best phd programs in marine biology

Marine Biology and Oceanography Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 35 results

Nicholas School of the Environment

• Durham, NC ·
• Duke University ·
• Graduate School
• · Rating 4.86 out of 5   7 reviews

Duke University ,

Graduate School ,

DURHAM, NC ,

7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.9 stars.

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Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

• Los Angeles, CA ·
• University of Southern California ·

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Northeastern University College of Science

• Boston, MA ·
• Northeastern University ·

Northeastern University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

School of Marine Sciences - William & Mary

• Gloucester Point, VA ·
• William & Mary ·

Blue checkmark.

William & Mary ,

GLOUCESTER POINT, VA ,

Franklin College of Arts and Sciences

• Athens, GA ·
• University of Georgia ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

University of Georgia ,

ATHENS, GA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

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Rosentiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science

• Miami, FL ·
• University of Miami ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   5 reviews

University of Miami ,

MIAMI, FL ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I love RSMAS! The professors and students are wonderful and there are always opportunities to get into the field and learn! .

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College of Letters and Science - UC Santa Barbara

• Santa Barbara, CA ·
• University of California - Santa Barbara ·

University of California - Santa Barbara ,

SANTA BARBARA, CA ,

College of Geosciences - Texas A&M University

• College Station, TX ·
• Texas A&M University ·

Texas A&M University ,

COLLEGE STATION, TX ,

Scripps Institution of Oceanography

• La Jolla, CA ·
• University of California - San Diego ·

University of California - San Diego ,

LA JOLLA, CA ,

College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment - University of Delaware

• Newark, DE ·
• University of Delaware ·

University of Delaware ,

NEWARK, DE ,

College of Arts and Sciences - University of San Diego

• San Diego, CA ·
• University of San Diego ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

University of San Diego ,

SAN DIEGO, CA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

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College of Arts and Sciences - The University of Alabama

• Tuscaloosa, AL ·
• The University of Alabama ·

The University of Alabama ,

TUSCALOOSA, AL ,

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• Biophysics Graduate Programs
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College of Arts and Sciences - University of South Carolina

• Columbia, SC ·
• University of South Carolina ·
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

University of South Carolina ,

COLUMBIA, SC ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says My academic program has given me many opportunities to become a social worker post-graduation. The College of Social Work is great. .

College of Engineering and Science - Florida Institute of Technology

• Melbourne, FL ·
• Florida Institute of Technology ·

Florida Institute of Technology ,

MELBOURNE, FL ,

College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences - University of Maryland, Baltimore County

• Baltimore, MD ·
• University of Maryland, Baltimore County ·

University of Maryland, Baltimore County ,

BALTIMORE, MD ,

Kennedy College of Sciences

• Lowell, MA ·
• University of Massachusetts Lowell ·

University of Massachusetts Lowell ,

LOWELL, MA ,

Halmos College of Arts & Sciences at Nova Southeastern University

• Fort Lauderdale, FL ·
• Nova Southeastern University ·

Nova Southeastern University ,

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says So far it’s been great. My advisor has been very supportive and there are endless opportunities to volunteer or assist others in their ongoing projects. I’ve recently started my AAUS for scientific... .

College of Charleston School of Sciences and Mathematics

• Charleston, SC ·
• College of Charleston ·

College of Charleston ,

CHARLESTON, SC ,

College of Arts and Sciences - University of North Carolina - Wilmington

• Wilmington, NC ·
• University of North Carolina - Wilmington ·
• · Rating 4.67 out of 5   3 reviews

University of North Carolina - Wilmington ,

WILMINGTON, NC ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says As a transfer student from Cape Fear Community College, I received my Bachelor's of Science at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. My overall experience as a transfer student was very good. .

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Texas State University College of Science and Engineering

• San Marcos, TX ·
• Texas State University ·

Texas State University ,

SAN MARCOS, TX ,

College of Arts and Sciences - University of Southern Mississippi

• Hattiesburg, MS ·
• University of Southern Mississippi ·

University of Southern Mississippi ,

HATTIESBURG, MS ,

Featured Review: Other says I am currently a faculty member. I serve as the director for the Army ROTC Department. I decided to enroll at the university of Southern Mississippi because of my relationship with the University. I... .

College of Science and Mathematics - Montclair State University

• Montclair, NJ ·
• Montclair State University ·

Montclair State University ,

MONTCLAIR, NJ ,

Marine Science Research Institute - Jacksonville University

• Jacksonville, FL ·
• Jacksonville University ·

Jacksonville University ,

JACKSONVILLE, FL ,

School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology - University of Hawaii at Manoa

• Honolulu, HI ·
• University of Hawaii at Manoa ·

University of Hawaii at Manoa ,

HONOLULU, HI ,

Graduate School of Oceanography - University of Rhode Island

• Narragansett, RI ·
• University of Rhode Island ·

University of Rhode Island ,

NARRAGANSETT, RI ,

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The 20 Best Colleges for Marine Biology

What’s covered:, how we made this list, 20 best marine biology schools, what are your chances of acceptance to these top marine biology schools.

Do you dream of following the advice of Sebastian and exploring life “under the sea”? As the beloved crab from The Little Mermaid told Ariel, “such wonderful things surround you” in the ocean.

And if you study marine biology, you’ll learn about all the creatures, environment, and life in the sea. The science discipline draws numerous future marine biologists every year. Are you interested in exploring the world of water? If so, check out these 20 top schools for the major.

This list is based on several factors, including the reputation of the program, the median earnings of graduates of the major, the popularity of the marine biology major with the institution, the size of the program relative to the size of the school, and the student-faculty ratio at the larger institution.

1. University of Oregon

Location: Eugene, OR

Undergrad Enrollment: 19,100

Acceptance Rate: 83%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1090-1290/22-29

The University of Oregon’s baccalaureate degree in Marine Biology is one of just a handful of its kind offered on the Pacific Coast. Along with a modern biology curriculum, students experience hands-on, field-based learning. Students spend their time at both the U of O Eugene campus and the renowned Oregon Institute of Marine Biology (OIMB), completing at least three upper-level terms at OIMB.

Marine Biology students have access to internships and research opportunities, including programs offered through OIMB. They may also travel to Panama for a Tropical Marine Biology course, which is offered every other summer. The larger university has many additional study abroad opportunities for Marine Biology students.

2. Syracuse University  

Location: Syracuse, NY

Undergrad Enrollment: 15,200

Acceptance Rate: 69%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1130-1370/25-30

Future marine biologists can major in biology at Syracuse, focusing on specialties in marine biology or other niches. Students can also choose an interdisciplinary major. Either way, they will have access to cutting-edge research experiences and internships.

One noteworthy program is the Marine Ecology of the Mediterranean Sea and North Africa course. The course examines main coastal and marine ecosystems, comparing practices between Europe and the North of Africa. Students will travel through the coast of Spain and visit key ecosystems, research facilities, and special interest areas.

3. Northeastern University

Location: Boston, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 13,900

Acceptance Rate: 20%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1540/33-35

With an emphasis on climate change, Northeastern’s Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology program seeks to prepare future professionals in the field with a foundation in sea life, allowing them to explore topics like ocean and coastal processes, marine biogeochemistry, ecology and evolution of marine organisms, and more. Students grapple with contemporary issues facing marine organisms and ecosystems and participate in experiential learning, including lab and field world and internship opportunities at Northeastern’s Marine Science Center in Nahant, Mass.

Northeastern also provides opportunities in interdisciplinary programs and several study abroad programs. The Three Seas Program, an optional, two-semester program, in particular, is known for its unique approach, combining inquiry-based, global study, fieldwork, and research across the Gulf of Maine, tropical coastal Panama, and the Pacific Northwest.

4. Florida International University 

Location: Miami, FL

Undergrad Enrollment: 48,800

Acceptance Rate: 58%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1110-1260/23-29

Through FIU’s Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology program, students gain a strong foundation in structural and evolutionary developmental biology, physiology, organismal diversity, physical oceanography, and ecology. They have the opportunity to conduct research in both the lab and in the field, exploring the diverse marine life of Florida and the Caribbean.

The Honors in Marine Biology program gives exceptional students the chance to work under faculty mentors, conducting their own original research, completing a thesis paper, and presenting their results at a departmental seminar. 

5. University of California, Santa Barbara

Location: Santa Barbara, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 23,300

Acceptance Rate: 37%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1230-1480/26-33 (currently test-blind)

UCSB prides itself on being one of the few universities in the country to offer an undergraduate major in aquatic biology. The program combines coursework and laboratory and field experience in marine and freshwater sub-disciplines. Thanks to the university’s location, students can take advantage of the Pacific Ocean and the UC system’s protected natural land and water reserves, along with numerous other natural resources. 

Meanwhile, UCSB’s world-famous Marine Science Institute is a leader in ocean and environmental research, involving faculty and graduate students in groundbreaking studies of areas like global environmental change, biological oceanography, and more.

6. Boston University

Undergrad Enrollment: 18,500

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1310-1500/30-34

Offered through the BU Marine Program (BUMP), the BA in Marine Science is an interdisciplinary program with courses in biological, chemical, geological, and physical oceanography. 

Additionally, all majors complete the Marine Semester, a series of four month-long research-based courses, during which students conduct research across renowned New England facilities, along with the Belizean Barrier Reef, together with BU faculty and professional scientists.

7. University of California, Los Angeles

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 31,500

Acceptance Rate: 14%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1290-1520/29-34

UCLA’s Marine Biology major focuses on the study of marine organisms and their environment. Students are required to participate in the Marine Biology Quarter (MBQ), which gives them an opportunity to “live the life of a marine biologist.” Under faculty and graduate assistant guidance, they will design their own research projects, conduct experiments, and present their work. According to the university, some undergraduates have had this research published in major peer-reviewed journals.

8. Auburn University

Location: Auburn, AL

Undergrad Enrollment: 24,600

Acceptance Rate: 85%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1160-1320/25-31

Auburn’s Marine Biology major gives students a foundation in basic biological concepts. They also choose among electives and are required to participate in summer courses offered at marine labs across the country, such as Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Gulf Coast Research Lab. Students are encouraged to undertake internships and research as undergraduates, in order to prepare for careers or advanced study of the subject.

9. Samford University 

Location: Birmingham, AL

Undergrad Enrollment: 3,500

Acceptance Rate: 84%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1060-1240/23-29

Samford’s BS in marine science program seeks to prepare students for a career in the field through hands-on training in marine biology. Students take part in field studies, laboratory research, and aquaculture. Students receive support and mentorship from faculty and have the opportunity to undertake an internship, thanks to assistance from the customizable internship program, which has placed past students at facilities like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Mote Marine Laboratory.

One particularly noteworthy element of the program is the summer experience at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) off the Alabama coast.

10. University of Miami

Location: Coral Gables, FL

Undergrad Enrollment: 11,100

Acceptance Rate: 33%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1250-1420/28-32

The Marine Biology & Ecology (BSMAS) degree at Miami provides students with a strong background in biology and quantitative skills, while allowing them to undertake hands-on research in biomedicine, genomics, evolution, physiology, microbiology, immunology, and ecology. Students have the opportunity to work with diverse faculty in the department while learning core concepts and exploring niche topics.

