Career Opportunities for Majors in Marine Sciences

Marine sciences is the study of the marine environment and its interactions with the earth, the biosphere, and the atmosphere. It is an interdisciplinary science requiring knowledge of the principles of physics, geology and geophysics, mathematics, chemistry, and biology. The study of marine sciences provides students with a broad curriculum in the sciences, which demonstrates how the different disciplines can be brought to bear on understanding marine processes and managing ocean resources wisely.

Students are prepared for graduate work in oceanography or one of the basic disciplines, civil service careers in environmental management, employment in applied environmental and marine science fields, or teaching.

Marine Biology/Biological Oceanography. This option prepares students for professional opportunities or graduate study in oceanography or the biological sciences.

Marine Chemistry. This option prepares students for professional opportunities or graduate study in oceanography or chemistry.

Marine Geology. This option prepares students for graduate study in oceanography, geology, environmental science, or an allied field, as well as for immediate employment.

Physical Oceanography. This option prepares students for graduate study in physical oceanography, meteorology, fluid dynamics, or a related field, as well as immediate employment in environmental agencies or consulting firms and technical positions in marine sciences.

Directed Marine Studies. This option prepares students for professional opportunities in oceanography or the biological sciences. It differs from the other four options in requiring completion of one of six minor or certificate programs to enhance certain skills valued by employers.

While many graduates work in related occupations and may eventually obtain advanced degrees, others choose another direction. Many careers do not require a specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and involvement in college activities.

Additionally, you may:
 

• Explore the career paths of RU Alumni Career Network mentors.
• Go to the Rutgers Online Career Planning Site to explore your interests, skills and values. Use the program for either: High School Students | College Students.
• Explore Rutgers University academic department information related to this major.
• See the Occupational Outlook Handbook for additional career information.
• Pick up your "Career Opportunities" handouts at any New Brunswick Career Services office.