Fundamentally, this field is the application of various areas of biology as it requires the understanding of the organisms themselves in addition to their habitats, interactions, and adaptations. Marine Biology Colleges are colleges where Marine biology is studied and there are a number of such colleges in the world but among them are few that are known to be the best colleges for Marine biology In countries like the United States and other countries of the world, there are a lot of schools that offer best marine biology programs. The data from the US Department of Labor has it that employment rates and career opportunities for graduates of marine biology and marine sciences are expected to rise in no time. Marine biology is obviously one of the courses you would want to study as it is quite interesting. If your plan is to become a marine biologist and you are looking for one of the best schools to choose from, we are glad to let you know that you are at the right place, so, congratulations.
Is a marine biology degree worth it? Why study marine biology?
Oftentimes courses could be demanding to the extent that one starts asking whether the efforts put in is commensurate to/ worth the degree that will be earned at the end of the day. This is oftentimes the case with students studying marine biology. To the question of whether a marine biology degree is worth it or not, my answer is yes! This is so because of the following reasons: Marine biology education is part of deep-sea exploration hence a marine biologist has much knowledge at his disposal with regards to facts about underwater exploration. This biology degree is worth it because it is a science that studies life phenomena, processes, and laws in the water body. Marine biology is a focal subject of Marine science and also an exhaustive interdisciplinary subject, covering the functions of Marine organisms, Marine biodiversity, and ecology. The degrees provided by schools that offer marine biology include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Some good colleges for marine biologists afford students the privilege to earn two degrees (combined bachelor’s and master’s degree education in marine biology) in a comparatively short time. Marine biology program commonly covers research and laboratory methods, research marine biology kits, and professional science marine biology articles to write Studying marine biology and graduating successfully makes one established in different areas of specialization through electives, independent study classes, and a thesis through marine biology textbooks and professors.
What do Marine Biologists do?
The job description of marine biologists includes the following:
Study of marine organisms in their natural habitats.Investigation of a population’s behaviors or physiology.Assessment of the condition of habitats, and the effects of human activity on those animals and habitats.
The research commonly carried out by marine biologists includes the following:
conducting species inventories,testing and monitoring sea creatures exposed to pollutants,collecting and testing ocean samples,preserving specimens and samples of unknown species and diseases, andmapping the distribution, ranges, or movements of marine populations.
Periodically, they may also communicate their findings and recommendations by writing reports and scientific journal articles. The area of specialization of some marine biologists is marine biotechnology where they investigate the adaptations and advantages of marine species and how they might be useful to industrial processes. Read also: 10 Best Colleges for Oceanography in 2022 | Schools, Requirements, cost
Where do marine biologists work?
The majority of marine biologists are employed by state and federal government agencies. These positions are known for offering greater job security and more room for advancement. The majority of marine biologists work at private research laboratories or consulting firms. Others work for aquariums, zoos, and museums, or become faculty members in different tertiary institutions while some become high school science teachers. They are known for conducting research which usually makes them spend a significant amount of time outdoors. The following often makes up the fieldwork of Marine biologists:
working on ships to locate, tag, and monitor marine animals and their movements, andcollection of seawater samples.
What is the job outlook of marine biologists?
Oftentimes, there is the question: “is it hard to find a job as a marine biologist.” Finding a job as a marine biologist largely depends on the individual, rather than on the job market. The marketability of an individual will be the main factor in determining whether or not he will find a job as a marine biologist. To be very marketable as a marine biologist, you are to spend time ensuring that you are well-prepared for this career, and most likely, you will spend less time looking for a job. According to the report by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth rate for all zoologists and wildlife biologists is placed at 7 percent from 2010 to 2020. This is slower than average. Information from the DISCOVER career information system has it that marine biologist jobs are expected to grow at a rate of 1.3 percent annually. These statistics exclude account degree or experience level. Some marine biologists should be expectant of a better outlook than others — such as those with master’s or Ph.D. degrees or impressive work experience and marketability.
How much does a marine biologist make?
As of Jun 29, 2021, a Marine Biologist in the United States earns an average monthly pay of $5,518. ZipRecruiter sees monthly salaries of Marine biologists as high as $8,167 and as low as $1,750. While this is the case, the majority of Marine Biologist salaries currently range between $3,792 (25th percentile) to $7,042 (75th percentile) across the US. There is a great variation in the average pay range for a Marine Biologist (by as much as $3,250). This suggests that there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location, and years of experience, among many other criteria.
Which body accredits marine biology programs?