11. Duke University

Location: Durham, NC

Undergrad Enrollment: 6,600

Acceptance Rate: 8%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1470-1570/34-35

Students majoring in biology at Duke may choose a concentration in marine biology, focusing on the study of organisms in a marine environment. Through the concentration, they will take courses at the acclaimed Duke University Marine Laboratory. They will also participate in lab work and complete a Capstone course.

Students who matriculated in fall 2021 or later may also pursue the Marine Science & Conservation major or minor, an interdisciplinary study of marine systems.

12. Brown University

Location: Providence, RI

Undergrad Enrollment: 7,000

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1440-1560/33-35

Students who pursue a concentration (Brown’s term for major or program of study) in Biology at Brown may choose a track in Marine biology, taking at least three courses in the sub-discipline and participating in research in the field.

Meanwhile, the Department of Earth, Environmental, and Planetary Sciences has a collaborative research program with the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), covering biomedicine and environmental science.

13. University of Washington

Location: Seattle, WA

Undergrad Enrollment: 32,000

Acceptance Rate: 56%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1200-1427/27-33

Marine biology students at UW explore the marine aspects of biodiversity, organismal processes, and ecology and ecosystems, along with the conservation and management responses to ocean change. In addition to core subjects, majors complete an integrative field experience — either research or a field course — at a site like Friday Harbor Labs. 

14. University of California, Santa Cruz

Location: Santa Cruz, CA

Undergrad Enrollment: 17,700

Acceptance Rate: 65%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1150-1370/23-30

The marine biology major at UC Santa Cruz emphasizes basic principles that help people understand the processes that shape life in marine environments. Many facilities are located in the Coastal Biology Building on the UC Santa Cruz Coastal Science Campus. Students have plenty of research and experiential learning opportunities, including quarter-long field programs, as well as opportunities to work in marine-oriented federal agencies, state agencies, research institutions, and nonprofit organizations.

15. Nova Southeastern University

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Undergrad Enrollment: 4,900

Acceptance Rate: 76%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1030-1240/20-27

NSU seeks to give students the opportunity to “learn more about the unexplored.” As an A.B.S. Marine Biology student, you will experience NSU’s Oceanographic Campus, where you’ll have access to the Guy Harvey Oceanographic Research Center and see marine life right from your classroom. You will take part in research while diving into electives focusing on topics like zoology, sharks, and coral communities. 

16. Rollins College

Location: Winter Park, FL

Undergrad Enrollment: 2,500

Acceptance Rate: 61%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1120-1330/24-32

Rollins’ marine biology program takes full advantage of Rollins’ setting on the Florida peninsula. Students gain hands-on experience, conducting graduate-level lab and field research in the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and Maine. They also receive personal attention from faculty, who help them prepare for exciting internships and volunteer work in the field. 

There are several special opportunities, such as the Student-Faculty Collaborative Program, which allows students to work alongside a faculty member on real research.

17. Harvard University 

Location: Cambridge, MA

Undergrad Enrollment: 9,900

Acceptance Rate: 5%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1460-1580/33-35

Harvard’s Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology is home to the Integrative Biology concentration, through which students can pursue a pathway in Marine Biology & Biological Oceanography. 

Students have a breadth of experiential learning opportunities. For example, by participating in Biology and Evolution of Invertebrate Animals, they can travel to the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro, in the Caribbean side of Panama over spring break, where they will explore diverse marine ecosystems.

18. Eckerd College

Location: Saint Petersburg, FL

Undergrad Enrollment: 2,000

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1090-1285/24-29

Eckerd’s Marine Science program gives students personal attention during coursework and fieldwork. There are numerous opportunities to conduct real-world marine biology work and research. 

The “Scientist at Sea” program, for example, allows students to plan, execute, and create professional research projects. Meanwhile, students can learn field research by conducting population surveys of bottlenose dolphins in Boca Ciega Bay through the Eckerd College Dolphin Project. They also have access to prestigious internships at institutions like the U.S. Geological Survey Center, the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, and many other organizations.

19. University of South Carolina

Location: Columbia, SC

Undergrad Enrollment: 26,700

Acceptance Rate: 68%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1140-1340/25-31

As a marine science major, students will obtain interdisciplinary knowledge in marine science, while gaining exposure to real field experiences. They will begin their studies by spending three weeks at the Baruch Institute in North Inlet Estuary in Georgetown, before completing coursework with lab components. They will also partake in research projects with faculty, seminars, and visits to industry and government organizations.

20. Florida Southern College

Location: Lakeland, FL

Undergrad Enrollment: 2,700

Acceptance Rate: 50%

Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1110-1285/24-30

Students learn well beyond the classroom through FSU. The college gives students the opportunity to work with faculty on independent studies, research projects, off-campus expeditions, scientific conferences, and other activities. There is a strong outdoor component, and students will constantly be in the field observing and collecting data while studying in a diverse environment.

Students can also travel to locations like Costa Rica, Jamaica, and the Bahamas to further their explorations.

Many of the colleges and universities on this list are highly selective, and others still have competitive marine biology programs. How do you know your chances of admission? Try our free chancing engine . We’ll estimate your odds of acceptance at these and other schools, using your real data. Plus, we’ll offer tips to help you improve your profile.

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Registrar's Office

• Graduate Academic Programs >
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The Marine Biology and Ecology (MBE) graduate program focuses on a wide range of field, laboratory, and theoretical coursework in research areas such as coral reef studies, biological oceanography, and marine biology, fisheries biology, and the biology and behavior of marine animals. MBE Ph.D. students can choose from a diversity of research areas and coursework that provide a broad educational perspective. 

Admission Requirements

Most successful applicants have a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences including a strong foundation in physical sciences (chemistry, physics, calculus) and basic biological sciences. However, applicants with a diversity of other degrees also are successful. Courses in marine biology and oceanography are not necessary for entrance into the program. Applicants should contact specific faculty to discuss mutual research interests. The GRE score is not required for admission. Applicants whose first language is not English must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a score of at least 550. All application requirements are available  here .

Curriculum Requirements

Each student will design a customized curriculum based on their research focus with advisor approval.

Minimum of 18 course credits and 12 dissertation credits.

No core courses are required. Students choose courses with the advice of their committee. 

• At the end of the second year, a written qualifying examination is required of all Ph.D. students that focuses on the subject matter needed to complete the research proposed for the dissertation.
• The purpose of the qualifying examination is to demonstrate that the MBE doctoral student has the necessary understanding and expertise in research and related fields to complete the dissertation research. The topic areas should be agreed upon by the student, chair, and the dissertation committee soon after the proposal defense. The student is strongly encouraged to discuss the specific topics with each member of the dissertation committee, well in advance of the examination, to clarify the expected questions. The committee is encouraged to provide specific reading or areas of knowledge they will test the student on.
• The qualifying exam is 4 - 5 partial days (4 hours per day) on questions written by their committee. It is the advisor’s responsibility to provide the test and to have the student’s committee grade it in a timely manner. The scheduling of the exam sessions is the responsibility of the student's advisor, but in all cases the written portion of the examination shall be completed within one week.
• An additional oral qualifying examination may be required by the student's committee, but may not serve as a substitute for the written examination, which is a Graduate School requirement.
• The decision of passing or failing the qualifying examination rests with the dissertation committee. The qualifying examination (written and, if required, oral) must be successfully completed, as documented by the dissertation committee, before the student can be admitted to candidacy.
• In the event of a failure, a student may be re-examined once upon the recommendation of the student's committee in consultation with the academic committee. If permitted, the reexamination must be given before the end of the following semester.
• Attendance to the MBE seminars is required every semester. 
• Students entering the MBE Ph.D. program with a Master's degree begin to give seminars in their first year.
• Ph.D. students are expected to be a Teaching Assistant (TA) for two courses while pursuing their degree.
• The mandatory TA program will include training of new TAs, evaluation of their performance, and recognition of excellence. The goal is to make the experience as valuable as possible for the TA, the faculty, and the students taking our courses.
• A training session and two teaching opportunities are offered as courses in educational training (RSM 771, RSM 772, RSM 773). Students will be registered accordingly.
• Specific requirements for TAs are outlined in the Rosenstiel School Student Handbook.

Sample Plan of Study

The mission of the Marine Biology and Ecology (MBE) Ph.D. program is to train the next generation of scientists in the fundamental skills, knowledge, and practice of biology of the oceanic environment. Through coursework and independent research, we strive to prepare our students for positions in academia, government, or industry in jobs that leverage their skills in critical thinking, current technical knowledge such as statistical analysis and modeling, and understanding of the global marine environment. Our program commits to inspire graduates to continued scholarship, service, and innovation in an environment that is inclusive and diverse.

The goal is for Ph.D. students to demonstrate mastery of the fundamental skills, knowledge, and practice of biology of the oceanic environment, and commitment to scholarship, service, and innovation in an environment that is inclusive and diverse.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will demonstrate a broad understanding of marine and atmospheric science and an awareness of how scientific research in their topical areas bears on current human and societal issues.
• Students will be able to critically evaluate scientific literature, review previous knowledge on a topic, formulate testable hypotheses, and skillfully use available data and tools to advance knowledge in a topical area. They will be able to conduct high-quality, doctoral research as evidenced by their dissertation research.
• Students will demonstrate advanced oral and written communication skills, and be able to effectively communicate scientific information to a peer audience.

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The 10 Best Marine Biology Colleges in the US

More than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered in water, and of this water, more than 96 percent is held by oceans. These statistics certainly shed some light on why the field of marine biology is incredibly important. What happens amongst animals, plants, organisms, and ecosystems under the sea can have a drastic effect on the entire planet, including human beings.

Today, students who graduate from a marine biology program are greatly in-demand. Many go on to enter enriching professional careers after their studies, working as environmental consultants, marine engineers, research scientists, policy advisors, and much more. For those who prefer the classroom, graduate and PhD opportunities abound for marine biology students eager to continue exploring the academic field.

Choosing the right university to study marine biology can give students the scholastic foundation and field experience they need to kick-start a promising career.

Here are 10 of the best colleges in the U.S. to study marine biology.

University of Miami (Coral Gables, FL)

Located just a few miles from the shores of southern Florida, the University of Miami’s Department of Marine Biology and Ecology gives passionate students the classroom education and hands-on training they need to become experts in the most important issues facing the world’s oceans today.

Undergraduates in the Marine Biology and Ecology track have a huge choice of degree programs , including Geological Sciences, Marine Affairs, Oceanography, and Marine Science. Students can elect a focus based on research interest or consider what’s most relevant to their intended future career: in the past, graduates of the University of Miami program have gone on to prestigious positions in conservation, environmental policy and law, business, and much more. 

For post-grad students, the university offers a Master of Professional Science with degree tracks in Marine Mammal Science, and Tropical Marine Ecosystem Management.

