Written for the freshman-level oceanography course. It is taken by non-majors seeking to fulfill a science requirement. In this course,students study geological oceanography,physical oceanography,composition of the oceans,biological oceanography,and environmental issues related to oceanography. This text is an essentials version of Introduction to the World's Oceans,5/e. It was developed to be more appropriate for the needs of quarter schools and programs wishing to teach a slightly less rigorous oceans course. (This is not intended for a marine biology course).