Dec 03, 2024  
Undergraduate Catalog 2024-2025 
    
Undergraduate Catalog 2024-2025

Marine Sciences, BS


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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 Science, BS Program Map   

Program of Study


Core IMPACTS Curriculum(43 Hrs)


Core IMPACTS Curriculum  

Required in Mathematics & Quantitative Skills Core Area


Electives (32 Hrs)


A minimum of 20 hrs must be > 3000 level

Marines Sciences Electives


Choose Two (2) of the Following:

Marine Sciences Tools Electives


Math/Science Electives


Other COST Electives (12-16 Hrs)


Two should be MSCI classes.

Extra hours in above elective areas count here.

Total: 120 Hours


*A grade of “C” or better is required

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