Oceanography
Bailey College of Science and Mathematics - Cal Poly Solano Campus
Immerse yourself in ocean science at the heart of the San Francisco Estuary—the largest on the West Coast. This program combines strong scientific foundations with hands-on learning through field research, global study opportunities and professional development. You’ll graduate prepared for an impactful career in ocean science, marine resource management or environmental policy.
Make an Impact
The Bachelor of Science in Oceanography equips you with an integrated understanding of today's ocean systems. You’ll build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills across the core disciplines of biological, geological, chemical, and physical oceanography. Through hands-on, faculty-guided research, you’ll explore real-world questions—ultimately producing original findings of your own. You’ll develop essential computational skills to work with complex ocean data—translating it into insight, action and impact.
Dive into Ocean Science
Prepare to tackle pressing challenges in today’s marine environments through directed research projects that build your skills in hypothesis testing, data analysis, and scientific inquiry. As part of your degree in Oceanography, you’ll also have the opportunity to broaden your perspective through a three-unit International Experience course offered during the summer.
Learn by Doing
Undergraduate research is embedded throughout the curriculum beginning with your first year. As a cadet, you be part of hydrographic surveys of the San Francisco Estuary, involved in the operation of shore stations and oceanographic buoys, maintain and operate modern oceanographic instruments. You'll master lab techniques while contributing to long term observational studies of local marine environments.
Global Perspectives
Centered around ocean literacy and stewardship through international experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to study abroad and explore diverse marine ecosystems. Collaborations with organizations like the California Department of Fish and Wildlife provide practical experiences.
Faculty and Staff
Faculty in the Oceanography Program are experts in each of the sub-disciplines of the field: geological, chemical, physical and biological oceanography.