
Course in Seawater Chemistry
The Course in Seawater Chemistry Prepares you to understand and measure seawater chemistry, the foundation of oceanography, desalination and the recovery of dissolved resources. You will study its composition and salinity, the car
Prior Knowledge Assessment
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What is the Course in Seawater Chemistry?
The Course in Seawater Chemistry
Prepares you to understand and measure seawater chemistry, the foundation of oceanography, desalination and the recovery of dissolved resources. You will study its composition and salinity, the carbonate system and pH, dissolved gases, nutrients and trace elements, and learn the sampling and analytical methods used in the laboratory and in the field.
Key advantages
- Essential foundations: Knowledge that is useful in oceanography, aquaculture, desalination and environmental work.
- Applied chemistry: From chemical equilibria to real problems in the sector.
- Analytical methods: Sampling, instrumentation and quality control.
- A focused format: Five modules with a direct approach.
- Case study: Interpreting a real chemical dataset.
Programme highlights
- Know the composition: Master the major and minor constituents of seawater.
- Understand pH: Grasp the carbonate system and acidification.
- Analyse samples: Apply reliable sampling and analytical methods.
- Interpret data: Link chemistry to physical and biological processes.
- Boost your career: Strengthen your profile for laboratories, desalination plants, aquaculture and consultancy.
- Train in the chemistry that sustains life and resources in the ocean.
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
Seawater Composition and Salinity
- Major constituents of seawater
- Constancy of proportions
- Definitions of salinity
- Measuring conductivity and salinity
- Salinity variations across the ocean
The Carbonate System and pH
- CO2 equilibria in seawater
- pH and pH scales
- Total alkalinity
- Calcium carbonate saturation
- Ocean acidification
Dissolved Gases and Nutrients
- Dissolved oxygen and oxygen minimum zones
- Other dissolved gases
- Nitrogen, phosphorus and silicon
- Nutrient cycles
- Coastal eutrophication
Trace Elements and Contaminants
- Trace elements and their distribution
- Metals in seawater
- Chemical speciation
- Organic contaminants
- Microplastic pollution
Sampling, Analysis and Interpretation
- Designing a sampling plan
- Instrumental analytical techniques
- Continuous chemical sensors
- Analytical quality control
- Case study: interpreting chemical data
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Science students and graduates: who want to specialise in the marine environment Laboratory technicians: who analyse seawater Desalination and aquaculture professionals: who need to understand water quality Environmental consultants: who interpret water quality data Teachers and lecturers: looking to update their knowledge
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.








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Learning Outcomes
- 01Describe the composition of seawater
- 02Understand salinity
- 03Analyse the carbonate system
- 04Know nutrients and dissolved gases
- 05Apply analytical methods
- 06Interpret chemical data
Career Opportunities
Entry Requirements
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry profile: Studies or training in science (chemistry, biology, marine science, environmental science) or engineering; or professional experience in water analysis or management. Language: A good working level of English to follow classes and materials. Technical requirements: A computer with a stable internet connection, an up-to-date browser and a webcam for live sessions and project presentations. Admissions process: Online application, profile review and a short interview with the academic team. We confirm your start date when you enquire.
Frequently Asked Questions
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