BS Physics and Physical Oceanography at University of Rhode Island

Programme overview

The B.S. in Physics and Physical Oceanography program is unique in the entire United States. It is jointly offered by the Physics Department and the Graduate School of Oceanography. Students in this program are optimally prepared for graduate studies in oceanography.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Department of Physics | Study mode: full-time | Location: Kingston, RI, United States

Career pathways

Students graduating in this course of study are well prepared to pursue careers in conventional physics or physical oceanography. Technical positions in private or government oceanographic research laboratories are available for physical oceanographers at the B.S. level. Learn more about Careers Students who continue on to graduate studies should expect to find high demand for physical oceanographers with advanced.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Admission is to the University of Rhode Island at the university level and applies to all undergraduate majors (no separate programme application): a Common Application with official transcripts showing 18 units of college-preparatory coursework; standardized test scores are not required. Some majors set additional requirements for entering the major after admission. Entry into the major: Complete 24 units and have a minimum GPA of 2.00 Complete URI 101 internship credit

Domestic applicants: USD 15,684 a year (2026-27). Undergraduate full-time (12-19 credits) annual tuition, In state rate for 2026-27, as published for the level band; excludes registration, health services, technology and student services fees, accident/sickness insurance, and programme differential charg Source

International applicants: USD 37,350 a year (2026-27). Undergraduate full-time (12-19 credits) annual tuition, Out of state (non-resident) rate for 2026-27, as published for the level band; excludes registration, health services, technology and student services fees, accident/sickness insurance, and programme Source

First-year entry terms: Fall (September start) and Spring (January start). URI is a test-optional institution; SAT or ACT scores are optional.

First-year deadlines: Early Decision November 1; Early Action December 1; Regular Decision for Fall February 1; Regular Decision for Spring December 15 (domestic) or December 1 (international). Transfer: Fall July 31; priority Spring December 15. FAFSA March 1.

First-year applicants apply on the Common App; the application fee is $65 or a fee waiver.

Apply through the official page: https://apply.commonapp.org/Login?ma=376&tref=program-finder

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