Marine Biology Major
Marine Biology is the study of organisms that live in the ocean and other marine environments. It is a major within Agriculture & Environment.
Marine biology is the study of living things in oceans, seas, and other saltwater environments. Students in this major learn how marine organisms—from tiny plankton to large whales—survive, interact with each other, and adapt to their habitats. The field draws on chemistry, physics, and ecology to understand ocean processes like currents and nutrient cycles, as well as how pollution and climate change affect marine life. Students develop practical skills including identifying species, collecting and analyzing data, using laboratory equipment, and sometimes conducting fieldwork in coastal or ocean settings.
People drawn to marine biology typically have curiosity about ocean life and environmental systems. They often enjoy both hands-on observation and scientific analysis. The major usually begins with broad foundational courses in biology, chemistry, and general marine science, which give students a solid grounding in how marine ecosystems work. As students progress, coursework becomes more specialized, covering topics like marine ecology, organism physiology, or oceanography. This structure allows students to build understanding from basic principles before moving toward more focused areas of study.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Marine Biology program commonly includes topics such as:
- Marine ecology
- Oceanography
- Invertebrate biology
- Marine vertebrates
- Conservation
- Field and lab methods
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Marine Biology is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Marine Biology background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Marine biologist
- Field researcher
- Aquarium specialist
- Conservation technician
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Marine Biology major?
Marine Biology is the study of organisms that live in the ocean and other marine environments. It is part of agriculture & environment, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Marine Biology majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as marine ecology, oceanography, invertebrate biology, marine vertebrates, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Marine Biology major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as marine biologist, field researcher, aquarium specialist. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Marine Biology offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.