Marine and Coastal Science - Oceans and the Earth System University of California, Davis

Overview

The Marine and Coastal Science - Oceans and the Earth System at University of California, Davis offers a comprehensive scientific exploration of the world's aquatic environments. This multidisciplinary programme prepares students to address urgent global challenges such as ecological shifts, human pressures on coastlines, and the complexities of earth system history.

Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates biology, chemistry, and physics to understand the changing nature of our oceans. The programme emphasises hands-on learning and collaborative thinking, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the technical skills required for modern environmental conservation and marine research.

Why Marine and Coastal Science - Oceans and the Earth System at University of California, Davis?

This programme is distinguished by its direct connection to the Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute and the Bodega Marine Laboratory. These institutions provide students with unique access to globally-recognised experts and specialised resources for fieldwork and advanced research projects.

The curriculum is designed to offer mastery in diverse subjects, including atmospheric science, international relations, and wildlife conservation. Undergraduates have the opportunity to work directly with faculty members in labs, participating in hundreds of research initiatives that bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Beyond the classroom, the university supports global learning through study abroad programmes and extensive internship opportunities. These experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing their professional development within the field of marine and coastal sciences.

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 foundational studies in mathematics, chemistry, physics, biology, and earth sciences. Modules may include:

• Atmospheric Science
• Environmental Science and Management
• Environmental Policy
• Evolution and Ecology
• Geology
• International Relations
• Science and Society
• Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology
• Marine Science

Careers with Marine and Coastal Science - Oceans and the Earth System

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in environmental protection, research, and resource management. Common career paths include positions as aquaculture specialists, coastal geologists, fisheries biologists, and marine ecologists. Many alumni also find success in aquarium operations management or as ecotoxicologists.

The programme provides a strong foundation for advanced graduate study in fields such as biological oceanography, international studies, law, and teaching. Graduates have secured employment with prestigious organisations, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the AmeriCorps programme.

Employers such as the UC Davis Bodega Marine Lab and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography frequently recruit graduates from this major. The combination of rigorous scientific training and practical research experience ensures that students are highly competitive in the global job market for marine and environmental sciences.