PhD in Oceanography, Chemical and Physical (PhD)

Students study the chemical components, mechanisms, structure, and movement of ocean waters, and how they interact with land and the atmosphere. They also study material inputs and outputs, chemical and biochemical changes in marine systems, ocean chemistry, circulation, mixing, tides, waves, seawater properties, sediment transport, and zone processes.

This field supports work related to understanding marine systems and oceanographic processes. It is used in studies of ocean chemistry, sediment movement, circulation, mixing, and the interaction of ocean waters with terrestrial and atmospheric phenomena.

Applied research connects the Naval Postgraduate School's graduate education with practical defense needs. Warfare studies and wargaming form a central area of work, alongside research in artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, digitally crewed vessels, and space-related imaging systems. Centers, institutes, and academic groups provide interdisciplinary expertise across the institution's education and research programs.

Based in Monterey, California, NPS offers graduate study through academic departments and provides programs both on campus and through distance learning. NPS Online extends defense-focused education through tailored graduate-level distance learning and on-location opportunities. The school also supports research and education linked to operational challenges, with faculty expertise spanning a broad range of critical disciplines.

International applicants should understand that NPS is designed primarily for eligible U.S. and allied military personnel, Department of Defense civilians, and a limited number of defense contractors. The school also works with international partners. Its degrees are master's and PhD programs focused on defense-related study, and its academic model expects students to connect professional operational experience with graduate education and applied research.