Boston University (Boston, MA)

One of the top private research universities anywhere in the country, Boston University offers inspiring coursework and exciting opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students to pursue cutting-edge research in the field of marine biology.

The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach : bringing together faculty and resources from Boston University’s Department of Biology and its Department of Earth & Environment, so that students can get involved in a wide range of marine biology topic areas such as evolution, ecology, and conservation science. 

Moreover, hands-on research areas cover a number of critical ocean issues like climate change and overfishing. During their time at Boston University, students can continually benefit from the school’s ties with local organizations in the greater Boston area including the New England Aquarium.

Samford University (Birmingham, AL)

Attracting science students from across the country with its small classes, one-to-one faculty attention, and emphasis on real-world experience, the marine science bachelor’s program at Samford University gives students the foundation they need to excel in the marine biology field.

A key feature of Samford’s marine biology program is the required semester students spend working at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. 

Located off the coast of Alabama in Mobile Bay, it is the state’s primary center for marine research and education . During their time at the lab, students benefit from the mentorship of lab faculty and the chance to conduct up-close marine field research: an unparalleled experience that can benefit students immensely when it’s time to to apply for grad school or head out into the workforce. 

University of California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA)

Students interested in marine animals and their environment will find a thriving marine biology program at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Coming under the college’s Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, the marine biology major introduces students to a robust life sciences core curriculum , along with research projects that get students out of the classroom and amongst the sea life they are studying. 

A favorite for students is the Marine Biology Quarter (MBQ) in which undergrads experience what life is really like for a marine biologist. During this hands-on time for experimentation and data collection, students will interact with not only expert science faculty members, but also a cadre of sharks, clownfish, dolphins, pufferfish, and all sorts of other non-matriculating marine visitors to their vibrant classroom-at-sea.

University of California, Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara, CA)

One of the only colleges where undergrads can get a major in aquatic biology , the University of California, Santa Barbara, is a top choice for students seeking a broader aquatic education that encompasses not only marine organisms and oceanography, but also the study of freshwater ecosystems.

The uniqueness of the aquatic biology major sets up undergrads to enter a fulfilling career in conservation, fisheries, water quality, and more. On the other hand, many graduating students go on to complete a master’s education or join the PhD track. 

Either way, during their time at UC Santa Barbara, students will benefit from challenging science coursework complemented by field experience at outdoor labs that take learners into the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Barbara Channel, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and beyond.

Auburn University (Auburn, AL)

Home to an expansive biological sciences department, Auburn University offers marine biology students the freedom to get involved with interdisciplinary research projects across campus and beyond. It’s not unusual for students to interact with local organizations like the Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit or the Auburn Group in Ecology, as well as international groups like the Organization for Tropical Studies.

Combining an academic science curriculum with cross-campus and real-world field research gives marine biology students at Auburn a head start cultivating their future careers. Key areas of focus at the program include marine evolution, genetics, ecological interactions, and much more. Wherever students choose to direct their focus, they will find passionate faculty members across the school who are eager to include undergrads in the exciting scientific work happening every day at Auburn.

Northeastern University (Boston, MA)

One of the top 50 universities in the United States according to U.S. News & World Report , Northeastern University is known for its robust research opportunities, many of which emerge from the school’s significant research grants from the National Institute of Science.

Marine biology students at Northeastern will undoubtedly benefit from this substantial science funding. The school offers a marine biology bachelor’s degree, enabling students to graduate with a core foundation in marine sciences as well as specialized experience in their fields of interest – including the option to take a pre-veterinary track.

Northeastern is also known for its Three Seas Program , an elective option that lets marine biology students spend a year doing fieldwork in New England, Panama, and the U.S. Pacific Coast. 

Florida International University (Miami, FL)

The Marine Sciences Program at Florida International University takes spectacular advantage of the college’s location on the coast of Miami – giving students access to exciting field research opportunities amidst South Florida’s rich and varied marine ecosystem.

The interdisciplinary program at FIU offers a marine biology major and minor degree option to undergraduate students, while graduate students with an interest in marine biology can study under faculty in related departments like Biological Sciences or Earth and Environment. In addition, the school runs a selective marine biology/biology cohort program for undergrads in the marine biology or general biology departments. 

Studying together at FIU’s Biscayne Bay Campus, students accepted into the program get close mentorship from world-class faculty, priority research opportunities, and early registration for some labs.

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (Syracuse, NY)

Acclaimed as the nation’s premier institution for the study of environmental science and natural resource management, the College of Environmental Science and Forestry, part of the State University of New York (SUNY), attracts many students with an academic passion for aquatic and marine biology.

The school’s aquatic program has achieved global recognition for training students to become aquatic science professionals. 

Along with studying a core curriculum of math and science, students delve deep into the world of marine and freshwater ecosystems, learning how these valuable natural systems can be understood and protected. Students are encouraged to broaden this scientific education with subjects like natural history, economics, communications, and social science, ultimately positioning graduates to pursue careers in government agencies, private consultancies, environmental NGOs, and more.

Oregon Institute of Marine Biology at the University of Oregon (Charleston, OR)

One of the only places on the Pacific Coast where undergrads can get a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology at the University of Oregon combines rigorous in-classroom biology study with hands-on field experience at the school’s marine laboratory campus in Charleston, Oregon – famous for its spectacular scenery on the rugged Oregon coast.

A number of internship placements and research opportunities are available to students, including international options such as a Tropical Marine Biology Course in Central America. 

In addition to supporting undergraduate students to get a world-class education in marine biology, the University of Oregon also offers graduate studies in biology for masters students and PhD candidates, who can choose to focus on marine organisms and ecosystems within the broader biology department.

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Marine Biology (Ph.D.)

Why pursue a P h .D. in marine biology at UNH?

Our marine biology Ph.D. program will help you a dvance your career a s you seek to understand and protect marine and estuarine ecosystems and the organisms that inhabit them. F aculty in our program use marine organisms as model systems for molecular phylogeny, cellular metabolism and neurobiology, and study the structure and function of marine ecosystems. You’ll have the opportunity to focus on basic research or work in more applied areas such as aquaculture and fisheries . Our graduates now lead agencies involved in managing valuable marine resources, teach marine biology in academic and public settings, own aquaculture companies, and work in research.

Program highlights

Our location, faculty and laboratories makes UNH one of the best institutions from which to obtain a graduate degree in marine biology. Our faculty have expertise ranging from molecular biology to ecology and fisheries, and their research programs often span disciplines and use a variety of methods and technologies to address marine-related questions and issues. The main UNH campus in Durham is located about five miles from the Great Bay Estuary, home of the UNH Jackson Estuarine Laboratory, and 30 miles from the coastline and the UNH Coastal Marine Laboratory. Each of these laboratories supports a number of research vessels used by faculty, staff and students. Students can become certified research divers through our strong dive program. Finally, there are several state-of-the-art research resources on campus, including a DNA sequencing facility, an aquaculture laboratory, and various microscope and instrumentation centers.

Potential career areas

• Aquaculture
• Aquarium industry
• Environmental consulting
• Environmental protection and resource management
• Fisheries management and research
• Habitat restoration
• Marine/environmental outreach
• Marine policy
• Nonprofit organizations
• Research diving

Contact Information

Curriculum & Requirements

Program description.

The Marine Biology (MB) option is intended for students interested in marine, coastal, and estuarine ecosystems, and the organisms that inhabit them, at all levels of inquiry. Some UNH faculty use marine organisms as model systems for molecular phylogeny, cellular metabolism, and neurobiology, while others study the structure and function of marine ecosystems. Some faculty members focus primarily on basic research; others work in more applied areas such as aquaculture and fisheries; many combine the two. Students who have earned advanced degrees at UNH lead agencies involved in managing valuable marine resources, teach marine biology in academic and public settings, own aquaculture companies, or earn a living as researchers. In addition to on­-campus facilities, UNH owns the Coastal Marine Laboratory and the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory , and a range of research vessels. UNH has an excellent SCUBA diving program for students interested in becoming certified to dive as part of their research. The Marine Biology option is also affiliated with UNH’s School of Marine Sciences and Ocean Engineering .

Requirements for the Program

Ph.d. degree requirements.

Students work with their advisor and their Doctoral Guidance Committee to plan a program of study including the required core courses and competencies, and develop a viable research proposal. The Guidance Committee is normally established by the end of the first semester, and should meet by the end of the second semester. The student presents to the Guidance Committee a preliminary research proposal in which the soundness, originality, and feasibility of the planned research are clearly described. The Guidance Committee is responsible for approving the proposal, and also oversees the qualifying examination through which the student is admitted to doctoral candidacy. The Doctoral Dissertation Committee is established at this point. To earn the Ph.D. degree, students must complete an original dissertation project, present the results at a public seminar, pass an oral dissertation defense consisting of questions from members of the Dissertation Committee, and have the dissertation approved by the Dissertation Committee and accepted by the Graduate School.

Number of Credits Required

There is no specific credit requirement for the Ph.D., though students must take required core courses and meet competency requirements.

Up to 8 credits of graduate credit from another institution may be transferred, provided the credits were not counted toward another degree, and the course grade was a B or higher. Petitions requesting transfer credit must be supported by the advisor and graduate committee, and approved by the UNH Graduate School.

Required Courses, Competencies, and Electives

All students in the Marine Biology Graduate Program are required to take:

1. BIOL 901 Introductory Graduate Seminar : first-semester course focuses on key information and skills for a successful transition into the graduate program, familiarizing students with program requirements and faculty and providing an opportunity to meet others in their cohort.

2. Two courses in contemporary techniques: Students must take two courses in this competency category, with one course needing to be quantitative. Students should consult their advisor or the graduate program coordinator to determine the courses that fulfill this category.

3. One course in writing/communication: This may be fulfilled by previous graduate coursework (as determined by the student’s advisor and committee), or by taking one graduate-level course. Recommendations often include coursework in professional writing and communication: BIOL 902 Writing and Publishing Science is taught fall semester, and open to students at any stage of the program. BIOL 950 Scientific Communication is usually taught in spring.

4. One marine-based course: This may be fulfilled by previous graduate coursework (as determined by the student’s advisor and committee), or by taking one graduate-level course that has a marine focus.

5. Field requirement: This requirement may be fulfilled by either taking a graduate-level course that has a significant field component as part of the course, or by conducting field research in support of the student's thesis research.

6. Ph.D. students will be required to be a Teaching Assistant for one semester, or demonstrate prior teaching experience.

Additional Information/Requirements

All students in the Marine Biology Graduate Program are expected to present their research in public seminars (including the UNH Graduate Research Conference), and acquire teaching and/or mentoring experience.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Core Knowledge: Demonstrate expert knowledge of the subdiscipline relevant to their research project and general knowledge of the broader discipline of marine biology.
• Critical Thinking: Critique, evaluate, and integrate qualitative and quantitative biological research and methods to develop original hypotheses.
• Research: Synthesize research methods and data analysis techniques to conduct an independent and original research project that contributes new knowledge to address a gap in the field.
• Communication: Ability to effectively communicate scientific information, concepts, theories, and methods to professional colleagues (specialists), invested parties, and the general public.
• Professionalism: Conduct research ethically and responsibly and intellectually engage with the broader scientific community. 