Talking about accreditation for marine biology degrees, well-known postsecondary schools voluntarily submit to a process of accreditation, whereby an independent accreditor carries out an evaluation on a school’s academic offerings according to set standards. To determine the quality of the program offered by a school, you are to examine its accreditation. Institutions that are nonprofit degree-focused commonly seek regional accreditation while for-profit vocational and sectarian schools often apply for another accreditation – national. There’s the tendency for stakeholders to hold regional accreditation in higher esteem because there’s the application of a more rigorous process of evaluation by regional accreditors. Beyond signifying the quality of education offered by a school, accreditation also determines the funding available to students. For instance, the United States Department of Education directs financial aid only through accredited institutions. As a student, in order to apply for financial assistance from the government, you must enroll in an accredited school or program. The following bodies are in charge of the accreditation of marine biology-related courses at the University of Southampton:
The Geological Society of LondonInstitute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST)
How much does it cost to complete a marine biology program?
To complete a marine biology program, an applicant is to note that the average tuition & fees of the Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography program are placed at $11,410 and $34,549 for state residents and non-domestic students respectively for the academic year 2022-2023. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the average tuition costs of colleges offering Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography program is $34,549 and $27,306 for undergraduate and graduate programs respectively.
How many years does it take to complete a marine biology program?
To become a certified marine biologist from any of the best marine biology colleges, you must complete a bachelor’s degree program which takes a minimum of four years. To obtain a master’s degree in Marine biology, it might take you an additional two to three years to complete the required courses for this degree. Earning a Ph.D. in Marine biology will take at least six years.
How does one apply for marine biology programs? What are the requirements you need to apply for marine biology programs?
There is a process for becoming a Marine Biologist and it can take as little as obtaining a biology degree or as much as bagging a doctorate (Ph.D.). This is the case because job options are so wide-ranging. To become a marine biologist, there is a basic process to follow and it is as follows:
Gain recreational, voluntary and high school experience in life sciencesTake science electives in high schoolEarn a bachelor’s degree in biologyGet an entry-level job in marine biologyObtain advanced degrees (master’s and doctorate), according to career goals.
Also read: 13 Best Colleges For Environmental Science in 2022
The Top 10 Best Colleges for Marine Biology in the World
Listed below are the top 10 best colleges for marine biology in the world, the programs they offer, tuition, school ranking, acceptance rate, and the school’s marine biology program link brought to you by World Scholarship Forum (WSF). They include:
Duke UniversityBoston UniversityUniversity of North CarolinaEckerd CollegeUniversity of California-Los AngelesOregon State UniversityUniversity of MaineUniversity of New HampshireStony Brook UniversityCalifornia State University – Long Beach
1. Duke University
Duke University is among the universities that offer the best marine biology programs and a private institution and was founded in 1838. It belongs to one of the top schools in the United States that offer an undergraduate degree in biology with a concentration in marine biology. Tuition: $60,488 School ranking: Duke University ranks #12 in National Universities, #9 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, and #13 in Best Value Schools. Acceptance Rate: 8.6% (2022) PROGRAM LINK
2. Boston University
Boston University does offer graduate degrees in marine biology but only undergraduate degree. The Boston University Marine Program, well known as BUMP, is located within the College of Arts and Sciences at Boston University is the Boston University Marine Program. BUMP focuses on research in areas like marine conservation, ocean exploration, functional genomics, to mention but a few. The degree offered by BUMP includes multiple opportunities for undergraduate research and honors courses. Number of programs offered: 5 Tuition: $58,560 School ranking: Ranked #42 in 2021 edition of Best Colleges among National Universities Acceptance Rate: 22.1% Program link:
3. University of North Carolina
Located in Chapel Hill, NC, the University of North Carolina offers multiple degree programs focused on marine sciences. This university was founded in 1789 and has a booming population of over 18,000 undergraduate students. The school is quite large in population but though that, it makes attentive education available to students. The University of North Carolina has many graduate and undergraduate degree programs alike and offers both advanced and introductory coursework in marines sciences and is among the good colleges for marine biologist. Number of programs offered: 4 Tuition: 36,159 USD school ranking University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill ranks #28 in National Universities Acceptance Rate: 21.9% Program link:
5. Eckerd College
Located in St. Petersburg, FL, Eckerd College is open to students who have an interest in pursuing degrees in marine biology Aad is among the best marine biology colleges. Eckerd College offers four specialization areas in the field of marine biology which include the following: Marine Geophysics, Marine Biology, Marine Geology, and Marine Chemistry. Eckerd College is popular for combining extensive opportunities in research with professional preparedness, intensive laboratory experiences, and affordable financing options. Number of programs offered: 5 Tuition: $47,704 school ranking Eckerd College’s ranking in the 2021 edition of Best Colleges is National Liberal Arts Colleges Acceptance Rate: Eckerd College has an acceptance rate of about 67% Program link: Read also: 17 Best Colleges with Film Production Majors in 2022
5. University of California-Los Angeles
