College of Engineering Department of Ocean Engineering

The Undergraduate Program in Ocean Engineering

The Department of Ocean Engineering offers a curriculum leading to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in ocean engineering. The department has been nationally and internationally recognized as a leader in ocean engineering since its founding in 1966. The B.S. program is designed to meet the requirements of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and is open to qualified students under the New England Regional Student Program.

OCE311 class coring off the R/V CT-1

The curriculum in ocean engineering offers a firm foundation in engineering fundamentals and prepares students for professional careers or for graduate school. The required ocean engineering courses begin at the freshman level and include engineering science laboratory, analysis, and design courses. The design component of the curriculum includes 17 credits of course work. There is a strong emphasis on the practical application of scientific principles in the ocean environment.

Experiments in several basic areas provide an integrated approach to investigations into ocean phenomena and processes. Students plan and execute experiments, collect and analyze data, and report results. Through this hands-on experience they gain an understanding of the role of ocean engineering in scientific and industrial fields.

Professional elective courses in ocean engineering are also required and introduce students to such topics as ocean instrumentation and seafloor mapping, underwater acoustics and data analysis, marine hydrodynamics and water wave mechanics, coastal and nearshore modeling, marine geomechanics, coastal and offshore structures, and corrosion.

An ocean systems design course in the senior year integrates previously obtained knowledge in a comprehensive design project. This design experience may be obtained through on-campus instruction, through participation in an ongoing University research project, or through an off-campus summer internship in an ocean-oriented private company or government laboratory. The internship allows students to take advantage of the many opportunities available in the region.

Ocean Engineering Mission Statement, Educational Objectives and Program Requirements
Ocean Engineering BS Curriculum
Ocean Engineering Courses
Ocean Engineering Student Handbook
Areas of Study
Admission Requirements
Admission Information and Forms
URI Catalog

For further information please contact:
Chair, Department of Ocean Engineering