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undergraduate

Marine biology and oceanography


What is a marine biology and oceanography major?

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

How much do marine biology and oceanography majors make?

This data isn't currently reported, but we're working on it!

How popular is marine biology and oceanography as a major?

Each year, around 1,550 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 35 students obtain an associate degree in marine biology and oceanography. In 2021, 1,635 students received a bachelor's degree and 39 students received an associate degree. This is 2% fewer marine biology and oceanography majors than there were in 2020. Marine biology and oceanography is a relatively popular major compared to other biology majors.

Advice from marine biology and oceanography majors

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