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MCOP Program Details

The Master of Coastal and Ocean Policy program prepares professionals to navigate and make informed decisions about coastal and ocean resources.

The MCOP program immerses students in a unique curriculum that advances technical knowledge of coastal and ocean processes and resources and working understanding of the concepts of policy making and implementation. Through elective choices, students develop knowledge and skills in concentrated areas of interest.

Proposed Two-Year Course Sequence

The MCOP curriculum has a three-pronged approach:

  1. Core courses provide students with foundations in policy analysis and relevant scientific knowledge. In addition, students culminate their experience through a two-semester sequence seminar and capstone project.
  2. Elective courses in policy and advanced science build on foundational material.
  3. Students are invited to explore course offerings throughout UNCW to meet individual interests and goals.

Full-time students complete the curriculum in two years. Part-time students may take no more than 5 years to complete the curriculum.

  • MCOP 501 and MCOP 502 are offered on alternating fall semesters.
Possible Course Sequence
Sample MCOP Curriculum
Year 1 Fall Year 1 Spring
Science of Coastal and Ocean Policy Issues Data Analysis/Quantitative Methods
Policy Analysis Coastal and Ocean Law
Environmental Economics Elective Example: Fisheries Management
Summer
3 credits of coursework or internship 
Year 2 Fall Year 2 Spring
Science of Coastal and Ocean Policy Issues Capstone
Seminar in Coastal and Ocean Policy Elective Example: Nonprofit Management
Elective Example: GIS Elective Example: Water Conflict and Cooperation

Electives

UNCW offers a wide range of electives from which to choose electives. For example:

BIO 564 - Biological Oceanography
BIO 560 - Estuarine Biology
ENG 575 - Professional Science Writing
ENG 577 - Grant and Proposal Writing
GGY 520 - Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems
MCOP 553 - Water: Conflict & Cooperation
MCOP 528 - North Carolina Coastal Issues and Experiences
MPA 506 - Program Evaluation
MPA 509 - Leading Public and Nonprofit Organizations
MPA 513 - Regional Planning Politics and Policy
MPA 517 - Strategic Planning and Management for Public and Non-Profit Organizations
MPA 541 - Public Economics and Cost-Benefit Analysis 

Students may consider seeking a certificate through another degree program (e.g. Conflict Management Resolution).  

Different electives satisfy different degree requirements. Be sure to remain in contact with the program coordinator and academic advisor to ensure appropriate course selection and degree requirements. For additional information about approved courses and academic policies, please see the academic catalog.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. MCOP students have a variety of backgrounds and interests including a diverse range of undergraduate training including, natural, physical and social sciences well as the humanities. 

MCOP graduates have gone on to explore a wide range of opportunities including accepting positions in the following areas:

  • Aquatic species research and monitoring supporting national sustainability policies
  • Alternative energy industries
  • Science communication consultancy
  • Leadership roles in implementing coastal and ocean policy for paramilitary agencies
  • Non-profit organizations promoting coastal stewardship
  • Coastal government planning
  • Doctoral programs
No.  While there are some opportunities for online or hybrid electives, the MCOP program can only be completed by residing in the Wilmington area and attending courses in person.
Yes. Some students complete the MCOP program on a part-time basis. Attending part time (1-2 classes a semester rather than 3) gives the you up to five years to complete the program.
Some students hold down full time jobs while completing their Master in Coastal and Ocean Policy. Most courses are offered in the late afternoon and evening for this reason. Those working full time tend towards participating in the program part-time. Full time students often hold part-time jobs in the community.   

Yes! All questions about financial aid should be directed to the UNCW Financial Aid office.

Non-North Carolina resident students with at least a partial teaching assistantships become eligible for an non-resident tuition waiver. A non-resident tuition waiver covers the difference in cost between out-of-state tuition and in-state tuition. Non-resident tuition waivers are allotted based on College of Science and Engineering funding availability.  
No. The Master of Coastal and Ocean Policy program is non-thesis based (there is no defense). Throughout the program there is opportunity for students to work with UNCW faculty on research projects of mutual interest. However, students are not required to find a Master's advisor, join a lab, or write a thesis.

Great question! Apply through the UNCW graduate school.

Apply

Contact Us

Dr. Jessica Weinkle

Phone: (910) 962-3512

weinklej@uncw.edu

Leutze Hall, Room 260
601 S. College Road
Wilmington, NC 28403

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