An Introduction to Ocean Engineering:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The following are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the EOE major at USNA. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact one of our faculty members.
Q: What is the difference between Ocean Engineering (EOE) and Oceanography (SOC)?
A: In short, Ocean Engineering is an engineering discipline, whereas oceanography is a science. Engineers are problem-solvers; they must assimilate numerous skills (e.g. math & physics) and resources (e.g. oceanic data) in order to solve a problem through means such as the design of a structure, vehicle or system. Oceanographers, on the other hand, are generally responsible for finding out information about the oceanic characteristics (temperatures, currents, etc.) which ocean engineers need. The two groups - oceanographers and ocean engineers - usually work very closely with each other.
Or, to quote Theodore Von Karman, "Scientists discover the world that exists; engineers create the world that never was."
Q: How do the EOE environmental courses differ from the courses in the environmental track of the Systems Engineering (ESE) department?
A: The systems engineering majors who choose the ESE environmental track take one elective in the systems department, and then must take another environmental elective from within our department. (So they all must come to our department anyway!) Our department offers more environmental engineering electives than any other department at USNA.
Q: Will I be limiting my career opportunities by choosing Ocean Engineering over a more traditional or "conventional" major?
A: Certainly not. All engineering majors here at USNA are required to take traditional fundamentals of engineering courses such as statics, dynamics, strength of materials, materials science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, along with other applied engineering courses. The difference that ocean engineering brings to engineering education is that the application of the fundamentals learned can be so varied -- and so interesting! You will learn more if you are interested in the subject matter. So if the ocean or the coast interests you, and you are interested in applying math, science, and physics to design solutions to some of mankind's most challenging problems, Ocean Engineering may very well be the major for you!
The design of a structure or vehicle to withstand the harsh environment of the ocean or coast (due to waves, currents, pressures, corrosion, etc.), is usually much more complex than the design of that same structure for land application.
Click here for more information about Ocean Engineering career opportunities.
Q: Can I minor in a language if I choose Ocean Engineering as my major?
A: Yes. There currently are and have always been numerous EOE majors who have minored in all languages offered at USNA. Talk to your academic advisor to find out about how to set up and complete a minor in a language. Overloading of courses is not necessary in nearly all cases.
Q: Can I play varsity sports if I choose Ocean Engineering as my major?
A: Absolutely yes. In fact, we have had varsity athletes from all sports (men's and women's) within our program, including numerous team captains.
Q: How many women are Ocean Engineering majors?
A: Enrollment naturally fluctuates, however, EOE usually has one of the highest female enrollments (by numbers and by percentages) out of all of the engineering majors at USNA.
Q: Who can I contact for more information?
A: The following is a list of our EOE faculty with primary specialties listed. Each name links to the individual faculty member's home page -- where additional contact and other information is available.
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