At the Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdansk students acquire interdisciplinary knowledge on the phenomena and processes occurring in the seas, oceans and coastal areas, as well as are taught how to understand the sea as a whole and how to protect it. Moreover, by popularizing the knowledge about the sea among the general population, the Institute improves the understanding of the meaning and role of the Baltic Sea and the responsibility for its protection.

Studies in the field of oceanography are unique as they are realized in Poland at the University of Gdansk only. The courses have been granted accreditation (certificates of high-quality education) by the State Accreditation Committee and the University Accreditation Committee. In 2012, the Department of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdansk received a note of distinction from the Polish Accreditation Committee.