The Final Frontier on Earth
The Ocean is a major component of the Earth System that shapes life on earth, including our weather and climate[cite: 5]. Explore oceanography as an observation-based interdisciplinary science with strong connections to astronomy, biology, geography, geology, chemistry, and physics[cite: 6].
What Students Are Saying
This course and instructor consistently receive perfect ratings for creating an environment that respects student diversity and provides effective instruction.
View Past Instructor Reports:
📄 Fall 2025 Instructor Report (AOSC375) 📄 Fall 2024 Preliminary Report (AOSC375) 📄 Fall 2024 Preliminary Report (GEOL375)
Course Meetings
In-Person: Mon-Wed-Fri 10:00am – 10:50am [cite: 27]
Online Sync: MWF 6:00pm – 6:50pm via Zoom [cite: 27]
Special Highlights
- Field Trip: Tour of the Smithsonian Natural History Museum in early November[cite: 53].
- Group Projects: High-impact collaboration with provided pizza[cite: 106, 109].
Learning Outcomes
After completing this course, you will be able to:
- Describe major ocean features and how they shape our planet[cite: 10].
- Identify geological, physical, chemical, and biological processes[cite: 11].
- Propose solutions to contemporary issues affecting the ocean[cite: 15].
Instructor
Prof. James A. Carton
Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science [cite: 24, 101]