Application Requirements & Deadlines

Applications must be completed by the following deadlines in order to be reviewed for admission:

• Fall : January 15 (priority*); August 1 (final) *Applications completed by Jan. 15 will be given priority consideration for admission and financial support. Applications completed after Jan. 15 will be considered based on openings and funding.
• Spring : N/A
• Summer : N/A
• Special : N/A

Application fee: $65; Underrepresented U.S. minority applicants to this program may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Please contact Dr. Dovev Levine ( [email protected] ) for more details

Campus : Durham

New England Regional : No

New England Regional : VT

Accelerated Masters Eligible : No

New Hampshire Residents

Students claiming in-state residency must also submit a Proof of Residence Form . This form is not required to complete your application, but you will need to submit it after you are offered admission or you will not be able to register for classes.

Transcripts

If you attended UNH or Granite State College (GSC) after September 1, 1991, and have indicated so on your online application, we will retrieve your transcript internally; this includes UNH-Durham, UNH-Manchester, UNH Non-Degree work and GSC. 

If you did not attend UNH, or attended prior to September 1, 1991, then you must upload a copy (PDF) of your transcript in the application form. International transcripts must be translated into English.

If admitted , you must then request an official transcript be sent directly to our office from the Registrar's Office of each college/university attended. We accept transcripts both electronically and in hard copy:

• Electronic Transcripts : Please have your institution send the transcript directly to [email protected] . Please note that we can only accept copies sent directly from the institution.
• Paper Transcripts : Please send hard copies of transcripts to: UNH Graduate School, Thompson Hall- 105 Main Street, Durham, NH 03824. You may request transcripts be sent to us directly from the institution or you may send them yourself as long as they remain sealed in the original university envelope.

Transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions must be submitted and applicants must disclose any previous academic or disciplinary sanctions that resulted in their temporary or permanent separation from a previous post-secondary institution. If it is found that previous academic or disciplinary separations were not disclosed, applicants may face denial and admitted students may face dismissal from their academic program.

Letters of recommendation: 3 required

Recommendation letters submitted by relatives or friends, as well as letters older than one year, will not be accepted.

Personal Statement/Essay Questions

Prepare a brief but careful statement regarding:

• Reasons you wish to do graduate work in this field, including your immediate and long-range objectives.
• Your specific research or professional interest and experiences in this field.

Important Notes

All applicants are encouraged to contact programs directly to discuss program-specific application questions.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early if they wish to be considered for financial and priority consideration.

GRE Not Required:

The GRE (general or topical) is NOT REQUIRED for admission by any of the programs in the Department of Biological Sciences.

International Applicants

Prospective international students are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent examination scores. English Language Exams may be waived if English is your first language. If you wish to request a waiver, then please visit our Test Scores webpage for more information.

Inquire with the Department about Research Interests

As part of your application process, we recommend touching base with the academic department or specific faculty about your research interests, fit with the department, and available space. You can  Submit an Extended Inquiry   and we will inform your desired academic program about your interest. By submitting an inquiry form, you are not guaranteed to hear back from specific faculty. This can be a helpful step before going through the full application process.

Explore Program Details

Faculty directory.

Applying Guide

If you are interested in a MS or PhD program within UNH’s Department of Biological Sciences (options of Integrative and Organismal Biology or Marine Biology), it is important to contact potential thesis mentors (professors) before applying to our program . You can find a directory of relevant mentors in the “FACULTY DIRECTORY.” It is never too early to contact potential thesis mentors, but we suggest contacting them between August and October of the year before you expect to start your degree (for example, contact a mentor in September 2020 if interested in applying by January 2021 for full consideration to begin as a graduate student in Fall 2021). However, you should never be afraid to reach out to a prospective mentor as graduate opportunities can open throughout the year.

How do you contact potential advisors? After identifying professors whose interest align with yours, send them an email to introduce yourself and your interests. This email should contain the following:

• A brief introduction of who you are and your current status
• Your interests broadly
• Why you are interested in this professor’s work and how it aligns with your own interests
• Attachments of CV or resume, and unofficial transcripts

Still intimidated? Use the text below labeled “Email Template” to help you contact a professor.

Can I contact more than one professor in the Department of Biological Sciences or at UNH? Absolutely! Graduate positions are very competitive, and often a professor can only take on one or two students each year (if any). Thus, it’s important to contact as many professors as possible, provided that their research aligns with your interests. You can let professors know who else you are contacting within the department or university when you contact them (see template below).

What if I don’t get a response? Try again! Professors are very busy, and can receive hundreds of emails a day. Sometimes this results in slow reply times, or simply emails getting missed or lost. Wait at least a week, and then try to send again. If after three tries you still do not get a response, this likely means the professor is not taking on any graduate students in the near future.

Other general tips and advice for applying to graduate school: Take time to think about why you want to go to graduate school and conduct research (and communicate this clearly when reaching out to prospective mentors). Before contacting prospective mentors, take some time to learn about their research (either via webpages, their publications, or other resources). Get help from advisors, your university career centers, and others for updating your resume or CV, ensuring that you highlight any research or scientific experiences, important courses taken, skills, and awards received.

Email Template

If you are potentially interested in working with one or more professors towards a MS or PhD in Biological Sciences at the University of New Hampshire, you can use this template email to introduce yourself to these potential advisors.

Please note that you should contact each professor individually (it’s okay to contact more than one faculty member in our department!); individualize your responses to each professor, particularly paragraphs #2 and #3). Also know that this is simply a template; prospective students do not need to follow these instructions exactly when reaching out to prospective mentors. We just hope this helps you get started and give you confidence in contacting faculty!

Dear Dr. [insert professor’s full name here]:

Paragraph 1: Introduce yourself! State your name, educational status and history (including GPA and major and/or degree. If you have graduated, include when you graduated and your current position.), and what semester and year you are aiming to start your graduate studies.

Paragraph 2: Discuss your relevant qualifications and experience that make you an ideal candidate for our graduate program. This may include specific skills you have, research experiences, internships, publications or presentations, and relevant coursework.

Paragraph 3: Describe your specific interests within the field of Biological Sciences? How do these interests align with this professor’s work? What about this professor’s work excites you? Be specific when possible, demonstrating your own efforts to understand this professor’s research.

Thank you for your time in reading this email and your consideration. I have attached my [resume/CV; make sure to attach!] and unofficial transcripts [attach]. I would enjoy an opportunity to chat with you further about potential opportunities as a graduate student in your research group.

[Insert your full name here]

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• University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa

Marine Biology Graduate Program

Creating future leaders in marine science, welcome to the marine biology graduate program site, begin your adventure.

The Marine Biology Graduate Program is an interdisciplinary program co-administered by the College of Natural Sciences and the School of Ocean and Earth Sciences and Technology, offering MS and PhD degrees in Marine Biology. Marine biological studies at the University of Hawaiʻi have a long history of excellent research and graduate training in highly competitive programs like Botany, Microbiology, Oceanography, and Zoology. The Marine Biology Graduate Program provides graduate students access to experts in all of these disciplines. We encourage you to have a look and explore what we offer.

Megan Donahue and Celia Smith, Co-Directors

What we offer

The faculty and students in this program have access to one of largest coral reef habitats in the United States including the Main Hawaiian Islands, the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, and the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. The unique location of the Hawaiian Archipelago in the central North Pacific Ocean makes it one of the most remote locations in the world allowing the processes that govern adaptation and evolution in the marine environment to be studied with minimal anthropogenic influence. The program emphasizes scientific training in marine biology as a high demand, interdisciplinary occupation for the future.

Degrees Available

• Master's Plan A in Marine Biology
• Doctorate in Marine Biology

Prospective graduate students may apply for either degree objective.

Undergraduate MB Degree

Although we are not affiliated with the undergraduate Marine Biology program, we provide a link to it here for your convenience.

Sponsorship

Identification of a sponsor is not required to apply. However, students must be sponsored by a Marine Biology faculty member to be admitted. Thus, it is in the applicant's best interest to contact potential sponsors well before the application deadline to discuss research intents & goals and to ask if they can provide research space and mentoring during your graduate study.

Prospective Students

Students are expected to have strong undergraduate or MS training in biological oceanography, biology, botany, environmental science, marine biology, microbiology, zoology, or other life sciences. We encourage you to prepare academically before applying to the program, as the time required to take courses in order to have the necessary knowledge after enrollment may hinder your graduate progress in the program.

Our partners

This program takes advantage of the 40+ faculty members whose research interests span the study of marine ecosystems, marine biogeochemical processes, reef and oceanic fisheries, and human/marine interactions. We also partner with state and federal agencies such as the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center for NOAA, the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources, and the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to offer research and internship opportunities.

Discover more

We invite you to explore our site and learn more about what the Program has to offer.

• Admissions Requirements Review all requirements for getting into the Program.
• MBGP Faculty Meet Program Faculty.
• MBGP Students Learn about students in the MBGP.
• News and Events Go here for up to date info on current events, job and volunteer opportunities, and announcements.
• Contact Us Feel free to reach out to us for additional information.

"Don't wait any longer. Dive in the ocean, Leave and let the sea be you." Rumi

• MBGP Intranet

Graduate Division

• Admission to Graduate School
• Current MBGP Graduate Students
• Important Forms
• International Students

More Resources

• College of Natural Sciences (CNS)
• School of Life Sciences (SoLS)
• School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST)
• Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB)

An equal opportunity/ affirmative action institution Use of this site implies consent with our Usage Policy copyright © 2021 University of Hawaiʻi Marine Biology Graduate Program

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Contact UH Mānoa

Ph.D. in Marine Science and Conservation

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 25 (15 in Beaufort and 9 in Durham)
• Students: 38
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: December 7

James Hench Director of Graduate Studies Duke Marine Laboratory 135 Duke Marine Lab Road Beaufort, NC 28516-9721

Phone: (252) 504-7585

Email: [email protected]

• https://nicholas.duke.edu/academics/doctoral-degrees
• https://nicholas.duke.edu/marinelab

Program Description

The PhD in MSC  is designed to ensure that students receive detailed training in a particular discipline of marine natural or social science, while being exposed to sufficient interdisciplinary knowledge that they are able to synthesize information from both the social and natural sciences and apply that information to policy-making.  These students will be prepared for careers either in university teaching or research, or outside of the university involving the application of science to policy-making. 

Doctoral students in MSC emphasize research as the major part of their degree programs.  The committee, chaired by the student’s faculty advisor, will recommend which of the program’s required courses students should take along with any additional courses, and generally help to shape the student’s research program.

The bulk of a student's time will be spent at the Duke Marine Lab in Beaufort, NC. Students often spend one or two semesters taking graduate level classes on the Durham campus before moving to Beaufort to complete their research; however, residence in Durham is not a requirement.

