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Marine Biology

The major provides students with a broad understanding of the basic biological and ecological principles as they relate to the marine ecosystems.  Core courses will expose students to the discovery nature of science and educate them in their roles as global citizens in preserving the health of the marine environment.  The major prepares students to enter careers and advanced studies in biological research, environmental science and conservation.

Curriculum

Marine Biology Major

Thirteen (13) courses totaling at least 68 semester hours are required: seven (7) core biology courses, a field study course, three (3) core physical science courses, and two (2) biology elective courses from an approved list.

Core Biology courses (8 courses)

  • BIO 120 General Biology I

  • BIO 121 General Biology II

  • BIO 210 Introduction to Marine Science

  • Bio 236 Invertebrate Biology

  • BIO 308 Genetics OR BIO 341 Molecular Biology

  • BIO 316 Ecology 

  • BIO 335 Marine Biology with Laboratory

  • BIO 435 Senior Seminar in Marine Biology OR approved BIO 499 in Marine Biology

Core Physical Science courses (3 courses)

  • CHM 120 Chemistry 

  • CHM 220 Organic Chemistry I

  • CHM 221 Organic Chemistry II

Field Study Requirement 

Approved field experience in marine biology, including one (1) of the following.

  • BIO 385F Marine Biology Laboratory: Central Pacific

  • BIO 386F Marine Biology Laboratory: Caribbean

  • BIO 387F Marine Biology Laboratory: Florida

  • One (1) semester in residence at an approved marine field station*

  • One (1) approved internship

Biology elective

One (1) elective from the following list, or another course approved by Program Chair.

  • BIO 229 Microbiology

  • BIO 312 Animal Physiology

  • BIO 342 Biostatistics

  • BIO 498 Independent Study: Biological Research

Recommendations

Students preparing for graduate programs in any area of biology or professional school require a thorough introduction to physics, Chemistry, and Calculus. Therefore, they are advised to take CHM 320, PHY 120 or 130, PHY 121 or 131, Calculus, and Statistics.  

* Currently approved field stations are Duke University Marine Lab and  the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute.