Best Path for Ocean Engineering: ME, EE, or Physics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the optimal educational path for pursuing a career in Ocean Engineering (OE). Participants emphasize that a major in Mechanical Engineering (ME) with a minor in Electrical Engineering (EE) is advantageous due to the hands-on work required in ocean science labs. The conversation highlights the importance of foundational courses such as Electromagnetism (E&M), Fluid Mechanics, Statistical Thermodynamics, and Partial Differential Equations (PDEs). Additionally, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is noted for its undergraduate OE program, which integrates elements of EE, ME, and Civil Engineering.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Mechanical Engineering (ME) principles
  • Knowledge of Electrical Engineering (EE) fundamentals
  • Familiarity with core physics concepts, including Electromagnetism and Fluid Mechanics
  • Basic comprehension of Partial Differential Equations (PDEs)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the undergraduate Ocean Engineering program at MIT
  • Explore the integration of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering in ocean science applications
  • Investigate research opportunities in oceanography, particularly REUs (Research Experiences for Undergraduates)
  • Study the role of Civil Engineering in Ocean Engineering projects
USEFUL FOR

Students considering a career in Ocean Engineering, aspiring engineers interested in environmental applications, and individuals seeking interdisciplinary approaches that combine engineering with ocean sciences.

blaughli
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I have been advised by some helpful PF folks that Ocean Engineering might be a good path for someone like me who is interested in engineering but wants to maintain a connection to nature and the ocean. A friend who is a PhD at Scripps in San Diego says that more than anything they need engineers at places like this, so I am happy that my two years of engineering prep have been time well spent. Now I am wondering which discipline in engineering is most needed in the Ocean Sciences. My feeling is that majoring in ME with a minor or emphasis in EE is a good path, since it seems like there's a lot of hands-work awaiting in these labs. But if anyone has experience or advice to offer please help. What is the best, most rigorous path that will lead to the greatest opportunities in OE?

I know MIT has an undergrad OE program, and I'm sure other schools do too. I like the sound of those because they seem like a mix of EE, ME, and Civil! Best to try for that or focus on ME or EE BS first? Or maybe physics!?
 
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THis past summer I did an REU with an Oceanographer, he started as a ME if that helps. I think as long as you take E&M, Fluid Mechanics, Stat Therm physics, and PDE's you should be ok.
 
Thanks NeoZeon, those are all things I've done or plan to take. What was your REU like, what were your feelings about oceanography?
 

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