If you're an aspiring scientist who loves the ocean, you may want to consider a bachelor's in marine biology or biological oceanography. In these scientific disciplines, students study the seas, the organisms that live in them, and how different biological and ecological factors impact ocean ecosystems. Marine biology and biological oceanography students can go on to pursue careers in research, conservation, environmental consultancy, and more.
As with many bachelor's degree programs, the time it takes to earn a degree in marine biology or biological oceanography and the cost of your education varies depending on a few different factors. Full-time programs typically take four years to complete. The cost depends on whether you pay in-state or out-of-state tuition, win scholarships, and more. Part-time or partially online programs
Due to fieldwork requirements, a marine biology and biological oceanography degree cannot be completed fully online. However, part-time or partially online programs can provide more flexibility and allow you to potentially save money on living expenses.
Our Top Pick
University of California, Los Angeles – Los Angeles, California
Why It's #1: The University of California, Los Angeles, is home to our top-ranked marine biology and biological oceanography program of 2022. With a beautiful Southern California location and an impressive 92% graduation rate, UCLA's program is appealing to aspiring marine biologists. As a state school, UCLA offers relatively affordable in-state tuition. Residents of California pay $11,442 per year for undergraduate programs before aid. Over 61% of students receive financial aid.
Best Accredited Bachelor's in Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography Programs
Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team
Popular Online Marine Biology & Biological Oceanography Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marine Biology and Biological Oceanography Programs
Is a bachelor's in marine biology and biological oceanography worth it?
Whether or not a bachelor's degree in marine biology and biological oceanography is "worth it" to you is a personal decision.
Remember that marine biology is not traditionally offered as an online course due to lab and fieldwork requirements. If you are passionate about the subject and will be able to complete the degree in four years or less, the opportunities offered by a marine biology and biological oceanography degree will likely be worth it to you.
However, if you are less interested in the subject, and the financial burden outweighs the benefits of the degree, you may want to consider other majors.
What can I do with a bachelor's in marine biology and biological oceanography?
Professionals with degrees in marine biology and biological oceanography have access to many career paths. Graduates can go on to become biologists working with marine life or scientists in labs seeking new information about the oceans and the creatures that live there.
Many marine biology graduates who are passionate about conservation might be interested in careers with conservation charities and nonprofits. They can also work as environmental consultants helping companies make choices that do the least harm to marine life. With further education, graduates may also go on to careers in business, medicine, and more.
What continuing education is available for marine biology and biological oceanography graduates?
Graduates of marine biology and biological oceanography undergraduate programs may be interested in continuing their education at the postgraduate level.Many marine biology and biological oceanography graduates pursuing careers in research go on to MS and Ph.D. programs immediately after obtaining their undergraduate degrees.
However, for those who do not want to immediately pursue postgrad education, there are many job opportunities that offer field training. Many students also opt to work for a few years after finishing their undergraduate degrees before returning to grad school.
How much money can I make with a bachelor's in marine biology and biological oceanography?
Given the wide variety of different careers available to graduates with a bachelor's degree in marine biology and biological oceanography, salaries vary significantly. According to Payscale, marine biologists made an average salary of $52,030 per year in May 2022.
However, that figure varies depending on your location and experience level, with the highest-paid marine biologists making up to $97,000 per year.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in marine biology and biological oceanography?
While the average marine biologist made $52,030 per year as of May 2022, according to Payscale, other marine biology and biological oceanography careers can pay more or less. Marine engineers earned an average of $79,980 per year, according to Payscale, with more experienced marine engineers making salaries over six figures.
If you want to maximize your earning potential after graduation, make sure to do your research about different marine biology career paths and their average starting salaries.
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