Marine and Coastal Science-Marine Ecology and Organismal Biology University of California, Davis

Overview

The Marine and Coastal Science-Marine Ecology and Organismal Biology programme at the University of California, Davis offers an immersive scientific education focused on protecting ocean environments. Students engage with complex global challenges by studying the natural and physical sciences through an applied, research-driven lens.

This major provides a deep dive into the ecological processes that dictate the distribution and abundance of marine life. By focusing on organismal biology, the curriculum addresses how species evolve and adapt to the unique pressures of coastal and oceanic ecosystems across the globe.

The learning experience is defined by a collaborative approach that connects students with globally recognised experts.

Why Marine and Coastal Science-Marine Ecology and Organismal Biology at the University of California, Davis?

The university stands out for its exceptional facilities, including the Bodega Marine Laboratory and the Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute. These locations provide students with direct access to diverse marine habitats, facilitating high-impact fieldwork and sophisticated laboratory experiments.

Teaching is delivered by a distinguished faculty from the College of Biological Sciences, ensuring that the curriculum remains at the forefront of modern ecology. The programme emphasises interdisciplinary cooperation, allowing students to draw upon expertise from various scientific departments to solve environmental problems.

Undergraduates are encouraged to participate in hands-on research projects, often working alongside faculty on initiatives that influence ocean policy and conservation. This distinctive focus on undergraduate research prepares students for leadership roles in the scientific community and environmental management sectors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 37602 per year
• National fee: USD 37602 per year
• Local fee: USD 14934 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum begins with a foundational core in the physical and natural sciences before moving into specialised ecological study. Modules may include:

• Mathematics
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Biology
• Earth Sciences
• Marine Science
• Ecological Processes
• Evolution

The programme concludes with a mandatory capstone research course, where students apply their cumulative knowledge to a specific scientific inquiry within the marine environment.

Careers with Marine and Coastal Science-Marine Ecology and Organismal Biology

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse professional paths in environmental protection, resource management, and scientific research. Many alumni secure roles as marine biologists, fisheries biologists, oceanographers, or coastal geologists within governmental and private organisations.

Potential career titles include aquaculture specialists, ecotoxicologists, and ocean policy coordinators. Graduates have found employment with prestigious institutions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and various environmental consultancy firms.

The rigorous scientific training also serves as an excellent foundation for advanced graduate study. Students frequently pursue further degrees in law, teaching, environmental sciences, or biological oceanography to enhance their expertise and career prospects in the global marine sector.