Marine Biology, B.S.

The Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology provides students with the skills and knowledge for immediate employment in marine biology-related career tracks or for graduate studies. Coursework emphasizes the diversity of marine organisms as well as their characteristics, interrelationships and interactions with the marine environment. Integrating fieldwork and laboratory studies is a priority with an emphasis on using molecular-based approaches to answer questions regarding the adaptation and resilience of marine organisms and habitats in the face of global climate change and invasive species.

Undergraduate research opportunities range from work on marine microbes and molecular marine ecology to dolphins, tarpon, invasive lionfish, reef-corals and the rich fauna of Antarctica. Students can develop expertise in the culture of marine and freshwater algae, crustaceans, finfish and mollusks, providing them with in-demand skills for employment in either economic or conservation-driven fisheries. Fieldwork is strongly encouraged and is available both locally in the Indian River Lagoon, one of North America’s most diverse estuaries, and through summer field courses in the Galapagos Islands, Peru, Puerto Rico, the Pacific Northwest and other locations.

Admission Requirements

Students intending to apply for admission to a major in the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences are strongly encouraged to complete at least one year each of high school biology, chemistry and physics. Prospective students should also have at least three years of high school mathematics including second-year algebra and trigonometry.

Degree Requirements

Candidates for a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology must complete the minimum course requirements outlined in the following curriculum. Electives are selected in consultation with the faculty advisor to reflect the knowledge a student needs either for employment or graduate school.