Overview

The Ocean Policy and Science Graduate Certificate from URI Online offers a comprehensive exploration of critical issues at the intersection of marine science, policy, and conservation. Designed for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of ocean governance, marine resource management, and coastal sustainability, this program provides specialized knowledge and practical skills to address complex challenges in the field.

Through a flexible online format, students can access top-tier education from experts in the field while balancing their studies with other commitments. Whether aspiring to careers in environmental policy, marine research, or conservation advocacy, graduates emerge equipped to make meaningful contributions to the preservation and sustainable use of our ocean resources.

Courses

OCG 515: Phenomenal Ocean
Introduction to oceanography including ocean events and phenomena (e.g. hydrothermal vents, polymetallic nodules, ocean garbage patches) as entry points to explore the foundational and interrelated nature of the biological, chemical, geological, and physical sub-disciplines of oceanography.

OCG 516: Understanding Ocean and Climate Models
Introduction course to ocean and climate models, including basic attributes of oceanic and climate models, analysis of models’ conceptual bases, model assumptions, data requirements predictions, and uncertainties, includes physical and biologic models to explore strengths and realistic limitations of models.

OCG 601: Ocean Resilience
Course focuses on complex issues related to changes in the ocean environment. Topics include climate change, sea level rise, fisheries management, marine pollution, natural hazards and emerging ocean energy initiatives.

MAF 570: Introduction to Ocean Governance
Introduction to principles and practice of global ocean governance, including an integrated analysis of the governance of the marine natural resources and ocean use activities, which covers all major legal zones in the global ocean.

Tuition per credit based on 2023/2024 academic year rates (subject to change): $887

Admissions

• Bachelor’s Degree
• College transcripts
• Two letters of recommendation
• Resume/CV
• Personal Statement
  • Interest in program
  • Relevant work experience
  • Reasons for applying to the online program at URI
  • Professional goals, as well as plans for achieving these goals