The PhD in Ocean Engineering is a research-intensive doctoral program that focuses on advancing scientific knowledge and engineering solutions for ocean and offshore environments. The program provides opportunities for original research in areas such as offshore structures, coastal and harbor engineering, marine renewable energy, ocean resource development, underwater robotics, marine hydrodynamics, ocean environmental engineering, and sustainable ocean technologies. Doctoral candidates conduct advanced research aimed at addressing complex challenges related to the exploration, utilization, and protection of ocean resources while enhancing the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of marine operations. Through rigorous experimentation, computational modeling, field investigations, and dissertation research, students contribute to technological innovations that support the maritime, offshore, and ocean industries. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, offshore energy companies, marine technology organizations, government agencies, and international bodies involved in ocean and coastal development.
NOTE: The university may have additional program-specific eligibility requirements. It is recommended to verify these on the official university website.
Extra Notes
1. Basic Qualifications
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
Both parents are non-Korean nationals, and the applicant holds foreign nationality.
A Korean national residing abroad or a foreign national who has completed their entire education abroad, where the education system is equivalent to Korea’s 12-year primary and secondary education and university curriculum.
2. Academic Qualifications
Master’s Program Applicants: Must hold a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification recognized as higher education.
Doctoral Program Applicants: Must hold a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification recognized as higher education.
※ Applicants who are expected to graduate by August 28, 2026, may also apply. Those who have not yet graduated at the time of application must submit a Certificate of Expected Graduation. The official degree certificate (or diploma) and final academic transcript must be submitted no later than August 28, 2026.
3. Language Requirement
(Must meet at least one of the following criteria)
Test
Eligibility Criteria
TOEFL iBT
68
TOEIC
600
NEW TEPS
279
IELTS
5.5
TOPIK
Level 3
Applicants from English-speaking countries (USA, UK, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and Ireland) are exempt from this requirement.
Language proficiency test scores must be valid as of the application deadline.
Applicants who receive a recommendation (Language Requirement Exemption) from their prospective supervisor at KMOU may apply without submitting a language proficiency test score.