Undergraduates in marine biology will develop an understanding of the biology of marine organisms and the biological and physical processes that affect these organisms, their populations, and their coastal and oceanic ecosystems. The major requires a foundation in the natural sciences, a rigorous core of marine biology courses, and a unifying laboratory/field course that engages students more directly in the discovery process and in analyzing and interpreting data.
Majors select electives from a growing set of upper division Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) courses in marine biology and related disciplines. The marine biology curriculum takes advantage of the UC San Diego's unique physical location along the Pacific Ocean. Laboratory work and field trips to intertidal zones, salt marshes, and other marine ecosystems are important components of the instructional program.
Ocean sciences are relevant to many contemporary environmental issues and problems and central to understanding earth-system evolution, dynamics, climate and sustainability. A major in marine biology is an appropriate start for students who are seeking a career or graduate studies in marine biology and related biological disciplines, a career in fields such as marine conservation, or simply interested in the major to broaden their base of knowledge and experience in the biological sciences.
Program advisors and faculty can provide additional information on career and graduate school opportunities. It is strongly recommended that all Marine Biology majors meet regularly with academic advising staff in the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Undergraduate Education Office in Galbraith Hall and with the marine biology faculty advisor to discuss and update curriculum choices.
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