineering

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already making an impact in Ocean Engineering. AI technologies, such as autonomous underwater vehicles and computer-aided systems, are playing a key role in researching and mapping the ocean environment. AI technology can also be used to analyze large amounts of data collected on the ocean, providing more accurate predictions and insights into how the ocean functions.

The Career Outlook for Ocean Engineering

The career outlook for Ocean Engineering is positive. As the demand for sustainable and efficient solutions for energy production, transportation and military operations increases, there is more of a need for professionals with the knowledge of ocean engineering. With advancements in technologies, ocean engineering is becoming a highly sought-after and competitive field with many potential career opportunities in various industries.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Ocean Engineering:

Texas A & M University-College Station, Salary: $64,260

Florida Atlantic University, Salary: $61,746

Florida Institute of Technology, Salary: $60,121

University of Rhode Island, Salary: $60,071

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their bachelor’s degree in Ocean Engineering.