Ocean Futures (Coastal and Marine Science) - BS

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science program in Ocean Sciences focuses on the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of coastal and marine systems, preparing students for careers in ocean stewardship, research, and conservation. It emphasizes holistic approaches, transdisciplinary study, and use-inspired research to address the challenges facing the ocean. Graduates are equipped with the expertise to become leaders in managing and protecting coastal and marine resources for a sustainable future.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• The program aims to build the next generation of ocean stewards, community leaders, innovators, and researchers.
• It seeks to cultivate capacity for transformational changes in societal perspectives and practices related to the oceans.
• The program emphasizes holistic approaches to supporting healthy ocean and coastal ecosystems in the face of a changing future.

Description:

• This Bachelor of Science program focuses on physical, chemical, and biological aspects of coastal and marine systems.
• It delves into ecosystem functioning, biogeochemistry, and the interaction of the ocean with the climate system.
• Students gain knowledge of integrated ocean science alongside cognitive skills in critical and futures thinking, information and digital literacy, and problem-solving.
• Research opportunities are available in areas like coral reefs, biogeochemical cycling, ocean dynamics, and land-sea interactions.
• The program prepares graduates for further studies in various fields, including biological, chemical, and physical oceanography; coastal ecosystem science; and coral reef science.
• It recognizes the interconnectedness of human and ocean health, stressing the importance of healthy oceans for a thriving planet.
• The program highlights the role of transdisciplinary study and use-inspired research in addressing the growing challenges facing the ocean.
• It emphasizes culturally appropriate solutions for local to global stewardship of future oceans.

Careers:

Career Paths:

• Conservation manager
• Environmental consultant
• Environmental scientist
• Fisheries manager
• Marine biologist
• Marine educator
• Marine research assistant
• Marine research technician
• Marine scientist
• Natural resource manager

Opportunities:

• Academia
• County, state, and federal agencies
• Businesses
• Non-governmental and community organizations

Outcomes:

• Graduates are equipped with the expertise to become the next generation of leaders in stewarding coastal and marine resources across businesses and industries.
• It is STEM-OPT eligible for international students on F-1 visas, allowing them to gain additional experience in the U.S.
• The program emphasizes the importance of global experience, offering opportunities to study abroad and participate in global research and internships.