Marine & Environmental Sciences, MS
The Master of Science in Marine and Environmental Sciences is a research‑intensive graduate program designed to prepare students for advanced scientific careers and doctoral study in marine biology, environmental science, and related disciplines. The program offers an immersive, two-year research experience that emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and problem‑solving through close mentorship with faculty engaged in externally funded research. Students develop deep expertise in marine and environmental systems while contributing original research that addresses real‑world ecological and environmental challenges.
What can you do with this degree?
- Prepare for doctoral study in marine science, environmental science, oceanography, or related STEM disciplines
- Pursue research and professional roles in government agencies, NGOs, or academic and research institutions focused on marine and environmental systems
- Work in environmental consulting, fisheries science, coastal resource management, or conservation organizations
- Apply advanced analytical, field, and research skills in science‑based industry positions addressing environmental monitoring, sustainability, and ecosystem management
Requirements
To be admitted into the MES, MS program, prospective students will be expected to have successfully completed >1 year of marine and/or environmental science courses, one semester of introductory statistics, and one year of: biology, general and organic chemistry, physics, and calculus. Students will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis at the Program Coordinator’s discretion.
Along with the application, students must submit:
- Personal statement mentioning the MES faculty mentor.
- Undergraduate transcripts (all institutions attended)
- Resume / CV
- Three recommendation letters (at least two from STEM professors / STEM mentors)
Program coordinator: Dr. Deidre Gibson
Course Curriculum
Year 1 – Fall Semester
| Course | Credits |
| MES 600 Thesis Research and Proposal (and/or approved 3 credit course by Dept. Chair) | 3-6 |
| MES 602 Marine Ecology | 3 |
| Total | 9 |
Year 1 – Spring Semester
| Course | Credits |
| MES 535 Ocean and Coastal Policy (and/or approved 3 credit course by Dept. Chair) | 3 |
| MES 630 Fish and Fisheries | 3 |
| MES 620 Data Analysis and Vis. | 3 |
| Total | 9 |
Year 1 – Summer Semester
| Course | Credits |
| 616/617 (NERTO or research w/Advisor) | 1 |
| Total | 1 |
Year 2 – Fall Semester
| Course | Credits |
| MES 605 Thesis Research and Data Collection & Analysis (and/or approved 3 cr elective by Dept. Chair) | 3-6 |
| MES 615 Teaching Assistantship | 3 |
| Total | 9 |
Year 2 – Spring Semester
| Course | Credits |
| MES 610 Thesis Research and Oral Defense (and/or approved 3 cr elective by Dept. Chair) | 1-9 |
| Total | 9 |
How to Apply
Prospective students should contact a potential mentor prior to applying. Students are encouraged to view our list of faculty to identify faculty members with research profiles of interest. When contacting our faculty please be ready to share your resume/CV, undergraduate transcripts, and a cover letter.