Professional Diploma in Glaciers, Sea Ice and the Polar Ocean

What is this programme?

This professional diploma prepares you to understand how the polar regions work and the role they play in the global climate. The programme covers the dynamics of glaciers and ice sheets, the formation and retreat of sea ice, the oceanography of the Arctic and the Southern Ocean, polar ecosystems, satellite observation of the cryosphere, navigation in polar waters and the governance frameworks that regulate these areas.

What sets this diploma apart: a bipolar view, studying both the Arctic and Antarctica and the differences between them; up-to-date science, with content based on the IPCC assessments of the ocean and cryosphere; satellite data, working with open sea ice and glacier products; a human dimension, covering navigation, Arctic peoples and international governance; and a practical case analysing the observed changes in a specific polar region.

Programme highlights

• Understand the cryosphere: the dynamics of land ice and sea ice.
• Analyse the polar ocean: the oceanography of the Arctic and the Southern Ocean.
• Observe from space: work with satellite data of the cryosphere.
• Know the ecosystems: analyse ice-associated life and its vulnerability.
• Advance your career: towards research, consultancy, science communication and polar tourism.
• Train where climate change is advancing fastest: the programme focuses on the polar regions, where warming is most rapid.

Study plan

Duration and format

At 10 hours a week you would finish in about 80 weeks; at 20 hours a week, in about 40.

What you will learn

• Understand the cryosphere: land ice and sea ice and their role in the climate system.
• Analyse polar oceanography, including its water masses and circulation.
• Interpret satellite data applied to the cryosphere.
• Assess the changes observed at the poles.
• Know the polar ecosystems and their vulnerability.
• Know the governance that regulates the polar regions.

Career outcomes

• Polar research technician: support for scientific projects on the cryosphere.
• Cryosphere data analyst: processing of satellite data.
• Polar environmental consultant: assessment of activities in polar regions.
• Polar navigation adviser: support for voyage planning in ice-covered areas.
• Scientific expedition guide: environmental interpretation in polar tourism.
• Science communicator: communication about the changes taking place at the poles.

Entry requirements

• Entry profile: a degree in Marine Sciences, Geology, Physics, Geography, Environmental Sciences, Nautical Studies or a related qualification; professional experience in navigation, research or polar tourism is also accepted.
• Language skills: sufficient command of the language of instruction to follow the classes and materials. Basic technical English is recommended, as much of the sector's regulations and documentation is in English.
• Technical resources: a computer with a stable internet connection, an up-to-date browser and a camera for live sessions and project presentations.
• Admission process: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team. Admission is provisional until the committee validates your documentation; if the requirements are not met, the full amount is refunded.

How to enrol