Marine Biology and Oceanography

A program that focuses on the scientific study of the ecology and behavior of microbes, plants, and animals inhabiting oceans, coastal waters, and saltwater wetlands and their interactions with the physical environment. Includes instruction in chemical, physical, and geological oceanography; molecular, cellular, and biochemical studies; marine microbiology; marine botany; ichthyology; mammalogy; marine population dynamics and biodiversity; reproductive biology; studies of specific species, phyla, habitats, and ecosystems; marine paleoecology and paleontology; and applications to fields such as fisheries science and biotechnology.

Much like a botanist who enjoys identifying different plant life while on a hike, a marine biologist loves to spend time in the ocean interacting with marine organisms in their natural habitat. 

As a Marine Biology major, you’ll take courses on marine species’ physiology, behaviors, and interactions. With global populations increasing, societies face mounting issues, such as the ability to meet our growing food and water demands. Marine biologists research ways to help sustain these basic needs while safeguarding sea residents so they aren’t adversely affected. 

Human activities, such as ocean acidification due to rising carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, impact marine life. Your work as a marine biologist is to ensure the preservation and protection of marine animals by developing ways to minimize and prevent the harmful effects people and businesses have on marine life.