PhD Oceanography at University of Rhode Island

Programme overview

The Ph.D. in Oceanography at the Graduate School of Oceanography (Narragansett Bay Campus) lets students focus on biological, chemical, geological or physical oceanography and interdisciplinary areas such as atmospheric chemistry. Typically 5-6 years, with funding through assistantships.

Faculty: Graduate School of Oceanography | Department: Graduate School of Oceanography | Duration: Typically 5-6 years | Intake: Fall/Spring; target dates 1 January (Fall) and 15 November (Spring) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Kingston, RI, United States

What you will study

Coursework, a comprehensive exam, research credits, a thesis proposal defense, a research cruise of at least 5 days at sea and a final thesis defense. Tracks: Biological Oceanography, Marine and Atmospheric Chemistry, Marine Geology and Geophysics, and Physical Oceanography.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

GRE not required. Applicants must have a faculty sponsor (a current GSO faculty member who agrees to act as temporary advisor). Application includes personal statement, CV, transcripts and letters of recommendation, evaluated holistically on academic preparation (emphasis on natural science and quantitative coursework), research experience, fit with faculty research and non-cognitive competencies. Application target dates: 1 January for Fall, 15 November for Spring; rolling admission. Recent TOEFL or equivalent required if first language is not English.

Domestic applicants: USD 17,116 a year (2026-27). Graduate full-time (9-15 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 charges (en Source

International applicants: USD 33,328 a year (2026-27). Graduate full-time (9-15 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 diffe Source

Doctoral programmes listed admit for Fall start (for example Behavioral Science Psychology PhD, and Biological and Environmental Sciences PhD).

Behavioral Science Psychology PhD Fall deadline December 1; Biological and Environmental Sciences PhD Fall deadline December 15. Applications use the URI Graduate Application (programmes using CAS: DPT, Speech Language Pathology MS, Dietetics MS apply through their own centralized application systems).

Apply through the official page: https://web.uri.edu/graduate-school/admission/

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