Marine and Aquatic Biology is the study of marine and freshwater organisms, their behaviors, and their interactions with the environment. Marine and Aquatic Biology is a subdiscipline of both oceanography and limnology. To best understand aquatic organisms, students are encouraged to acquire an appreciation for the allied disciplines of chemical, physical, and geological oceanography and limnology.
The oceans are the final frontier of discovery on Earth. They possess vast untapped resources, provide a global transportation network for commerce, and play a pivotal role in moderating Earth’s climate. Likewise, our freshwater resources support both commercial and recreational activities. They serve as readily accessible sources of potable water and influence climate on regional scales. Human activities related to global population growth represent a serious challenge to preserving these important resources. We must build upon our existing knowledge of the ocean and our lakes and their potential to help meet the needs of this and future generations.
Career opportunities in the marine and aquatic sciences are exciting and diverse. Graduates may find work with one of the branches of government, in academia with university research labs, with the private sector (consulting, natural resource exploration, aquaculture, recreation), or with a non-governmental organization.
The Marine and Aquatic Biology specialization requires completion of a suite of core courses in basic biology, genetics, ecology, and aquatic biology. Elective courses in diverse areas of ecology (Group A) provide more specialized training, while advanced courses in organismal biology (Group B) create depth of knowledge in biodiversity. Courses in areas of cell, molecular, and regulatory biology (Group C) offer breadth of knowledge and training in emerging areas that are advancing our knowledge of the complex interactions amongst organisms in aquatic environments. Finally, applied technical training through experiential learning and focused coursework (Group D) in statistics, GIS, remote sensing independent research, service learning, or internships is also integrated into the program.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this specialization, undergraduates will:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the basic principles of marine biology and gain an appreciation of its role as a subdiscipline of oceanography.
- Gain a better understanding of how the marine environment is impacted by human activities.
- Develop critical thinking skills as well as an understanding of the nature of science, demonstrate the ability to evaluate biological research, and demonstrate technical skills relevant to marine biology.
- Demonstrate the ability to articulate their understanding of marine environments in both oral and written formats to professional and non-science audiences.
- Seek employment consistent with their interest in marine science, pursue professional school or graduate education, or be satisfied that the degree met other personal objectives.
minor required
