Marine Biology Florida Atlantic University

Overview

The Marine Biology programme at Florida Atlantic University provides an exceptional academic foundation for students dedicated to understanding the complexities of oceanic life. This specialised concentration is delivered through the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, combining rigorous scientific inquiry with hands-on field experiences.

Students benefit from a unique partnership with the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, where several advanced classes are conducted. This collaboration allows undergraduates to work alongside professional researchers in world-class facilities located in Fort Pierce, bridging the gap between classroom theory and practical application.

The curriculum is designed to explore the 71% of our planet covered by water, much of which remains unexplored by modern science.

Why Marine Biology at Florida Atlantic University?

The institution stands out for its prestigious faculty and its strategic location near some of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the United States. Students have unparalleled access to the Florida coast, which serves as a living laboratory for studying sea life and environmental conservation strategies.

A defining feature of the programme is the mandatory Honors Thesis, which spans two semesters. This capstone project allows students to conduct original research under faculty mentorship, fostering critical thinking and technical writing skills that are highly valued by graduate schools and scientific employers.

The programme also emphasises interdisciplinary excellence, integrating advanced mathematics, physics, and statistics into the biological sciences. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only biologists but also capable data analysts and scientific problem-solvers equipped for modern environmental challenges.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 20760 per year
• National fee: USD 20760 per year
• Local fee: USD 5976 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Biological Principles with Lab
• Biodiversity with Lab
• General Chemistry I with Lab
• General Chemistry II with Lab
• Calculus I with Analytic Geometry
• Introductory Statistics
• General Physics I with Lab
• Genetics
• Marine Biology and Oceanography with Lab
• Marine Ecology and Lab
• Honors Thesis
• Biochemistry
• Oceanography
• Marine Microbiology and Molecular Biology and Lab
• Marine Biodiversity and Lab
• Marine Science
• Marine Botany with Lab
• Experimental Design and Data Analysis
• Aquaculture Principles & Practice
• Exploring the Ocean
• Biology of Sea Turtles
• Florida Ecosystems
• Biology of Fishes and Lab
• Organic Chemistry I
• Organic Chemistry II
• Marine Conservation
• Evolution of Life on Earth
• Geographic Information Systems
• Deep Sea Biology
• Natural History Indian River Lagoon
• Microbiology and Lab
• Conservation Biology
• Animal Behavior
• Evolution
• Comparative Animal Physiology and Lab
• Vertebrate Zoology with Lab
• Invertebrate Zoology and Lab
• Coral Reef Ecology
• Topics in Environ Microbio
• Molecular Ecology

Careers with Marine Biology

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within environmental consultancy, government agencies, and non-profit conservation organisations. The rigorous research training provided by the Honors College makes students highly competitive candidates for doctoral programmes and specialised master's degrees.

Potential career paths include working as marine biotechnologists, fisheries managers, or environmental educators. The technical skills gained in geographic information systems and molecular ecology also open doors to industries focused on sustainable resource management and coastal protection.