Skip to main content

Oceanographer

Dive into the depths of the ocean and unlock its mysteries as an oceanographer! This exciting career allows you to explore marine life, study ocean currents, and contribute to the health of our planet. If you love science and adventure, this could be your dream job!

Oceanographer

15

Geography and Earth Sciences

AI IMPACT
AI USED FOR15%moving to60%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£22,000 - £28,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.

THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years

AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI is already used for some of this job, but the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.

Career progression path

Is this the only route?

This is the standard academic trajectory, but modern careers are highly flexible. You can often skip stagesby entering the industry with an advanced qualification (like a Master's or PhD), or pivot sideways from a related discipline.

0ACADEMIC FOUNDATIONUniversity DegreeUsually 3 to 4 years of full-time academic study, explicitly preparing you for the theoretical realities of the industry. Requires A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3.-£67,350Avg. UK tuition & living
1FIRST STEPMarine Research AssistantAs a Marine Research Assistant, you'll help collect data, assist in experiments, and support senior scientists in their research projects. This is a great way to gain practical experience in the field!£22,000 - £28,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEOceanographerIn this role, you'll conduct your own research, analyze data, and publish your findings. You'll work on important issues like climate change and marine conservation, making a real impact on the world.£30,000 - £45,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Oceanographer/Research LeaderAt the peak of your career, you'll lead major research projects, mentor junior scientists, and influence policy on marine issues. Your work will help shape the future of ocean science and conservation.£50,000+

The degree route

Real courses in this career's subject, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.

🎓GeologyUniversity of Exeter · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓OceanographyUniversity of Southampton · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,500 median
🎓Earth Sciences (International Programme)University College London · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓GeographyBangor University · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Geography and Economics (Regional Science) with Professional ExperienceThe University of Reading · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Geography and Middle East StudiesUniversity of St Andrews · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£28,000 median

All Geography and Earth Sciences courses as cards →

Recommended UK degrees

Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.