In addition to MSC and other course work, MSC students are required to present short research update seminars in years 2-4 of their program, complete a preliminary examination, and complete a dissertation. The dissertation is presented in a public seminar and defended to the committee in a dissertation examination.

• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Admission and Enrollment Statistics
• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Marine Science and Conservation: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline:  December 7

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required
• Résumé: Required
• GRE Scores: GRE General (Optional)
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Writing Sample None required

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

Integrative, Comparative & Marine Biology, Ph.D.

Among Public National Universities, U.S. News & World Report

Featured in the Fiske Guide to Colleges

Nationally, Best Online Bachelor's Programs, U.S. News & World Report

Our alumni work in:

Conduct research at a university or college.

Use your knowledge and skills to conduct research for government organizations.

Design and develop technologies to research and solve marine-related issues.

Influence marine policy with your advanced knowledge and skills.

Become faculty at a university or college.

Develop a research plan

Present and defend a research plan

Answer questions regarding their research field

Communicate his or her research to a broadly trained public audience

Write research in the form of a manuscript for publication in a scientific journal

“ The department has a wide array of interests, especially centered around the marine environment, that cultivate a rich academic community. With the addition of very friendly faculty and students, it's a hard place to leave. ”

Advance Your Research

The Doctor of Philosophy program offers a broad background and overview of the fields comprising marine biology and prepares you for professional and leadership positions.

This research degree program serves students with interests in conducting research in academia, industry and government; individuals who intend to become faculty in undergraduate teaching institutions; managers in technology-based industries and policy makers in government.

Interested in teaching? The program includes a teaching practicum with classroom instruction in pedagogical techniques and technologies along with lecture experience under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

Diverse Research Areas

Choose from diverse research areas and coursework that provide a broad educational perspective including coastal and estuarine biology, crustacean biology, marine mammalogy, and molecular biology and systematics of marine organisms.

Sample Courses in Integrative, Comparative & Marine Biology, Ph.D.

How do i apply to the integrative, comparative & marine biology, ph.d. program.

You are required to submit the following to the Graduate School (please do not send items to the department):

• An application for graduate admission
• Official transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate)
• Three recommendations by individuals in professionally relevant fields
• Current curriculum vitae
• Detailed summary of M.S. thesis research (maximum of three pages)
• Statement of interest for Ph.D. research (maximum of three pages)
• Reprints or copies of any publications (if applicable)

Admission Deadlines & Requirements

Information: ph.d. integrative, comparative, and marine biology.

• Complete applications are reviewed for admission by the program as they are received.
• All application and supporting documents must be received by the published deadline.

Coordinator

• Dr. Stephanie Kamel 910-962-2841 [email protected]  

Location/Delivery Method

• Main Campus

Deadlines (11:59 p.m. EST)

• Deadline: October 15, 2023
• Deadline:  April 15, 2024
• Priority Consideration: February 15, 2024
• Space Available Deadline: May 15, 2024

Transcripts

• One official transcript is required from each U.S. post-secondary institution attended. Refer to the Getting Started page for international transcript instructions.

Test Scores

• None Required

Recommendations

• 3 recommendation letters by individuals in professionally relevant fields.

Additional Requirements

• Upload Supplemental Documents After Application Submission Upload Supplemental Documents
• Curriculum Vitae
• Ph.D. Research:   Statement of Interest for Ph.D. research, including a summary of relevant experience (maximum of three pages)
• Publications:  Copies of publications (if available)
• Degree Requirements:   A bachelor’s degree in biology or a related discipline from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university or its equivalent at an international institution based on a four-year program.
• Research Requirements:   A record of research, applied learning or relevant professional experience.
• UNCW Faculty: Prospective students should make initial contact with the faculty with whom you wish to work  (Meet Our Team - Faculty).
• Note:   Under certain circumstances, a student in the M.S. biology or marine biology program may, with the support of their faculty advisor, apply to the Ph.D. program rather than completing their M.S. degree. Students who choose this path after their first year of core courses and research planning must complete a new application, including letters of recommendation, to enter the Ph.D. program.

See Everything happening in the department

Related Programs

Coastal and ocean policy, m.s..

The Master of Coastal and Ocean Policy (MCOP) is a professional, non-thesis, interdisciplinary degree program that immerses students in a unique curriculum aimed at advancing technical knowledge of coastal and ocean processes and resources as well as the tools and concepts of the policy making.

Geographic Information Science, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

UNCW is accredited with the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) to offer a certificate in Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT).

Graduate Programs

Graduate programs to consider, biology, m.s..

Specialize in ocean sciences, technology and marine policy.

Marine Biology, M.S.

A program that prepares students as managers of coastal and marine resources, trained to deal with contemporary problems in the environment; and provides a broad–based graduate program allowing for specialization in the diverse fields of inquiry under the marine biology umbrella.

• Undergraduate

Print Options

• Graduate School Academic Catalog
• Programs of Study
• Biological Sciences (DBS)

Marine Biology (Ph.D.)

https://colsa.unh.edu/biological-sciences/program/phd/marine-biology

The Marine Biology (MB) option is intended for students interested in marine, coastal, and estuarine ecosystems, and the organisms that inhabit them, at all levels of inquiry. Some UNH faculty use marine organisms as model systems for molecular phylogeny, cellular metabolism, and neurobiology, while others study the structure and function of marine ecosystems. Some faculty members focus primarily on basic research; others work in more applied areas such as aquaculture and fisheries; many combine the two. Students who have earned advanced degrees at UNH lead agencies involved in managing valuable marine resources, teach marine biology in academic and public settings, own aquaculture companies, or earn a living as researchers. In addition to on­-campus facilities, UNH owns the Coastal Marine Laboratory and the Jackson Estuarine Laboratory , and a range of research vessels. UNH has an excellent SCUBA diving program for students interested in becoming certified to dive as part of their research. The Marine Biology option is also affiliated with UNH’s School of Marine Sciences and Ocean Engineering .

Ph.D. Degree Requirements

Students work with their advisor and their Doctoral Guidance Committee to plan a program of study including the required core courses and competencies, and develop a viable research proposal. The Guidance Committee is normally established by the end of the first semester, and should meet by the end of the second semester. The student presents to the Guidance Committee a preliminary research proposal in which the soundness, originality, and feasibility of the planned research are clearly described. The Guidance Committee is responsible for approving the proposal, and also oversees the qualifying examination through which the student is admitted to doctoral candidacy. The Doctoral Dissertation Committee is established at this point. To earn the Ph.D. degree, students must complete an original dissertation project, present the results at a public seminar, pass an oral dissertation defense consisting of questions from members of the Dissertation Committee, and have the dissertation approved by the Dissertation Committee and accepted by the Graduate School.

Number of Credits Required

There is no specific credit requirement for the Ph.D., though students must take required core courses and meet competency requirements.

Up to 8 credits of graduate credit from another institution may be transferred, provided the credits were not counted toward another degree, and the course grade was a B or higher. Petitions requesting transfer credit must be supported by the advisor and graduate committee, and approved by the UNH Graduate School.

Required Courses, Competencies, and Electives

All students in the Marine Biology Graduate Program are required to take:

1. BIOL 901 Introductory Graduate Seminar : first-semester course focuses on key information and skills for a successful transition into the graduate program, familiarizing students with program requirements and faculty and providing an opportunity to meet others in their cohort.

2. Two courses in contemporary techniques: Students must take two courses in this competency category, with one course needing to be quantitative. Students should consult their advisor or the graduate program coordinator to determine the courses that fulfill this category.

3. One course in writing/communication: This may be fulfilled by previous graduate coursework (as determined by the student’s advisor and committee), or by taking one graduate-level course. Recommendations often include coursework in professional writing and communication: BIOL 902 Writing and Publishing Science is taught fall semester, and open to students at any stage of the program. BIOL 950 Scientific Communication is usually taught in spring.

4. One marine-based course: This may be fulfilled by previous graduate coursework (as determined by the student’s advisor and committee), or by taking one graduate-level course that has a marine focus.

5. Field requirement: This requirement may be fulfilled by either taking a graduate-level course that has a significant field component as part of the course, or by conducting field research in support of the student's thesis research.

6. Ph.D. students will be required to be a Teaching Assistant for one semester, or demonstrate prior teaching experience.

Additional Information/Requirements

All students in the Marine Biology Graduate Program are expected to present their research in public seminars (including the UNH Graduate Research Conference), and acquire teaching and/or mentoring experience.

• Core Knowledge: Demonstrate expert knowledge of the subdiscipline relevant to their research project and general knowledge of the broader discipline of marine biology.
• Critical Thinking: Critique, evaluate, and integrate qualitative and quantitative biological research and methods to develop original hypotheses.
• Research: Synthesize research methods and data analysis techniques to conduct an independent and original research project that contributes new knowledge to address a gap in the field.
• Communication: Ability to effectively communicate scientific information, concepts, theories, and methods to professional colleagues (specialists), invested parties, and the general public.
• Professionalism: Conduct research ethically and responsibly and intellectually engage with the broader scientific community. 

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School of Marine Sciences

Marine biology.

The M.S. and Ph.D. in Marine Biology are designed to provide students with a broad knowledge base in marine biology in areas including, but not restricted to, taxonomy/systematics, comparative morphology, evolution, genetics, physiology, cellular and molecular biology, and ecology. Marine Biology is a dynamic field, and our programs are flexibly designed to accommodate new discoveries and technologies.

Course requirements for all students are SMS 500 (Marine Biology), one semester of statistics at the graduate level, one semester of seminar (SMS 691) and a basic knowledge of descriptive oceanography.  Students interact closely with their committees to select additional coursework that provides both a broad knowledge base in marine biology and specific emphases appropriate for their research (e.g., aquaculture, biological oceanography, biology of fishes, ecology, invertebrate biology, marine algae, molecular biology). For more degree requirements, consult the Handbook for Graduate Programs  and the Marine Biology Milestone Tracking form .

Required Core Courses

To maintain maximum flexibility, the majority of courses comprising a student’s Program of Study will be determined by the student in consultation with his/her major advisor and advisory committee. Requirements include:

• Basic knowledge of descriptive oceanography equivalent to SMS 302.  Coursework taken prior to matriculation needs to be approved by the Graduate Program Coordinator.
• SMS 500 – Marine Biology Credits: 4
• SMS 691 – Marine Science Seminar Credits: 1
• Participation in SMS Graduate Student Symposium during each year of full-time study.
• One semester of graduate level statistics.

Elective Marine Biology Courses

• INT 510 – (BSC, SMS) Marine Invertebrate Zoology Credits: 5
• INT 563 – (BSC, SMS) Marine Benthic Ecology Credits: 3
• SMS 501 – Biological Oceanography Credits: 3
• SMS 514 – Ecology of Marine Sediments Credits: 2-3
• SMS 525 – Marine Biogeochemistry Credits: 3
• SMS 531 – Coral Reefs Credits: 3
• SMS 550 – Fisheries Oceanography Credits: 3
• SMS 562 – Fisheries Population Dynamics Credits: 3
• SMS 598 – Special Topics in Marine Science Credits: 1-3

Program of Study

Students will be expected to develop special expertise in an area of marine biology.  A Program of Study with additional coursework will be established in close consultation with the student’s advisor and committee to build the foundation of the student’s expertise.

