Study facts

Course codeGEOF130
ECTS credits10
Teaching semesterHaust
Study levelUndergraduate Courses
Number of semesters1
Belongs toGeophysical Institute

Aim and Content

The module provides a descriptive introduction into oceanography. The students will be given a broad introduction into sea waters basic properties (physical and chemical), basic principles of ocean circulation and mixing in the ocean, tidal and wave phenomena. Moreover interaction between ocean and atmosphere are discussed as well as the heat budget and radiation balance in the global ocean and the global ocean circulation. An integral part of the course is a set of lab experiments and a field day to provide the students with some experience with oceanographic instrumentation.

Learning Outcomes


- understand and make use of professional terminology

- describe the basic physical and chemical properties of sea water

- distinguish between molecular and turbulent mixing processes

- reflect basic principles of density - and wind driven circulation in the ocean

- depict simple explanations of basic models for ocean circulation, e.g. geostrophic circulation or Ekman transport

- provide an elementary explanation for tidal forcing

- distinguish and classify different types of gravitational waves

- depict simple explanations of different terms and definitions connected to wave propagation such as dispersion, attenuation, refraction and interference

- carry out basic lab experiments

- summarise and analyse results of basic lab experiments

Course offered (semester)


Recommended previous knowledge

MAT 111, PHYS 111

Compulsory Requirements

Lab.course and cruise

Assessment methods

Written, 4 hours. If less than 10 candidates, the exam might be oral.

Assessment methods

Written, 4 hours. If less than 10 candidates, the exam might be oral. Examination support materials: Non- programmable calculator, according to model listed in faculty regulations.

Grading Scale
