Interdisciplinary and hands-on learning will cover:

• Oceanography
• Field training
• Data management
• Modelling and coding
• Science communication
• Ocean governance
• Innovation and entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• English proficiency development

Scholars will pursue an independent learning project nested, when possible, in a topic connected to their interests, while also gaining exposure to industry and local tech companies and exploring Canadian Indigenous history and ways of knowing. Project topics will vary each year of the program.

The three institutions have complementary strengths that will each provide students with distinct opportunities to learn.

Given the centre’s international partnerships, graduating scholars can access valuable and deep networks within Canada and globally.

• Dalhousie Alumni Network
  Connecting with a network that actively supports continued relationships and mentorship.
• International Ocean Institute Canada
  Connecting with more than 700 notable alumni in over 100 countries, many of whom sit in high-level positions with government.
• Global Ocean Observing System and the Canadian Integrated Ocean Observing System
  Building networks with those at the forefront of ocean observing internationally.
• Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO) network of institutions and Nippon Foundation-POGO Alumni Network for the Ocean (NANO)
  Continued connection with past NF-POGO scholars, joining the network’s activities which include research projects, outreach and science communication. NANO members are also given opportunities to interact with the POGO network of member institutions, for example by attending POGO annual meetings and other relevant international conferences.

The Centre focuses on the development of skills to effectively share knowledge – becoming champions for ocean observation globally.

To further enhance the aim of this program, early career scholars are:

• Provided with learning opportunities that directly relate to activities they can continue post program participation.
• Supported to create an outreach activity as one of their deliverables for their home institution once the program is completed such as a guest lecture at their home institution or a media interview within their home country.