Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree in mathematics, science, engineering, or a related field and demonstrate a strong academic foundation in the sciences.
Minimum Prerequisites
  • One year of calculus

  • One year of physics

  • One year of chemistry

Recommended Preparation by Research Area
  • Physical Oceanography: Differential equations and computer programming

  • Chemical Oceanography/Geochemistry: Organic and physical chemistry

  • Biological Oceanography: Organic chemistry and biological sciences

Applicants with deficiencies in prerequisite coursework may be admitted conditionally, subject to completing additional courses.
 
Additional Considerations
Admission decisions consider academic preparation, research experience, letters of recommendation, and alignment with faculty research interests. Applicants must meet applicable Rutgers English language proficiency requirements.
GRE scores are not required. Admission decisions are made by the Graduate Program Admissions Committee in accordance with program bylaws.
 

1. Application Documents

Field Evaluation | 250–300 words

Describe a specific scientific project you have worked on, including its objectives, the approach you used, and what you learned from the experience.

Personal Statement | 200–250 words

Tell us about your background, including your academic and personal journey, experiences, and interests that have shaped your educational goals.

Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Submit a current résumé or CV highlighting your academic background, research experience, relevant professional experience, and accomplishments.

Include a list of publications and citations for abstracts or presentations delivered at professional conferences, if applicable.

Writing Sample | 200 words

Explain why you want to pursue a graduate degree in oceanography and why you are interested in studying at Rutgers University.

2. Faculty Interests and Research Experience

Identifying a Potential Faculty Mentor | 100 words

Connecting with a faculty mentor is an important part of graduate study. We strongly encourage prospective students to contact potential faculty mentors before submitting their applications.

Identify the faculty member(s) in the Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences with whom you are interested in working and explain how their research aligns with your academic and professional interests.

Explore Our Faculty: https://marine.rutgers.edu/our-team/faculty/

3. Academic Records

Education History and Transcripts

Applicants must provide their educational history and transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.

Unofficial and Official Transcripts

Unofficial transcripts are accepted for the initial application review. However, official transcripts are required for final admission to the Graduate Program in Oceanography.

International Transcripts and Credential Evaluations

Applicants whose academic transcripts are issued in a language other than English must have their international transcripts evaluated by a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)-approved provider, such as World Education Services (WES).

This evaluation allows Rutgers to review international academic credentials and begin the credit evaluation process.

4. Letters of Recommendation

Three Letters of Recommendation

Provide the names and email addresses of three individuals who will submit letters of recommendation on your behalf.

We encourage applicants to select individuals who can speak to their academic preparation, research experience, abilities, and potential for success in graduate study.

5. Standardized Test Scores

GRE General Test

The GRE is not required for admission to the Graduate Program in Oceanography.

English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following examinations:

· TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language

· IELTS – International English Language Testing System

· Duolingo – Duolingo English Test

Exemptions: Applicants who have earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution in the United States or another English-speaking country, where all instruction was conducted in English, may qualify for an exemption from the English language proficiency requirement.

For minimum test scores, exemptions, and additional requirements for international applicants, please visit the Rutgers Graduate Admissions – International Students website.

6. Application Fee and Submission

Application Fee

After submitting your application, you will be prompted to pay the non-refundable application fee.

Ready to Apply?

Applications to the Graduate Program in Oceanography are submitted through the Rutgers graduate admissions system.

APPLY NOW https://newbrunswickgrad.rutgers.edu/

Application Deadline: December 15