Oceanography is an interdisciplinary science. Our faculty constitutes a team with backgrounds in physical, biological, geological, chemical, and fisheries oceanography.
Students considering graduate study in Oceanography are strongly encouraged to contact potential faculty advisors prior to applying. This will assist in a more efficient review of their application. Students in Oceanography who have strong quantitative skills and have a background in natural sciences or, in some cases, mathematics or engineering are encouraged to apply. Some academic preparation in biology, chemistry, physics, math (including calculus) and geology is advised. Students are admitted on the basis of their ability and academic preparation, availability of financial support, and the capability of the program to meet their particular interests and needs. Faculty review requests for admission throughout the year. Most students are supported by their advisors on research projects that relate directly to their degree research. These stipends for financial support are awarded competitively.
Application procedure
Submit the following:
- An application for admission and application fee ($60)
- Official transcripts from all universities or colleges attended
- GPA must be above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Official test results
- Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores must have a 55% or better in at least two of the three categories (written, verbal and qualitative)
- International Students:
- A minimum TOEFL score of 79 OR
- A minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
- Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Your statement provides the application review committee within the department an opportunity to learn the following:
- Any special circumstances you wish the department to consider
- Your particular academic reasons for applying to the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences at the University of Alaska Fairbanks
- Your professional goals and reasons for your choice of career
- The special emphasis you hope to pursue in the program
- Your preparation and background
- Additional advice on preparing your statement, by Gordon Haas
- Your statement provides the application review committee within the department an opportunity to learn the following:
- Three letters of reference who are able to write to your ability to undertake a graduate study and research. Ideally, these should come from faculty, research staff or professionals who are familiar with your academic or work experience.
- International Students:
- A copy of your passport identification page
- UAF's financial statement form and provide supporting documentation showing adequate funding to cover all expenses at UAF, including round-trip transportation to Alaska
To be accepted into a graduate degree program in the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, applicants must have an eligible faculty member willing to serve as a major advisor. The College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences typically does not accept students without a funding source and project identified.
Applications materials should be sent to:
Office of Admissions
2nd floor Signers' Hall
PO Box 757480
Fairbanks, AK 99775
uaf-admissions@alaska.edu
Grant opportunities
Financial aid is funding that helps students and families pay for the cost of college. Need-based financial aid, such as the Pell Grant, Supplemental grants and Work-Study, are provided on the basis of the financial need of the student and is generally determined by your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Other types of financial aid are not determined by need, such as loans and merit-based scholarships.
We offer a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans and Federal Work-Study. Here’s a quick look at each and where to find more information.
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