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Marine Science, M.S.

Advance Your Training and Research in Marine Science

Our alumni work in:

Design and develop technology to study and find solutions to marine issues.

Assess and advise on matters related to the management of environmental issues.

Conduct research at a university or college.

Teach the next generation of scientists and researchers.

Work for local, state and federal agencies conducting research and impacting policy.

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Learn To

Gain a broad interdisciplinary understanding of marine science

Develop skills that will enable you to solve complex marine environmental problems

Marine Science, M.S. Program Overview

Build a Strong Foundation in Marine Science

Be a part of a marine science program internationally recognized for excellence. Our program offers a multitude of opportunities for experiential learning through research and service.

Your course of study provides you with the foundation to succeed in marine-related industries, environmental management, teaching, research and other marine-oriented careers. It will also prepare you to undertake additional graduate study in a doctoral program.

The program provides a broad interdisciplinary understanding of marine science to students with strong undergraduate training in mathematics and the sciences.

You will develop skills and knowledge to solve complex marine environmental problems.

Work with Expert Researchers

Our expert faculty and staff are an invaluable resource, and their commitment to excellence is the foundation of UNCW's great reputation for marine and coastal research.

Join faculty scholars on research with regional and global significance from rising ocean waters to natural resource management and protection of marine mammals.

A professor takes a water sample from a fish tank in a marine science lab

Sample Courses in Marine Science, M.S. Program

Table shows sample courses for this program
PHY 575 Physical Oceanography
GLY 550 Marine Geology
BIO 564 Biological Oceanography
CHM 575 Chemical Oceanography
BIO/CHM/GLY 501 Methods in Scientific Research
MSC 595 Graduate Seminar
MSC 599 Thesis
See The Full Curriculum

Admission Deadlines & Requirements

Information: M.S. Marine Science

Apply Now

  • Complete applications are reviewed for admission by the program as they are received.
  • All application and supporting documents must be received by the published deadline.

Coordinator:

Location/Delivery Method:

  • Main Campus

Deadlines (11:59 p.m. EST)

  • Spring 2025:
    • Deadline: November 1, 2024
  • Fall 2025:
    • Priority Consideration: March 15, 2025
    • Space Available Deadline: July 1, 2025

Transcripts

  • One official transcript is required from each U.S. post-secondary institution attended. Refer to the Getting Started page for international transcript instructions.

Test Scores

  • GRE General Test
  • WAIVED - Test scores are waived for this program during 2025 due to the pandemic.
  • No additional action required. Test scores will be waived during application processing.

Recommendations

  • 3 recommendations by individuals in professionally relevant fields

Additional Requirements

  1. Upload Supplemental Documents After Application Submission
  2. Statement of Research Interest: Include names of potential faculty advisors
  3. Degree Requirements: Baccalaureate degree with a concentration in a natural science or mathematics
  4. Note: It is strongly recommended to contact program coordinator before applying

Learn More about the

M.S. in Marine Science

Learn More about the

Center for Marine Science

Are You an International Student?

This is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security STEM designated program that allows eligible F1 international students to apply for a 24-month optional practical training extension.

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