The Department of Oceanography is committed to the discovery and dissemination of knowledge about the ocean. We educate students about the ocean in the classroom and develop their research skills by involving them directly in research ashore and on ships in all oceans of the world. We study processes and interactions among oceans, atmosphere, biosphere and geosphere by collecting, analyzing, and modeling large data sets to solve important complex problems of immediate and long-term concern to society.

Our mission requires action in three principal roles:

• Teaching. We provide an effective learning environment for students interested in careers in ocean science or related fields, and also for students with other interests who will be responsible citizens, stewards of the environment, and public supporters of science.
• Research. We conduct interdisciplinary research in the ocean and on its boundaries, maintain advanced laboratory facilities at sea and ashore, seek public and private research funds, and recruit and retain quality faculty, staff and students.
• Outreach. We serve our constituents by providing information, education and guidance about the ocean environment and by enhancing the general economic and intellectual well-being of society.