There are over 337 undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered at the University of California-Los Angeles that applicants are to choose from which makes it seem difficult to find the right program for your career goals when you are studying at the University of California-Los Angeles. Be that as it may, the marine biology degree is a clear standout, making available to students all the skills needed to succeed in the workforce upon graduation. The degree in Marine biology offered by the University of California-Los Angeles is designed for students wishing to take on a specialization in marine biology. While also giving room for customization in topics such as the subtidal and intertidal ecology, physiology of marine organisms, and oceanography. Number of programs offered: 4 Tuition: Local tuition:13,240 USD, Domestic tuition: 42,994 USD School ranking: University of California-Los Angeles is ranked 15th in the world and number 2 among U.S. public universities. Acceptance Rate: The University of California-Los Angeles has an acceptance rate of 16.1% Program link:
6. Oregon State University
Located in Corvallis, OR, the marine biology program of the Oregon State University is offered via the Hatfield Marine Science Center. The program is for students who might not necessarily have a background in marine biology or ecology. Students who have biology or non-biology majors may take part in this degree program, which has three separate start terms throughout the calendar year. Number of programs offered: 5 Tuition: Local tuition: 11,715 USD, Domestic tuition: 31,215 USD School ranking: Oregon State University ranks #153 in the 2021 edition of Best Colleges among National Universities, Acceptance Rate: Oregon State University has an acceptance rate of 86%. Program Link
7. University of Maine
Founded in 1865, the University of Maine is a public university with a campus located in a rural area about an hour from the Atlantic coast. This university has fewer than 10,000 undergraduate students and is among the best marine biology colleges. The marine biology program offered by the University of Maine is considered to be one of the top programs in the United States and is available in both undergraduate and graduate fields of study. Number of programs offered: 5 Tuition: Local tuition: 11,438 USD, Domestic tuition: 31,748 USD School ranking: University of Maine ranks #600 in the US college ranking. Acceptance Rate: 84.8% Program link:
8. University of New Hampshire
The first interdisciplinary school of the University of New Hampshire is the School of Marine Science and Ocean Engineering, which is among the best marine biology colleges. This university offers marine science classes that are exceptional. The program provides students who have an interest in marine and freshwater biology the skills and education to pursue a wide variety of careers and graduate studies. This program affords you the opportunity to specialize in an area of interest such as aquaculture or animal behavior. Number of programs offered: 4 Tuition: In-State: $33,750 School ranking: the University of New Hampshire is ranked 143 in the 2021 edition of Best Colleges among National Universities. Acceptance Rate: 73.9% Program Link
9. Stony Brook University
Located in Stony Brook, NY, Stony Brook University is among the best colleges for marine biology and is a public institution that was founded in 1957. The marine biology program is among the few programs offered by the Stony Brook University that brings the theory life back through employing the power of hands-on learning in all of its programs. The marine biology degree is administered by the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences and is among the top oceanographic institutions in the nation. Number of programs offered: 5 Tuition: In state: $14,032 Out of State: $25,820 School ranking: Stony Brook University is ranked #88 in the 2021 edition of Best Colleges among National Universities, Acceptance Rate: 42% Program Link
10. California State University – Long Beach
The California State University – Long Beach is a public university and was founded in 1949. There’s just one program offered at the California State University – Long Beach and that is the Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology. You can choose to pursue a graduate degree in marine biology in this school too. Number of programs offered: 5 Tuition: In State: $6,834 Read: 10 Best Colleges For Orthodontists In 2022 Out of State: $18,714 School ranking: Ranked #14 in the 2021 edition of Best Colleges among Regional Universities West, Acceptance Rate: California State University – Long Beach has an acceptance rate of 31.6 Program Link Marine biology bachelor’s programs commonly take four years to earn the degree. This is typical of other undergraduate degrees which take four years to complete too. The majority of the tertiary institutions offering a bachelor’s degree in marine biology require on-campus/physical attendance to classes. Nevertheless, some educational institutions offer specific courses online. There are postgraduate programs in several fields that can often be explored by graduates of an accredited bachelor’s in marine biology program. These programs can include the following:
marine conservation,evolutionary ecology in aquatic environments, andmarine science and climate change.
The best country to study marine biology is Costa Rica. This is the case because the country is one of the most biologically intense countries and is home to 4% of all the species in the world. The journey to becoming a respectable marine biologist is a long and arduous one. To pursue a marine biologist career, you need to choose subjects such as physics, mathematics, and chemistry, and of course – biology during your undergraduate years.
Conclusion
A degree in marine biology, as you’ve seen, is worth it as there are numerous benefits in studying marine biology. As a marine biologist, your job responsibility would be to study marine organisms in their natural habitats, investigate a population’s behaviors or physiology, and assess the condition of habitats, and the effects of human activity on those animals and habitats among many others. As a marine biologist, you can work in private research laboratories or consulting firms, aquariums, zoos, and museums, etc. Indeed, marine biology is among the sought-after courses in the world and can have a lot in store for you.
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