Faculty working with students in the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program in integrative marine biology

Marine Biology

Offered as: 
On-campus
Undergraduate
STEM
STEM OPT
Concentration

Major in biology with a concentration in marine biology

Do you dream of exploring the ocean environment, conserving species, and understanding the complexity of marine organisms? UMass Dartmouth's Biology department offers a bachelor's degree in biology with a concentration in marine biology.

When you study marine biology at UMass Dartmouth, you begin with a solid foundation in fundamental biological principles and practices. Then you'll focus on your specific interests, from the biology of sharks and fishes to marine ecology.

Our faculty's research interests in marine and coastal biology place them at the forefront of their fields, from molecular and cellular biology to marine and terrestrial ecology.

We emphasize field and laboratory opportunities, so you will learn marine biology while studying living organisms. Our nearby coastal environments will be your living laboratories.

You'll be prepared for employment in biological oceanography, ecology, education, fisheries biology, industry, marine biology, project management, and research fields. With a strong background in fundamental biological principles and practices, you'll be prepared for graduate study in marine biology and related disciplines.

Our curriculum emphasizes a diversity of ecological and evolutionary approaches including the study of fishes, invertebrates, marine mammals, marine microbiology, marine science, and oceanography.

For the major, you'll take courses in biology, marine biology, and related science and mathematics courses, which totals 120 credits.

Course descriptions, schedules and requirements

Student success

Joseph Zottoli '16

Joseph Zottoli '16 researched American horseshoe crabs during his internship at Rutgers University.

Graduate School Placements

  • Baylor College of Medicine
  • Brown University
  • New York University

Career Placements

  • Barnstable Public Schools
  • Cape Cod Veterinary Specialists
  • Environmental Operating Solutions, Inc.
  • MIT Lincoln Laboratory
  • National Rehabilitation Hospital
  • Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.
  • Zoo New England

UMassD advantages

  • Internships: gain hands-on experience at ocean and environmental centers, the region's zoo, and faculty research labs
  • Travel: participate in one of our expeditions to the Galapagos Islands
  • Community: join the Biology Association and attend special events for biology majors

International (F-1) students who receive science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) degrees may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion optional practical training (OPT). To learn about the eligibility criteria and detailed steps to apply, please review the International Student & Scholar Center (ISSC) OPT page and USCIS resources. F-1 students must consult with the ISSC to apply for STEM OPT.

Expand your opportunities

UMassD's undergraduate experiences

Honors College student
Honors College

Take advanced courses, pursue research, and be part of a community of scholars.

Study abroad student
Study Abroad

Earn academic credits and gain a global perspective on your field.

Bhen with his art students at Talibon Elementary School in Bohol, Philippines.
Undergraduate Research

Faculty work with students on cutting-edge research projects.

Student studying at Claire T. Carney Library
University Studies

Gain the benefit of a broad university education to enhance your knowledge and skills.