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9 Schools Excelling in Hands-On Marine Biology Learning
Marine biology is a dream field for students who want to combine science with a love of the ocean. The best programs go far beyond classroom lectures, offering direct experience in the field, on the water, and in research labs. For students who learn best by doing, these colleges provide immersive opportunities to study marine ecosystems, conduct research, and prepare for careers in science, conservation, and environmental leadership.
Here are 9 schools excelling in hands-on marine biology learning:
University of Oregon (Eugene, OR)
The University of Oregon offers the only dedicated marine biology degree on the Pacific Northwest coast. Students spend significant time at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, gaining field and lab experience, and can study tropical ecosystems abroad.
Eckerd College (St. Petersburg, FL)
Eckerd’s location on the Gulf of Mexico makes it a standout for undergraduate marine science. Programs like “Scientist at Sea” and dolphin population studies allow students to engage in research early in their college careers.
Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, FL)
NSU houses an entire marine sciences campus and marina. Students gain real-world experience through internships, fieldwork, and research presentations that connect them directly to professional opportunities.
St. Mary’s College of Maryland (St. Mary’s City, MD)
Located near Chesapeake Bay, St. Mary’s integrates field-based learning into its marine science courses. Students study ocean physics, chemistry, biology, and geology in a liberal arts environment.
California State University, Long Beach (Long Beach, CA)
CSU Long Beach offers the Catalina Semester, where students live and study on Santa Catalina Island. This unique program immerses students in hands-on marine biology in a stunning coastal environment.
University of Miami (Miami, FL)
The Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science is a global leader in marine biology. Students benefit from frequent field research opportunities and interdisciplinary programs that link marine science with climate and policy.
Texas A&M University, Galveston Campus (Galveston, TX)
Texas A&M Galveston provides access to modern maritime facilities and diverse coastal habitats. Students focus on fisheries science, aquaculture, and environmental monitoring while conducting field studies in the Gulf of Mexico.
Auburn University (Auburn, AL)
Auburn’s marine biology program emphasizes both lab and fieldwork in diverse environments. Students have opportunities ranging from Atlantic studies to Antarctic expeditions, creating a truly global perspective.
University of Maine (Orono, ME)
The University of Maine offers a Semester by the Sea program, combining classroom learning with extensive coastal fieldwork. Students can specialize in marine biology or aquaculture while conducting research on the Atlantic coast.