Program Coordinator

Damian Brady Assistant Professor 193 Clarks Cove Road Walpole, ME  04573 207.581.5117 [email protected]

College of Science

Marine biology.

The Master of Science in Marine Biology is a professional master's program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in marine research, conservation, oceanography, and policy.

The Master of Science in Marine Biology program delivers a unique combination of inquiry-based study, fieldwork, research, and workplace experience. Course work is geared toward preparing students to conduct research both in the lab and in the field while also examining the wildlife, ecosystems, and ecology of three ocean provinces: Nahant, MA, and the Gulf of Maine; Bocas del Toro (Atlantic) and Coiba (Pacific), Panamá; and Friday Harbor Labs (Puget Sound) in Washington state.

Students follow their course work with a six-month internship and independent research project at a location of their choice. Upon completion of the program, students present their projects in oral and written form. Competitive admissions and small program size lay the groundwork for future collaborations while connecting students to a wide-ranging network of alumni.

Graduates are fully prepared to plan and execute marine research and well equipped to embark on any path they choose, whether it be a top marine biology PhD program or a successful position in a marine-related career. For additional information on the Three Seas Program, please visit the College of Science website .

More Details

Unique features.

• This program meets F-1 international student status requirements.
• Students spend a year studying marine biology in three different marine environments: New England, the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of Panamá, and the Pacific Northwest.
• Students conduct and present an independent research project, with the goal of producing a publishable study.
• Small cohort of 20 students who progress through the program together.

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Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• Application fee
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Personal statement
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Degree earned or in progress at a U.S. institution
• Degree earned or in progress at an institution where English is the only medium of instruction
• Official exam scores from either the TOEFL iBT (institution code is 3682), IELTS, PTE exam, or Duolingo English Test. Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Science admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Fall admissions only. January 1 is the priority admissions deadline.

Applications received after this date will be reviewed on a rolling admissions basis, depending on space availability.

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The Three Seas program component of the MS in Marine Biology degree provides students the opportunity to spend a year studying marine biology in three different marine environments: New England (Nahant, MA), the Caribbean (Bocas del Toro, Panama) and the Pacific Northwest (San Juan Island, Washington). This is a unique opportunity for students to live and work in the environments that they are studying.

Each year a maximum of twenty students study together for an academic year, beginning with the fall semester in Nahant, Massachusetts, at Northeastern University’s Marine Science Center. A variety of pristine intertidal and subtidal communities are well suited to help provide a strong foundation in marine biology and ecology.

After the winter break, a 10-week session is spent in Panama at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Bocas del Toro, located on the Caribbean Sea. Coral reef ecology, ocean and coastal processes, as well as tropical terrestrial ecology are taught using Panama’s diverse tropical ecosystems and unique geographical location as classroom and laboratory on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

The Three Seas program concludes with an eight-week session at the University of Washington’s Friday Harbor Laboratory on San Juan Island, Washington. Rocky intertidal, subtidal kelp forest, and soft-sediment habitats provide the varied seascape that the spring classes explore.

A six-month internship experience provides students with an opportunity to gain workplace experience in marine biology in either an academic setting, or within the private or public sector. This transition from classroom to workplace allows students to put the experience gained in the year of coursework to use while working with academic research scientists, state and federal agencies, or private consulting firms.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Steve Vollmer

Mark R. Patterson

Justin B. Ries

Joseph Ayers

Jonathan Grabowski

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By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Science & Mathematics alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• State Street
• Liberty Mutual Insurance

What They Do

• Engineering
• Business Development
• Information Technology

What They're Skilled At

• Project Management
• Data Analysis

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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Best Marine Biology Colleges

A fantasy career for many younger children as well as the fictional vocation of George Costanza, marine biology can be an engaging and rewarding major for those who elect to follow their dreams into college. Marine biologist colleges will teach you geology, oceanography, chemistry, biology, and a host of scientific methods and techniques employed by those in the field. Career paths include oil spill response specialist, reef restoration, and fishery management; others work for zoos, federal/state/local governments, or museums. This major can also be a launching pad for students who wish to go on to earn graduate degrees that lead to careers in academia, research labs, or as marine veterinarians. Unsurprisingly, the schools on our list of Best Marine Biology Colleges are located on either the East or West Coasts since many courses will involve direct fieldwork. We will also reveal marine biology salary info.

Click the links below for more information about each school on our list of best marine biology colleges. Click here  to read our methodology.

1) University of California, San Diego

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 76
• Program includes regular laboratory work and field trips to intertidal zones, salt marshes, and other marine ecosystems.
• Elective options include the following courses: The Coral Reef Environment, Marine Mammal Biology, Biology of the Cryosphere, Marine Invertebrates, and Biology of Fishes.

2) University of Miami

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 55
• The Marine Biology & Ecology program leads to a Bachelor of Science degree in the field. There are also many dual major options.
• Courses include Chemical Oceanography, Evolution & Biodiversity, Marine Vertebrate Zoology, and Origin and Geology of the Galapagos Islands.

3) University of California, Santa Cruz

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 61
• The marine biology program leads to B.S. degree and requires several more courses than the general biology B.A. major.
• The department is located on the UC Santa Cruz Coastal Science Campus which includes underwater laboratories and live marine life facilities.

4) University of California, Los Angeles

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 20
• All Marine Biology students complete the Marine Biology Quarter (MBQ) where they actually live the life of someone in the profession.
• Course offerings include Atmospheric & Oceanic Sciences, Society and Genetics, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, and Marine Organismic Biology.

5) Boston University

• Faculty and students are engaged in research in areas including biomimicry, functional genomics, ocean exploration, and marine conservation.
• They have a formal partnership with the New England Aquarium , the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary , and the Sea Education Association .

6) Stony Brook University

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 49
• In addition to a B.S. in Marine Sciences, students can pursue degrees in Marine Vertebrate Biology, Coastal Environmental Studies, and Atmospheric and Oceanic Studies.
• 90 faculty members teach within the larger School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS).

7) Northeastern University

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 12
• The B.S. in Marine Biology at Northeastern includes the Three Seas Program which allows undergrads to spend a year studying in three spectacular marine settings: the North Atlantic rocky shores, North Pacific kelp habitats, and tropical coral reefs.
• Required coursework includes Coastal Sustainability, Animal Behavior, Ecosystems Ecology, Genetics and Evolution in Action, and Wetlands.

8) University of Washington

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 11
• Over 45 faculty members teach in the Marine Biology department.
• Research opportunities abound through the larger Undergraduate Research Program as well as through courses like Seminar in Marine Biology and Research in Marine Biology.

9) University of North Carolina at Wilmington

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 84
• The Center for Marine Science facilitates research in the fields of oceanography, coastal and wetland studies, marine biomedical and environmental physiology, and marine biotechnology and aquaculture.
• New lab was constructed a decade ago to complement an already existing wet lab, outdoor tank area, SCUBA facilities, and shellfish research area.

10) University of South Carolina

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 54
• The Bachelor of Science in Marine Sciences offers undergraduates a holistic approach to the student of the ocean.
• The Baruch Marine Field Laboratory plays host to over 100 marine scientists each year and is incorporated into the undergraduate coursework.

11) University of Delaware

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 21
• The Marine Sciences major involves the study of “marine biology, oceanography, geology, and other related sciences, as well as policy and environmental management.”
• Being a coastal state, Delaware students enjoy opportunities to study river, bay, and ocean life/habitats on a regular basis.

12) University of California, Santa Barbara

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: N/A
• This program is jointly administered by two academic departments: Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB) and Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology (EEMB).
• Over 150 Upper-Level Biology courses are available.

13) University of Rhode Island

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 39
• This is a growing program as more than ten new faculty members have been hired in just the last few years.
• Offers a major in Marine Biology as well as a minor and a host of dual major options.

14) University of Connecticut

• Offers a Marine Sciences major, Marine Biology minor, and a 4+1 master’s degree program.
• While students can begin at the Storrs or Avery Point campus, the latter is located on the shores of Long Island Sound and features a fleet of research vessels, laboratories, and oceanographic support facilities.

15) University of Oregon

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 10
• One of the only programs on the Pacific Coast that offers a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology.
• Students start off at the Eugene campus but also spend a minimum of three terms at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology (OIMB) in Charleston.

16) College of Charleston

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 29
• Prepare students for careers in fields such as fisheries biology, oceanography, wildlife biology, aquaculture, environmental conservation, biomedicine, and teaching.
• Grice Marine Laboratory features classrooms, research labs, access to vessels, a wet lab, an aquarium, and an invertebrate museum.

17) Eckerd College

• Number of undergraduate degrees awarded annually: 69
• Campus is situated right near the Gulf of Mexico—an amazing waterfront location at which to student marine biology.
• As a liberal arts college, Eckerd faculty focuses 100% of their attention on undergraduate students and you won’t have to compete with graduate students for research opportunities.

Marine Biology Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median marine biology salary is $65,000 per year. This works out to an hourly wage of $31. The field is only expected to grow by a single percentage point through 2031. However, there are still expected to be 15,000 openings per year in the coming decade.

Final Thoughts: Best Marine Biology Colleges

We hope you have found our list of the Best Marine Biology Colleges to be helpful. Students interested in marine biology may also wish to explore related top colleges lists such as:

• Environmental Science
• Environmental Engineering

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If you’re a high school student interested in STEM, consider applying for a summer program! For marine biology, specifically, summer programs are a solid way to gain academic exposure, work on building a network, and have some research experience under your belt before you apply to university. 

Additionally, if you’re a high school senior about to apply to an undergraduate degree in marine science or biology, participating in a summer program will give you a solid edge over other applicants - admissions officers are looking for applicants that go beyond the classroom to engage in the subject of their choice, and possess advanced skills that can enable them to do better at university. A summer program can help you tick all of these boxes!

1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Application Deadline : Varying deadlines based on cohort. The main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15

Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.

Location : Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!

Eligibility :

You must be currently enrolled in high school

Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. (Note. students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)

No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!

Program Dates : The summer cohort runs from June to August, the Fall cohort from September to December, the Winter cohort from December to February, and the Spring from March to June 

The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students, across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler. 

The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors  to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here !

2. Advanced Marine Science Camp Program by The Acadia Institute of Oceanography

Location: Seal Harbor, Maine

Cost: AIO base tuition is $3,200 for Advanced: $3,300 for Advanced for College Credit

(the additional cost of 4 credits in 2024 is $580 and billed directly from UMaine)

Program Dates: July 7-19 and July 21-August 2, 2024

Application Timeline:  for 2025, Applications start October 15th.

Eligibility:  Ages 15-19, with at least one year of science education experience

Situated near the Acadia National Park, this Marine Science Program is a for any students hoping to work on projects in the realm of marine biology. 

