To become an oceanographer you generally need a Master's degree in one of the following:

• physics
• applied mathematics
• oceanography.

To do research work, you need a PhD in one of the following:

• physics
• applied mathematics
• oceanography
• engineering
• marine science
• biology.

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Bursary or NCEA Level 3 maths with calculus and/or statistics, physics, chemistry or biology is preferred.

Many skills are gained on the job, including how to design and organise experiments that will be done while at sea.

Oceanographers may attend conferences, read scientific journals, use the Internet and talk to colleagues to keep up to date with the latest developments and scientific techniques in their field.

Useful experience for oceanographers includes:

• any practical marine work such as scuba diving
• work as a science technician 
• any experience in computers or electronics.