Oceanography of the Pacific Northwest (OCEAN 101)

About this Course

This course covers the fundamental principles of ocean science, including the origin and extent of the oceans; chemistry of seawater and the nature of the ocean basins; causes and effects of currents, waves and tides; and animal and plant life in the sea. 

Most people are familiar with the idea that the world is 70 percent ocean. With a particular focus on the Pacific Northwest, this course uses the Puget Sound and the larger Salish Sea to help explore and tell the story of our ocean planet. 

Featuring lessons such as “Is It Seattle’s Fault,” which explores plate tectonics; “Does It Always Rain in Seattle,” which looks at the impact of the ocean on our climate; “Surf’s Up,” which digs into waves; and “Finding Nemo and the East Australian Current,” which explores ocean currents, the course keeps topics relevant and interesting, whether you are from the Pacific Northwest or another part of the world. 

This course is intended for non-majors and helps satisfy UW’s Natural World (NW) general education requirements.

See Requirements