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Marine Sciences
The Bachelor of Science in Marine Sciences degree program prepares students for careers addressing marine resource and coastal environmental issues through research, education and outreach.
The Bachelor of Science in Marine Sciences degree program provides coursework and a curriculum designed to meet the needs of individuals who desire an undergraduate degree that will prepare them for a career addressing marine resource and coastal environmental issues through research, education and outreach.
The program takes advantage of SSU’s location on a salt marsh by incorporating field and laboratory opportunities into courses. SSU is the only instructional unit in the University System of Georgia with direct ocean access and marine laboratory facilities.
What Will You Learn
The following Learning Outcomes are what we expect a student to know and to be able to do as a result of graduating with a major in marine sciences from SSU.
- Ocean Literacy: Demonstrate basic knowledge and principles of chemical, physical, geological, and biological oceanography. An ocean-literate person understands the essential principles and fundamental concepts of oceanography
- Quantitative, Analytical, and Technical Skills: Gain marketable quantitative, analytical, and technical skills by applying a variety of analytical tools
- Communication Skills: Effectively communicate using research report and oral presentation formats
- Integrative Learning: Apply the scientific method to demonstrate the ability to identify marine science questions and through critical thinking, research, and analysis, answer scientific questions and solve marine science problems
These objectives are met through rigorous course work including laboratories and boat-based instruction; academic advisement and mentoring; and opportunities to engage in original research.
Marine Sciences Learning Outcomes
The following Learning Outcomes are what we expect a student to know and to be able to do as a result of graduating with a major in marine sciences from SSU.
Ocean Literacy: Demonstrate basic knowledge and principles of chemical, physical, geological, and biological oceanography. An ocean-literate person understands the essential principles and fundamental concepts of oceanography
Quantitative, Analytical, and Technical Skills: Gain marketable quantitative, analytical, and technical skills by applying a variety of analytical tools
Communication Skills: Effectively communicate using research report and oral presentation formats
Integrative Learning: Apply the scientific method to demonstrate the ability to identify marine science questions and through critical thinking, research, and analysis, answer scientific questions and solve marine science problems
These objectives are met through rigorous course work including laboratories and boat-based instruction; academic advisement and mentoring; and opportunities to engage in original research.
Facilities include multiple research laboratories, 2 wet-laboratories, 2 docks, and multiple boats (up to a 36-foot twin diesel). Both marine science buildings are adjacent to estuarine salt marsh and a tidal creek, providing exceptional opportunity for hands-on marine science instruction.
A grade of “C” or better is required in all science and math courses required for the degree.
Marine Sciences, BS
Marine Science Minor
71%+
Careers in Marine Sciences
Graduates working in MS Fields
300+
Marine Sciences Graduates
Since Creation in 1979
Your Future After A Marine Sciences Degree
The highly interdisciplinary training provided by the Marine Sciences B.S. degree prepares students to serve in a wide variety of careers and to pursue advanced degrees. Unlike larger schools, every one of our students is required to complete independent research as part of their curriculum. This and an abundance of funded research opportunities make SSU students well prepared for graduate and professional school opportunities. In addition, the Marine Science Tools courses that are a required part of the curriculum prepare our graduates for technical careers. Many graduates find employment with municipal, state, and federal entities. As part of the NOAA Living Marine Resources Cooperative Science Center, participants receive career preparation training. The abundant extracurricular outreach opportunities in the department also provide preparation for careers in informal education, such as at public aquariums and museums.
Externally Supported Research & Training Programs Include:
NOAA LMRCSC
NSF Bridge to Research
Office of Naval Research (ONR)
SECOORA
Thoreau Foundation
As well as many other multidisciplinary training opportunities on and off campus.
Future Careers
Marine Biologist
Oceanographer
Marine Environmental Scientist
Fisheries Scientist
Marine Policy Analyst
Aquaculture Specialist
Marine Conservationist
Coastal Resource Manager
Marine Robotics Technician
Underwater Archaeologist
Oceanographer
Marine Environmental Scientist
Fisheries Scientist
Marine Policy Analyst
Aquaculture Specialist
Marine Conservationist
Coastal Resource Manager
Marine Robotics Technician
Underwater Archaeologist
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Marine Science and Marine Biology?
Marine Science includes study of the physical, chemical, and geologic aspects of the marine environment, in addition to biology. Students are broadly trained in the sciences within SSU’s Marine Sciences program and also have the flexibility in their elective course options to shape their degree to best prepare them for their desired specialty.
What is the difference between Oceanography and Marine Science?
Oceanography is slightly more oriented toward the open ocean, with less emphasis on coastal and estuarine environments. In addition, oceanography is more focused on larger scale processes and does not necessarily include the study of marine biology at the organismal level.
Do I need to apply for admission to the Marine Sciences B.S. degree program?
No, if you are admitted to the Savannah State University, you just need to declare your major as Marine Sciences.