Students pursuing a marine science degree typically demonstrate a strong interest in some aspect of the marine environment and in the sciences in general. High school preparation should include a solid background in mathematics and introductory biology and/or chemistry.
Admission into the Major
Students are expected to formally declare both majors no later than the fourth semester of full-time enrollment (or at 61 semester hours for transfer students). Students can declare a major by completing the Change of Major/Minor Application online under the Student tab of myBama.
Special Opportunities
During the summer semester, a large suite of marine science courses is offered at the Dauphin Island campus of the Alabama Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium.
Students earning the bachelor of science (BS) degree in marine science/geology must complete all university, college and departmental degree requirements. These include the general education requirements, the following double major requirements and other sufficient credits to total 128 applicable semester hours.
Types of Jobs Accepted
Recent graduates have worked in entry-level positions in government agencies, ecotourism (e.g., SCUBA divemasters, whale or dolphin watching boats), and K-12 education. A large number of graduates enter professional school (e.g., medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy) or graduate school (master’s degree, Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D.]).
Jobs of Experienced Alumni
Marine biologist, marine geologist, conservation specialist, laboratory technician, teacher, professor, aquaculture industry specialist, oceanographer, environmental consultant, marine animal veterinarian
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