This two-week program allows about 40-50 students to study the different aspects of oceanography alongside trips to the beach, tidal pools, salt marshes, and more to understand the different chemical, physical, and biological aspects . One of the main projects for all students is to design and maintain a saltwater aquarium. Alongside these sessions, you will be allowed to engage with professionals through special lectures and mini-seminars as well as have access to optional laboratory techniques. You will have the chance to interact with one another and form long-lasting connections in their network.

With an additional cost, students can also get college credits for this program through the University of Maine’s regional campus at Machias.

The program is so well respected that the College of the Atlantic, in Bar Harbor, Maine, offers $10,000/year scholarships to any AIO student (up to $40,000 for the 4 years) who is accepted into their program with a recommendation from one of our Directors.

3. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

Location: Based on locality

Cost: no cost, stipend available

Program Dates: June to August

Application Timeline:  January 16th, 2024

Eligibility:  Must be 16 years of age and reside in the United States

The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is an 8-week summer internship for high school students interested in fisheries and marine sciences. This is sponsored by the American Fisheries Society and students are paired up with professionals in their local area through the AFS network. 

While each internship will be unique to the student and their connected professional, Hutton scholars may expect to engage in multiple laboratory and field-based research.  The list of potential activities includes electrofishing, public education, data analysis, laboratory analysis of fish age and growth, and so much more! This opportunity not only allows students to gain practical skills on a project but also allows them to tap into the vast network of the AFS. 

At the end, participants are invited to the Hutton Scholars Summit where they may share their final reports on their respective projects and engage with other Scholars and scientists.

4. University of Maryland Eastern Shore: Geosciences Bridge Program

Location: University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD

Cost: no cost, 500$ stipend per week 

Program Dates: July 1 - August 9

Application Timeline:  The deadline for application is May 31st, 2024

Eligibility:  Open to high school seniors who have been accepted into a US College/University and pursue a bachelor’s degree in related field

The National Science Foundation and NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Centre at UMES fund this competitive, fully-funded internship program for high school seniors. In this program, students engage in a variety of fields related to geoscience including Marine Biology, Marine Chemistry and Physical Oceanography.  Students participate in lectures and hands-on activities under the guidance of field experts and faculty. Students also receive college credits for this program.

Aside from this, students are also required to take two college-level courses (College Algebra or Calculus I and Freshman Seminar Course) that help them prepare for college academics. 

5. Kwiáht Apprenticeships

Location: Kwiáht Center, San Juan Islands, WA

Cost: no cost, stipend may vary 

Program Dates: Dates vary between apprenticeships

Application Timeline: Apprenticeships are offered year-round with varying deadlines

Eligibility:  Current high school students, with preference given to local public and private schools and tribal schools

Kwiáht is a non-profit conservation center and biology laboratory. Here, high school students can apply for apprenticeships to Associates. In the course of these apprenticeships, students will conduct relevant research and work in the center's natural environment and using the center’s tools and facilities. Alongside daily mentoring, there is also the possibility of contributions to a publication which is a huge boon for early career students.

Students have to send proposals for projects that detail the research question and methods to conduct study and analysis. These proposals are judged based on their relevance to ongoing work and upon acceptance, apprentices are assigned to different associates. 

Through this program, students can get exposed to ongoing research projects and gain practical tools and skills that allow their profiles to shine when applying for higher education.

6. Marine Science Investigations at the Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology

Location: Mānoa, Hawai’i

Cost: $1000, students from Hawai’i may be eligible for $500 subsidies

Program Dates: June 3rd-7th 2024

Application Timeline: The deadline for the application is May 6th, 2024

Eligibility:  All high school students

This 5-day program by the University of Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology offers hands-on learning for students interested in marine science research.  Professional scientists at the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) introduce students to concepts and modules like marine bioacoustics, coral feeding, microplastics and data analysis. 

Students gain experience in field studies, lab experiments, hands-on data collection and other projects. They also get the chance to study coral reefs, marine ecosystems, and the diverse marine life found in the Pacific using the institute’s top-notch research facilities.

This program allows students to showcase their passion for marine biology on their profile and form a network of peers and faculty that may help them in their future education and career paths.

7. UCSD Research Scholars Marine Science Track

Location: San Diego, California / Remote programs also available

Cost: $1500-4000, depending on tier of course, scholarships are available

Program Dates: Varies depending on the program

Application Timeline:  Rolling

Eligibility:  Students at least 15 years of age, in classes 10th - 12th, and with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0

The UCSD Research Scholars Marine Science Track is a great opportunity for passionate students with multiple tiers of courses that are available online and offline. 

The tier 1 course, “Introduction to Marine Science” occurs in Fall and takes place online twice a week. T his course gives students a deep dive into the dynamics processes that govern marine environments and discusses a wide range of topics including Chemical Oceanography, Physical Oceanography, Marine Ecology, and Human Impact. Students also gain an understanding of current research in this field alongside diverse career options in marine research, policy development, and related fields 

Tier 2 courses pertain to more advanced topics like rocky intertidal environments (as present in the “Advanced Marine Biodiversity: Life on the Edge” course) and bioluminescence. These are in-person courses that engage students in the class as well as laboratories to equip them with practical knowledge. Students get the opportunity to analyze thermal imaging as well as engage in classical genetics to understand various processes that take place at individual organism and population levels.

This course is a solid opportunity to engage in marine research and get an experience of how undergraduate and graduate education and research take place in this field.

8. Pre-College at Eckerd program: Marine Science

Location: St. Petersburg, Florida, US

Cost: $2000, including participation in all sessions, accommodation, food and transport

Program Dates: June 9th - 14th and 16th - 21st 2024

Application Timeline:  Closed for 2024, application deadline unclear

Eligibility:  Students from 11th and 12th grade in Fall 2024, who must pass the swim test.

Having a renowned marine biology program, Eckerd College’s Pre-College Program in Marine Science is a great opportunity for high school students interested in pursuing Marine Science as a major at Eckard or other universities.

Its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico gives its access to a brilliant nature resource which students tap into during the program. Each student may engage in various activities like netting off shore for invertebrates, catching marine fish and invertebrates, deploying hydrophones to record underwater sound, protograph movements of dolphins or even observing the foraging of shorebirds. 

Students work with the accomplished faculty of Eckerd College and engage in various field and lab-based projects that give them broad exposure to multiple activities one can be part of with a degree in marine science all the while exploring integral concepts of marine biology, geology, chemistry, and more. This experience equips students with a lot of practical experience that allows their profile to stand out when they apply for different university programs.

9. ARCC Summer: Pacific Marine Biology

Location: California Coast

Cost: $3,995

Program Dates: July 19th - August 1st

Eligibility:  Students from 7th to 12th grade in Fall 2024

In this two-week coastal adventure, students work along the coast of California involved in various projects that allow students to learn about the various marine ecologies that are to be explored. From exploring ongoing research projects at the Monterey Bay Aquarium to engaging in coastal conservation activities like invasive plant removal and wildlife monitoring in the Channel Islands National Park, students are exposed to multiple different facets of marine biology from a conservation standpoint. These sessions are led by marine biologists and naturalist experts who help students understand the ecology present around them. 

10. Long Island Aquarium High School Internship

Location: Long Island Aquarium, NY

Cost: This is an unpaid internship 

Program Dates: This internship will be at least 120 working hours long

Application Timeline: Fall Semester – August 15th

Spring Semester – December 15th

Summer Semester – May 15th

Eligibility:  All high school students who can commute to and from the aquarium

The Long Island Aquarium offers internships with the Aquarium’s education department. For students who like to work with written information and aim to become science communicators. This Internship will give them experience in working with the public at LIA’s interactive touch tanks where interns will educate them with information regarding the exhibits. 

Students are paired with mentors who teach the material as well as offer career advice to understand prospective education and career paths.  Interns will be assigned a weekly schedule in order to complete the required hours.

11. Dolphin Research Center Internships

Location: Dolphin Research Center, Grassy Key, FL

Cost: unpaid internships

Program Dates: 16-18 weeks depending on term

Application Timeline: October 1 (winter term) | February 1 (summer term) | June 15 (fall term)

Eligibility:  All high school students from around the world who can read, speak, and understand English and are also physically fit

The Dolphin Research Center has been an active site of marine mammal education and research.  It also runs internships where high school students can be part of the Research Center’s projects. Selected interns work 40 hours a week - 4 days with their assigned department and 1 day providing assistance in other areas - where they can be involved in many facets of the Center like Education, Research, Medical, Animal Care, and Training. 

This experience is a great opportunity to work in a research center and gain experience in not just marine biology but also science communication, outreach and photography. 

Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.

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2024-2025 Catalog

Doctoral degrees.

The University of Idaho awards the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in recognition of high achievement in scholarly and research activity. The degree of Doctor of Education is granted for high scholarly attainment and in recognition of the completion of academic preparation for professional practice. See the "Ph.D. and Ed.D. Procedures" tab for more details. The Doctor of Athletic Training is offered through the College of Education and the Department of Movement Sciences (see the "DAT Procedures" tab for more details).

The major professor and program offering a particular doctoral program indicate the general philosophy of the degree program, the objectives of courses and seminars, the research specialties available, and requirements unique to the department. Admission to the doctoral program is granted only to those who have a recognized potential for completing the degree.

Requirements for Doctoral Degrees

Credit requirements.

For the Ph.D. and Ed.D., a minimum of 78 credits beyond the bachelor's degree is required.; At least 52 credits must be at the 500 level or above and at least 33 of the 78 credits must be in courses other than 600 (Doctoral Research and Dissertation). A maximum of 45 research credits in 600 (Doctoral Research and Dissertation) including 6 credits of 599 (Non-thesis Research) or 500 (Master's Research and Thesis) may be in the 45 research credits used toward the degree. For the D.A.T., a minimum of 66 credits is required and follows a prescribed set of courses set by the program.

Courses numbered below 300 may not be used to fulfill the requirements for a doctoral degree; courses numbered 300-399 may be used only in supporting areas and are not to be used to make up deficiencies. Individual programs may require additional course work. Applicants having a doctoral degree may obtain a second doctoral degree subject to the approval of the Graduate Council. The Graduate Council will establish the requirements for the second degree.

Credit Limitations for Transfer, Correspondence Study, and Non-degree

For the Ph.D. and Ed.D. degrees, a student must complete at least 39 of the 78 required credits at the University of Idaho (U of I) while matriculated in the College of Graduate Studies. Credits can be transferred to U of I with the consent of the student's major professor, the committee (if required by the program), the program's administrator, and the dean of the College of Graduate Studies. Credits can be transferred only if the institution from which the credits are being transferred has a graduate program in the course's discipline. All credits used toward graduate degrees must be from regionally accredited American institutions or from non-US institutions recognized by the appropriate authorities in their respective countries. Transfer credits are subject to all other College of Graduate Studies rules and regulations. Correspondence study courses may be applied to the degree only with the prior written approval of the College of Graduate Studies. Courses used toward an undergraduate degree, professional development courses, and courses on a professional development transcript are not available to be used toward a doctoral degree.

