College of Arts and Sciences
Marine Biology BS
Explore the ocean, conserve species, and understand the complexity of marine organisms. Work in marine environments collecting data and researching marine life.
Program details
- Degree
- Bachelor of Science
- Modality
- On-campus
- Duration
- 4 years
- Total Credits
- 120
- Designated
- STEM, STEM-OPT
- Average annual income for wildlife biologists and zoologists:
- $76,780 Average annual income for wildlife biologists and zoologists. View career outcomes.
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Why study marine biology at UMass Dartmouth?
Explore, understand, and protect the ocean by earning a biology degree with a concentration in marine biology! Gain a foundation in fundamental biological principles while specializing in marine life.
During our program, you will study fishes, invertebrates, marine mammals, marine microbiology, marine science, and oceanography. Students learn how marine organisms interact with each other and their environment, and gain hands-on experience in the lab and the field.
UMass Dartmouth is located on Massachusetts' SouthCoast, and provides many opportunities to be on the water. The nearby city of New Bedford is one of the nation's top fishing ports and one of the leading hubs for researching and working in the Blue Economy. UMass Dartmouth students live and study in a coastal community that values marine life and the ocean.
Launch your career
Salary range: $76,780What can I do with a marine biology degree?
Graduates with a concentration in marine biology become:
- Marine biologists
- Fisheries biologists
- Fisheries observers
- Research assistants
- Environmental educators
- Aquaculture technicians
- Conservationists
- Natural resource biologists
- Environmental consultants
Top employers
Curriculum
As a marine biology major, you'll learn the skills to:
- Conduct research, interpret scientific findings, and draw evidence-based conclusions
- Analyze biological data using statistics, experimental design, and quantitative methods
- Collect specimen and water samples
- Identify and understand marine organisms and the marine environment
- Apply scientific methods to investigate biological questions through laboratory and field research
You will take courses such as Oceanography, Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, Biology of Fishes, Marine Microbiology, Biology of Sharks, Coral Reef Biology, and more.
Real-world experience
Marine biology students can gain hands-on experience at local ocean and environmental centers, the region's zoo, and faculty research labs. You will have the opportunity to work in nearby coastal and offshore environments, as our campus is located near a variety of marine habitats.
Course descriptions and requirements
Explore the official academic catalog for detailed curriculum requirements, course descriptions and program information.
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Student Spotlight
- Hometown
- Acushnet, MA
- Major
- Marine Biology
- Minor
- Sustainability
- Internship
- Coastal Systems Program, Courage Builders
Accolades
UMass Dartmouth is a nationally ranked R2 research university that combines the resources of a major university with a personalized educational experience. Ranked among the top 15 public research institutions with fewer than 10,000 students and in the top 17% nationally for return on investment, UMass Dartmouth is recognized for advancing research, social mobility, and career-ready education.
Nationally ranked discovery across arts and sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences brings together nationally ranked programs, accomplished scholars, and research with measurable impact. Its faculty includes eight Fulbright Scholars and has secured more than $14 million in grants over three years, creating opportunities for students to learn through research, creative inquiry, and community engagement.
Frequently asked questions
Have questions about the Marine Biology BS program? Here you will find answers to common questions about admissions, curriculum, career outcomes, and student experience.
By adding the marine biology concentration, you can focus your study on marine life and ocean biology. This program is helpful if you are interested in pursuing a master's degree in the field of marine biology, or are interested in working with marine life on the ocean, in aquaculture, or in aquariums/zoos.
No, adding the marine biology concentration does not add more credits to your degree.
UMass Dartmouth offers a Master of Science in Biology or Marine Biology, and a PhD in Marine Science. UMass Dartmouth biology students often go on to attend UMass Dartmouth's School of Marine Science and Technology, located on the water in nearby New Bedford.
Yes, we offer a SCUBA certification program for enrolled students.
If you are passionate about the marine environment, plan on pursuing a graduate degree in marine science, and have an interest in biology, chemistry, math, and laboratory work, this concentration is a good fit.
The Marine Biology BS program is designated as a STEM degree and may qualify eligible F-1 international students for the 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training (STEM OPT) extension after completing standard post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Eligibility for STEM OPT is determined by U.S. immigration regulations and individual student circumstances. To learn about eligibility requirements and the application process, review the International Student & Scholar Center (ISSC) OPT page and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) STEM OPT guidance. F-1 students must work with the ISSC to apply for a STEM OPT extension.