Best Marine Sciences institutions in the US, ranked by earnings
Compare 33 U.S. colleges offering Marine Sciences by graduate earnings, cost, and outcomes. Federal data across 15 states.
About Marine Sciences programs
The Marine Sciences program is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the study of oceanic and coastal environments. It encompasses various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, and environmental science, making it ideal for students interested in understanding marine ecosystems and their interactions with human activities. This program is suited for those passionate about marine life and environmental conservation.
Students in the Marine Sciences program will develop essential skills such as reading comprehension, critical thinking, and effective communication. Coursework typically includes environmental data analysis, pollution monitoring, and understanding environmental regulations, equipping graduates with the knowledge needed to address complex marine issues.
Top 3 institutions, ranked by graduate earnings
Earnings = median 1 year after graduation (College Scorecard, predominant credential).
| # | Institution | Grad earnings (1 yr) | Completions | Grad rate | Net price | Median debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Maine Orono, ME Public · Bachelor's degree | $29,243 | 71 | 55% | — | $27,000 |
| 2 | California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA Public · Bachelor's degree | $27,337 | 24 | 86% | — | — |
| 3 | California State University - Monterey Bay Seaside, CA Public · Bachelor's degree | $27,268 | 108 | 59% | — | $17,800 |
Offered across 15 states
The same program, compared state by state. Pick a state for in-state earnings and institutions.
| State | Institutions | Median earnings | Top institution by earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mainelimited | 2 | $29,243 | University of Maine |
| California | 6 | $27,337 | California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo |
| Alabamalimited | 1 | — | — |
| Alaskalimited | 1 | — | — |
| Florida | 3 | — | — |
| Georgialimited | 2 | — | — |
| Hawaiilimited | 1 | — | — |
| Marylandlimited | 1 | — | — |
| Massachusetts | 4 | — | — |
| New Jerseylimited | 1 | — | — |
| New Yorklimited | 1 | — | — |
| Ohiolimited | 1 | — | — |
| Oregonlimited | 1 | — | — |
| Texas | 4 | — | — |
| Washingtonlimited | 1 | — | — |
Careers & outlook
The payoff after graduation: occupation 19-2041, Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health, and its national outlook.
Graduates of the Marine Sciences program can pursue careers in various sectors, including government agencies, environmental organizations, and industry. The job outlook is promising, with an expected growth rate of 4.4% and approximately 8,500 annual openings. A typical career in this field requires at least a Bachelor's degree, with a median wage of $80,060.
Top-paying metros
Related careers
Skills & knowledge in Marine Sciences programs
From the U.S. Dept. of Labor for the occupation this program most leads to.
Skills you'll build
Knowledge areas
What graduates do on the job
- Communicate scientific or technical information to the public, organizations, or internal audiences through oral briefings, written documents, workshops, conferences, training sessions, or public hearings.
- Monitor effects of pollution or land degradation and recommend means of prevention or control.
- Collect, synthesize, analyze, manage, and report environmental data, such as pollution emission measurements, atmospheric monitoring measurements, meteorological or mineralogical information, or soil or water samples.
- Review and implement environmental technical standards, guidelines, policies, and formal regulations that meet all appropriate requirements.
- Provide scientific or technical guidance, support, coordination, or oversight to governmental agencies, environmental programs, industry, or the public.
- Process and review environmental permits, licenses, or related materials.
Tools & technology
Concentrations within Marine Sciences
Specializations under this field (NCES CIP 2020).
- Marine SciencesCIP 30.3201
A program that focuses on the study of biology, chemistry, geology and physics applied to marine, estuarine and coastal environments
Common questions
What is the focus of the Marine Sciences program?+
The program focuses on the study of oceanic and coastal environments, integrating various scientific disciplines.
What skills will I develop in this program?+
You will develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and environmental data analysis.
What is the job outlook for Marine Sciences graduates?+
The job outlook is about as fast as average, with a growth rate of 4.4% and around 8,500 annual openings.
What level of education is typically required?+
A Bachelor's degree is typically required for careers in Marine Sciences.
Related programs
Other programs in the same field of study.
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