Time Limits

Of the credits submitted to satisfy the requirements for a Ph.D. or Ed.D. degree, a maximum of 30 may be more than eight years old when the degree is conferred, provided the student's committee and program administrator determine that the student has kept current in the subjects concerned. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their preliminary or general examination. These time limitations can be extended only on recommendation of the committee and approval by the Graduate Council.

Awarding Doctoral Degrees to Members of the Faculty

Regulations are outlined in Section 4920 of the Faculty-Staff Handbook.

Particular Requirements for the Ed.D. Degree

A period of professional practice is required for the Doctor of Education degree; the period involved is determined by the student's supervisory committee. While the Ed.D. is a College of Education degree, you should consult with the departments in the College of Education to learn of specific emphasis requirements.

Procedures for Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Education Degrees

Appointment of major professor and committee.

Refer to " Appointment of Major Professor and Committee for All Degree Seeking Graduate Students " in the preceding General Graduate Regulations section. In addition, a doctoral supervisory committee consists of at least four people: the major professor as chair and at least one additional UI faculty member from the program, the balance of the committee may be made up of faculty members from a minor or supporting area, and faculty members from a discipline outside the major. If the committee has a co-chair, the minimum number of committee members is five.

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination is a program option and serves to assess the background of the student in both the major and supporting fields and to provide partially the basis for preparation of the student's study program. A particular program may or may not require a master's degree as a prerequisite for the qualifying evaluation. As soon as the program's qualifications are met, a supervisory committee is appointed.

Preparation of Study Plan

Refer to " Preparation and Submission of Study Plan " in the preceding General Graduate Regulations section.

Preliminary Examination for Ph.D. Degree

The preliminary examination should be scheduled only after the student has completed the majority of the courses on their study plan. The student is required to be registered during the semester the preliminary examination is taken. The student's committee certifies to the College of Graduate Studies the results of the preliminary examination and if passed, the student is advanced to candidacy. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their examination. If the preliminary examination is failed, it may be repeated only once; the repeat examination must be taken within a period of not less than three months or more than one year following the first attempt. If a student fails the preliminary examination a second time, or the program does not allow the student to repeat the examination after the first failure or the student does not retake the examination within one year, the student is automatically moved to unclassified enrollment status and is no longer in the degree program.

General Examination for Ed.D . Degree

When the student approaches the end of their course work, has completed the professional experience requirement, and has outlined the dissertation subject in detail, the supervisory committee approves the holding of the general examination. The student is required to be registered during the semester the general examination is taken. The examination is both written and oral and is intended to assess progress toward degree objectives. The student's committee certifies to the College of Graduate Studies the results of the general examination and if passed, the student is advanced to candidacy. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their examination. If the general examination is failed, it may be repeated only once; the repeat examination must be taken within a period of not less than three months or more than one year following the first attempt. If a student fails the general examination a second time, or the program does not allow the student to repeat the examination after the first failure or the student does not retake the examination within one year, the student is automatically moved to unclassified status and is no longer in the degree program.

See the General Graduate Regulations section regarding application for advanced degree, registration requirements, final defense and dissertation requirements.

Procedures for Doctor of Athletic Training

The culminating clinical project.

Students enrolled in the Doctor of Athletic Training (D.A.T.) will engage in research projects during the curricular phase of the program. These project(s) will lead to at least two publication ready manuscripts, and all students must meet professional authorship requirements (regardless of order). See the  Department of Movement Sciences and Doctor of Athletic Training webpages for more information.

The Team (Committee)

All D.A.T. project team committees will have at least four committee members: two members of the athletic training faculty (all with graduate faculty status), the student's attending clinician (who is the student's on-site mentor during the student's residency), and an expert in the student's chosen area of clinical research. The athletic training faculty members will always chair the CCP, provide research guidance, and serve as the experts in the development of advanced practice in Athletic Training. A situation may arise in which one or both of the members of the committee that are outside of the AT program faculty may have a degree less than that of which the student is seeking; however, the intent of the third and fourth D.A.T. committee membership is to provide outside validation of the student's progress toward advanced practice and clinical utility of action research studies.

Culminating Clinical Project Hours

These dissertation hours may be used in instances when the CCP has not been successfully completed and the curricular phase of program has been completed.

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Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing Online

This accelerated RN to MSN online program offers two fast-track options for nurses who want to move straight into a master's degree program.

Home > Online Programs > Registered Nurse to Master of Science in Nursing

Program Overview

See a snapshot of the UTA RN to MSN online program

The RN to MSN program tracks are designed for licensed registered nurses who wish to earn a BSN and continue their education immediately to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) in Administration, Education or Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). In addition to a flexible online learning environment and expert instructors, students benefit from a curriculum that combines the latest nursing theory with hands-on practicum experience. Upon graduation, students are qualified for national FNP certification or prepared to launch a successful career as a nurse educator or nurse administrator.

The University of Texas at Arlington RN to MSN online program offers an expedited timetable at an excellent value. With two paths to choose from, the MSN Nurse Educator or the MSN Administration, this program equips you to be a leader in education or hospital nursing administration. This accelerated nursing program allows you to complete your MSN in less time—and save more money—than if you enrolled in the RN to BSN and MSN programs separately.

This CCNE-accredited nursing program advances your leadership skills in the growing field of nursing and prepares you for exciting roles, such as:

• Nurse Researcher
• Nurse Educator
• Nurse Administrator

State Authorization

Residents of certain states may not be eligible to enroll in all UTA accelerated online programs. See program map for details. Currently enrolled students who reside in ineligible states will need approval to continue uninterrupted in their programs in accordance with applicable state laws. Approval is not guaranteed.

Also available:

UTA offers a wide variety of nursing programs online. Check out all of our online nursing programs.

Accreditation

The baccalaureate, master's and Doctor of Nursing Practice degree programs and the post-graduate APRN certificate program in the College of Nursing and Health Innovation at The University of Texas at Arlington are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education .

Need more information?

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"The UT Arlington program builds off your work experience already and that was the biggest factor of why I chose it."

Roberta Deutsch, Graduate of UTA's Online RN to MSN Program

Pay for your online program by the course

The University of Texas at Arlington is committed to providing students with a quality, affordable education. That's why this online program offers pay-by-the course options.

Tuition Guarantee

Did you know if you enroll now and complete your program without interruption, you can lock in your tuition rate? Read more

Tuition breakdown:

“...What I really liked about the program was the fact that I could be online, do the classes on my schedule...”

Roberta Deutsch

RN to MSN online graduate

Know our application deadlines and class schedules

Our RN to MSN online program offers multiple start dates to accommodate your professional and personal schedule.

View full calendar  + 

View General Education Courses calendar  + 

Now enrolling:

Ready to take the next steps toward earning your degree, read the details of our admission criteria for our rn to msn online program.

The College of Nursing and Health Innovation admission process is the first step toward changing your life and enriching the lives of others. Familiarize yourself with these admission requirements, along with information on required documentation.

Admission Requirements

• Online application
• Official transcripts
• Active RN license
• Work experience*

Online Admission Requirements

• Completed online application and application fee
• If the license is unable to be verified, the student must send in a copy via email of the license for verification. Acceptance will be on hold until the license is verified. Use the RN License Upload Form to submit license.
• Students that do not have a license but graduated within 1 year of completion of the ADN program will have the license checklist waived and accepted to the AO RN to BSN program. However, the license will be verified within NURS 3345. If the license is unable to be verified, students will be unable to progress.
• 3.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) of all courses completed
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam is satisfied by resident status, Associate's Degree, or completion of Composition I and II with a grade of C or better plus 24 additional transferrable hours at a college or university located in the U.S. Otherwise, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam is required if the applicant's native or first language is not English. Additional information is available here .
• Completed Texas Success Initiative (TSI). This will NOT prevent admission, but the requirement must be satisfied during the first semester of enrollment.

*Applicants who meet all the admission requirements listed above but have fewer than 2 years of clinical experience may be granted provisional admission.

At this time, the program is only open to United States Citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders), and individuals who hold an H1-B Visa or other valid U.S. work visa.

Official transcripts from all colleges/universities you have attended should be submitted, along with required documents, from the granting institution(s) to:

Electronic Submission (faster processing)

[email protected]

U.S. Postal Service

Have a question? Call us at 866-489-2810.

Learn more about our admission requirements, review the nursing handbook and policies, and discover tips for success on the UTA College of Nursing and Health Innovation (CONHI) page .

Gain the knowledge you need in these online nursing courses

This program can be completed at an accelerated pace depending on which RN to MSN track is selected as well as meeting the requirements for the BSN.

Students begin the program as an undergraduate in the RN-BSN program and must meet all undergraduate requirements prior to transitioning into the MSN program of choice. Prior to completing the BSN requirement, two graduate-level courses must be completed. Those courses will be two of the last three courses needed to complete the undergraduate requirements. The courses will be applied to meet both BSN electives and MSN core requirements.

Once a student officially graduates with their BSN, the student must continue to the MSN program within one semester, excluding summer, to successfully transition. The estimated date of completion is dependent upon the successful completion of the undergraduate program and transition period, as well as the length of the program outline of the specific MSN program chosen.

Students in UTA's accelerated online program who have Technical Writing or an equivalent will not be required to enroll in Technical Writing (ENGL 2338). The equivalent courses for Technical Writing are any sophomore level (2000 level course) Literature, Philosophy, or Speech course. View course equivalency charts.

One of the literature courses (ENGL 2329, ENGL 2319, or ENGL 2309) must be completed to graduate from the AO RN-MSN program. If you have taken one of these courses in the past, they can be transferred into the AO RN-MSN program.

Beginning in Fall 2024, ENGL 2338 Technical Writing will no longer be required. Instead, the requirement will be replaced with an upper-division elective.

The current curriculum requires two upper-division electives: one upper-division nursing elective and one upper-division general elective (or a second upper-division nursing elective). With the curriculum change in Fall 2024, there will be three upper-division elective requirements. CONHI recommends that the third elective be NURS 3322 Human Factors in Healthcare; however, students may take a second upper-division nursing elective or a second upper-division general elective. 

If students were admitted before Fall 2024 and must satisfy the Technical Writing requirement, CONHI will still offer ENGL 2338 at UTA through Summer 2025.

Additional Information

Prior to completing the BSN requirement, two graduate-level courses must be completed. Those courses will be two of the last three courses needed to complete the undergraduate requirements. The courses will be applied to meet both BSN electives and MSN core requirements.

UTA’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation has designed its online RN to MSN program to include all the courses you need to graduate with your MSN, including general courses, in a flexible format that enables you to continue working as you pursue your MSN.

You can apply by clicking the Apply Now button. This unique online delivery format is cost-effective and an efficient way to earn an MSN degree.

When you are accepted to any of our online nursing programs, we'll give you access to your nursing degree plan, which indicates which courses you satisfied and which courses you still need to complete, via the MyMav Self Service Student Center.

View upcoming start dates and courses .

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