COURSE CURRICULUM

Earth and Ocean Sciences at the University of Victoria is a research-intensive degree that emphasizes interdisciplinary study across a wide range of scientific fields, including earth, ocean, and atmospheric sciences. The program is designed to accommodate students from diverse academic backgrounds in both basic and applied sciences, encouraging collaboration with faculty and research facilities across departments. A key component of the program is the completion of a thesis (EOS599), which forms the majority of the 15.0 required units and involves original research under the supervision of a faculty member. Students must also complete a minimum of 4.5 units of coursework, including EOS525 (Research Frontiers in Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science), typically taken in the first year, along with additional approved graduate or upper-level undergraduate courses. Depending on a student’s background, the supervisory committee may require extra coursework or, in exceptional cases, reduce course requirements with proper approval. Students are expected to actively engage in the academic community by presenting their research at least once at the Annual Graduate Student Workshop. Additionally, most students undertake teaching or research assistantships as part of their training. Overall, the program develops advanced research skills, scientific knowledge, and professional experience in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.