Bachelor of Science in Marine Science | Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Fla.

Bachelor of ScienceMarine Science

Marine biology student taking pictures of coral under water.

Why Choose Our Program?

A Bachelor of Science in Marine Science emphasizes the multi-disciplined approach necessary to understand the marine environment. Using a diverse offering of marine science courses, the major includes a strong foundation in the elements of chemistry, physics, and physical science as well as life sciences. Students may focus their studies in one or more of these areas by careful selection of their elective courses.

Marine Science students have direct campus access to the St. Johns River and are only minutes from the Atlantic Ocean. Plus, within two hours, they can be in an estuary, spring-fed river, seagrass marsh, mangrove, coral reef, or cypress swamp. There is no better place to experience a range of marine environments. At JU, Biology majors have the opportunity to work with faculty experts in unique and engaging research experiences. Students who wish to experience undergraduate research can register for an independent study and identify a faculty member, whose area of expertise matches their interests, to work alongside.

More About Biology & Marine Science

Potential Career Pathways

Aquatic scientist
Research biologist
Biological scientist
Biologist
Botanist
Fish and wildlife agent
Horticulturist
Marine biologist
Microbiologist
Natural resource manager
Parks and recreation specialist
Wildlife biologist
Zoologist

Marine biology students taking measurements on the beach.

About Our Program

Marine Science students at Jacksonville University learn through an unprecedented hands-on research experience, fostering future success in undergraduate and postgraduate fields. With a strong foundation in biology and oceanography, the program incorporates elements of chemistry, physics, physical science, and life sciences, to help further students’ knowledge of the environment and understanding of conservation and sustainable practices.

The requirements for the Marine Science major are designed to develop core knowledge, while allowing flexibility for students' individual career goals. As a Marine Science major, students will select an emphasis in Oceanography or Marine Biology and take courses that align with their interests. Courses include innovative investigative laboratories, emphasizing active learning and technology. The curriculum includes valuable writing and research components, preparing students for their future professions. Students also have the option of taking Biology courses to explore individual passions and interests.

The Department of Biology and Marine Science is housed in the 32,000 square-foot LEED GOLD Marine Science Research Institute (MSRI), Reid Medical Sciences Building, and the Nelms Buildings. Practical and theoretical training are integral to both areas of concentration. Students gain hands-on experiences through the use of university research vessels, a state-of-the-art floating classroom, and the vast natural laboratories of the St. Johns River and the neighboring Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

Gain Practical and Hands-on Experiences

Industry professionals in the Marine Science Research Institute (MSRI) perform diverse studies of local freshwater, estuarine, and saltwater conditions, then work closely with professors and students to connect concepts in the classroom with applications in the workplace. OCEARCH at Jacksonville University, based in the MSRI, provides unequaled opportunities for students to gain real-world, hands-on experience in ocean research.

Faculty

MSRI

OCEARCH at JU