Overview

The Marine Science B.S. at the University of South Carolina offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the world's interconnected aquatic systems. Students explore diverse environments ranging from mountain streams to deep ocean trenches while developing essential scientific skills. This rigorous curriculum ensures graduates are well-equipped to address complex environmental challenges through evidence-based research and analysis.

The programme emphasises the practical application of geological, physical, chemical, and biological principles. By engaging in both laboratory work and field-based data collection, students gain a holistic view of marine environments. This balanced approach fosters critical thinking and analytical reasoning, which are vital for professional success in the global scientific community.

Why Marine Science at the University of South Carolina?

Students benefit from exceptional facilities such as the Baruch Marine Field Lab, located directly on the coast for hands-on research. The university is also a leading producer of NOAA Hollings Scholars, providing undergraduates with prestigious summer research experiences alongside professional marine scientists. Furthermore, unique local partnerships offer exclusive opportunities, such as aquatic animal internships at the Riverbanks Zoo.

Global perspectives are integrated into the degree through various study abroad options, allowing students to examine marine ecosystems in different international contexts. These experiences, combined with a focus on scientific writing and data simulation, ensure that graduates possess a competitive edge in the job market or when pursuing advanced postgraduate studies.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 36976 per semester
National fee: USD 36976 per semester
Local fee: USD 12288 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum begins with foundational oceanography before allowing students to specialise in areas such as Coastal Resource Management and Marine Policy. Modules may include:

Biological Oceanography
Geological Oceanography
Chemical Oceanography
Physical Oceanography
Coastal Resource Management
Marine Policy
Scientific Writing
Data Analysis
Research Methods

Careers with Marine Science

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional pathways within the science, education, and research sectors. The skills acquired during the programme enable students to pursue roles in both government agencies and private organisations. Potential career titles for alumni include:

Coral Ecologist
Deep Sea Biologist
Animal Trainer
Research Scientist
Marine Educator
Conservation Officer

Many students also choose to continue their academic journey by enrolling in advanced degree programmes, such as an M.S. or Ph.D. in Marine Science, to further specialise in specific areas of oceanographic research or environmental management.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Biology of Marine Organisms

Physical Oceanography

Chemistry of the Sea

Field and Laboratory Investigations in Marine Sciences

Senior Seminar

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Columbia, United States

Disciplines

Marine Science View 217 other Bachelors in Marine Science in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed application (including essay and activities section)
$65 application fee or valid fee waiver for eligible students
School report form
Unofficial high school transcript

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

73952 USD / year

≈ 73952 USD / year
Out-of-State

73952 USD / year

≈ 73952 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

24576 USD / year

≈ 24576 USD / year

Living costs

Columbia

United States

999 - 1508 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Marine Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Columbia

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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