Marine Sciences.

Degree Overview

Marine Sciences (CIP 30.3201) is an interdisciplinary field focused on understanding the oceans as complex, living, and interconnected systems. It examines the physical, chemical, biological, and geological processes that govern marine environments—from microscopic plankton to global ocean circulation. This degree is designed for students who are fascinated by the sea and want to study how oceans influence climate, ecosystems, resources, and life on Earth.

For a degree search site, Marine Sciences appeals to students who love science, exploration, and the natural world, and who want a career connected to environmental stewardship, research, and sustainability. Oceans cover more than 70% of the planet and regulate climate, support biodiversity, and drive global food systems. Marine scientists play a critical role in protecting these systems through evidence-based research, monitoring, and policy support.

What Is a Marine Sciences Degree?

A Marine Sciences degree is an interdisciplinary science program that integrates biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and environmental science with a specific focus on marine and coastal systems. Rather than studying science in isolation, students learn how ocean processes interact—how currents affect ecosystems, how chemistry shapes life, and how geological forces form the seafloor.

Universities offer Marine Sciences programs to:

• Train scientists to study and protect marine and coastal ecosystems
• Prepare students for careers in environmental research and monitoring
• Support pathways to graduate school in marine biology, oceanography, or environmental science
• Develop expertise relevant to climate science, fisheries, and ocean policy

Programs often include fieldwork, laboratory research, and hands-on data collection in marine or coastal environments.

What Will You Learn?

Students learn how oceans function as dynamic systems and how human activity influences marine environments. You’ll study marine life, ocean circulation, chemical cycles, and the interactions between the ocean and atmosphere, gaining a holistic understanding of Earth’s largest ecosystem.

Core Skills You’ll Build

Graduates typically develop skills such as:

• Marine field research—collecting samples and data in coastal or offshore environments
• Laboratory analysis—studying water chemistry, organisms, and sediments
• Data analysis and statistics—interpreting oceanographic and ecological data
• Scientific observation—monitoring changes in marine systems
• Geospatial and mapping skills—using GIS and ocean data tools
• Research design—planning experiments and field studies
• Environmental assessment—evaluating ecosystem health and impacts
• Scientific communication—writing reports and presenting findings clearly

Topics You May Explore

Coursework varies by institution, but commonly includes:

• Marine Biology: organisms, ecosystems, and biodiversity
• Physical Oceanography: currents, waves, tides, and ocean circulation
• Chemical Oceanography: seawater chemistry and nutrient cycles
• Geological Oceanography: seafloor formation and marine geology
• Marine Ecology: interactions among marine species and environments
• Climate and Ocean Systems: ocean–atmosphere interactions and climate change
• Fisheries and Resource Management: sustainable use of marine resources
• Coastal Processes: erosion, wetlands, and shoreline dynamics
• Marine Conservation: protection and restoration of ocean ecosystems

What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?

A Marine Sciences degree prepares students for entry-level scientific and environmental roles, as well as advanced study. Many careers require graduate education or specialized training.

Common career paths include:

• Marine Scientist or Research Assistant: supporting oceanographic research
• Environmental Scientist: monitoring marine and coastal environments
• Marine Biology Technician: assisting with biological surveys and lab work
• Fisheries or Resource Management Assistant: supporting sustainable management
• Ocean Data Analyst: working with marine datasets and models
• Marine Policy or Conservation Assistant: supporting environmental initiatives
• Graduate or Professional School Path: preparing for advanced marine science careers

Where Can You Work?

Graduates work in environments connected to ocean research and management:

• Universities and marine research institutions
• Government agencies (environmental, fisheries, ocean services)
• Environmental consulting firms
• Nonprofit conservation organizations
• Aquariums and marine laboratories
• Coastal management and planning agencies
• Marine and environmental policy organizations

How Much Can You Earn?

Earnings vary based on role, location, and education level.

Typical ranges include:

• Entry-level marine or environmental roles: often $40,000–$55,000
• Research or environmental scientists: commonly $55,000–$85,000
• Senior scientists or specialists: can earn $90,000+ with experience

Graduate education significantly improves earning potential.

Is This Degree Hard?

Marine Sciences is considered moderately to highly challenging. It requires strong foundations in biology, chemistry, physics, and math, as well as comfort with lab and field work. Field research can be physically demanding and time-intensive.

Students who enjoy hands-on science and environmental discovery often find the rigor rewarding.

Who Should Consider This Degree?

This degree may be a strong fit if you:

• Are passionate about oceans and marine life
• Enjoy science, fieldwork, and environmental problem-solving
• Want a career connected to conservation or research
• Are interested in climate change and sustainability
• Plan to pursue graduate study in marine or environmental sciences

How to Prepare in High School

To prepare for a marine sciences program:

• Take biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science courses
• Build strong math and statistics skills
• Participate in science labs or environmental programs
• Explore marine topics through reading or documentaries
• Volunteer with aquariums, conservation groups, or coastal programs if possible

Marine Sciences (CIP 30.3201) is a vital, future-oriented degree for students who want to understand and protect the oceans. It provides the scientific foundation and practical skills needed to study Earth’s most important ecosystem and address the environmental challenges shaping our planet’s future.