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Math, Science, and Technology

Undergraduate Symposium

The Undergraduate Student Symposium, sponsored by the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences, presents student projects and performances through oral presentations, paper submissions, and poster displays.

Marine Biology Major

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Description

The marine biology major is designed to prepare students for a career or further graduate study. The curriculum consists of a set of core courses in the biological and physical sciences, leading to a degree that is designed as a solid basis for entering the field of marine biology, as well as preparation for further graduate study in this area. A dual admission combined bachelor's-master's program with the Oceanographic Center is available for select, qualified students. Information on this program can be obtained from the undergraduate Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

The marine biology major is offered during the day on NSU’s main campus.

Learning Outcomes

A successful marine biology graduate is expected to:

  1. Understand basic scientific principles and methods
  2. Understand basic biology that incorporates more specific knowledge of marine organisms and habitats
  3. Appreciate the work of scientists who have contributed to marine biology and oceanography
  4. Demonstrate knowledge about the global variety of marine community types and their relationships with each other and terrestrial systems
  5. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of local marine flora and fauna and community types
  6. Demonstrate a working understanding of the wide variety of marine organisms from the phylogenetic, physiological, zoogeographical and ecological perspectives
  7. Understand anthropogenic threats to marine species diversity and marine ecosystem structure
  8. Understand the physical and chemical structure of the world’s oceans
  9. Demonstrate skills in statistical analysis and interpretation, specifically pertaining to science and marine biology
  10. Demonstrate technical skills related to the use of computer programs such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  11. Demonstrate oral presentation skills

Dual Admission Option

Please refer to the Dual Admissions Web site for additional information.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the marine biology program have a wide range of career opportunities open to them. These include:

  • Oceanographic research
  • Education
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Fisheries science
  • Aquaculture
  • Government agencies

With the selection of appropriate courses, a marine biology degree also opens possibilities for a career in the health professions. Marine biology graduates from NSU continue their studies in master's and doctoral programs in marine science, as well as medical, dental, veterinary, and other professional schools.