School of Science
Marine and Environmental Science
Exploring Water, Earth, and Life to Protect Our Changing Planet
This program integrates core concepts from biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics to give students a deep, interdisciplinary understanding of marine and environmental systems. With close access to the Hampton River and Chesapeake Bay, students engage in immersive learning and research that prepares them to address today’s most pressing ecological challenges.
Degree Programs
Select a degree program to take a look at the curriculum, course requirements, and application process.
News Spotlight
- Marine and Environmental Science News
As more scholars of color enter and reshape the environmental sciences, Historically Black Colleges and Universities continue to serve as vital incubators of talent and leadership. At Hampton University, Marine...
Driving Discovery Across Ocean, Climate, and Ecosystem Frontiers
Research in marine and environmental sciences is propelled by immersive, hands‑on exploration that uncovers the hidden dynamics shaping ocean, estuarine, and freshwater ecosystems.
Make Waves With Your Future
At Hampton University, the world becomes your living laboratory. From coastal research along the Chesapeake Bay to hands‑on environmental fieldwork, our Marine and Environmental Science department empowers you to dive deep, ask bold questions, and shape solutions for tomorrow’s world. If you’re ready to explore, discover, and lead—your journey starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What jobs are available in the field of Marine Science?
For assistance with finding and applying for careers, you may visit Hampton University’s Career Center located in the Wigwam building located on Hampton’s campus, or visit www.marinecareers.net.
Contact the Marine & Environmental Sciences department for answers to additional questions.
Contact the Marine & Environmental Sciences department for answers to additional questions.
I am a high school student. How should I prepare for studying marine science in college?
The subject area courses most important in this curriculum are Biology, Chemistry, Math and English. It is also important to have computer skills. We encourage you to obtain first hand experience in marine biology and research by doing activities such as: science fair projects, visiting the ocean, enrolling in summer marine studies camps, volunteering at an aquarium, or even learning marine skills such as small boat handling or scuba diving.
How much math do I need?
Math is very important. It is the “language of science”. This curriculum requires two semesters of Pre- calculus and one semester of calculus. To enroll in the calculus course, you must have completed geometry, trigonometry and algebra. Your knowledge in these areas will be tested through a placement examination administered by the Department of Mathematics. Some ‘remedial’ math classes are offered here at HU, others are available at the community colleges.
Do I need chemistry?
Yes, much of the cutting edge research in biology now is based on processes you need to understand at the cellular and molecular levels. The BS Marine Science curriculum requires that you complete several Biology courses such as organic chemistry, Ecology, Botany as well as General Chemistry and Qualitative Analysis. The Department of Chemistry administers a placement examination prior to enrollment to evaluate the adequacy of your pre-HU chemistry studies.
I am a second year college student changing majors. I would like to be in marine science, but I have no background in math or science. What do you recommend I do?
First, take a look at the first two years of the curriculum for this degree. You will need to catch up, either at the college where you are currently enrolled or by transferring to a Hampton University campus. The latter option would insure the transferability of your coursework and put you in position to learn more about the ocean through field trips and activities associated with your introductory courses. You may even be able to secure marine-related student employment.
I am transferring to HU from another college. How much of my previous coursework, particularly in math and science can satisfy HU graduation requirements for the BS in Marine Science?
The university will decide this after you are admitted. For more information, visit the admissions site Hampton University official policy on transfers. It could help to bring along your college’s catalog of course descriptions and the syllabi from key courses, in case you need to appeal a decision.
Our Team Members
Dr. Deidre M. Gibson
Chairperson, Professor
Areas of Expertise: Biological Oceanography
Dr. Deidre Gibson is the Chair of the Department of Marine and Environmental Science at Hampton University. She earned her B.S. in Oceanography from the University of Washington, Ph.D. in Marine Science from the University of Georgia/Skidaway Institute of Oceanography. She is a broadly trained biological oceanographer with research interests centered on the trophic ecology, reproductive biology, and population dynamics of zooplankton, but more specifically, gelatinous zooplankton, and currently oyster restoration. While at Hampton University, she has served as PI on several NSF and NOAA grants that continue to train the next generation of African American marine scientists
Dr. Ashlyn Ford
Post-doctoral Fellow
Areas of Expertise: Marine Science and Disease Ecology
Dr. Carolina Bonin Lewallen
Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Population Genetics, Marine Mammal Ecology
Dr. Jeanette Davis
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: eDNA, bacterial symbiosis, climate justice, bioremediation
Dr. Joseph Reustle
Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Marine ecology, Community ecology, Species interactions
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