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Department of Marine Science

Learning the ocean by living alongside it: where every tide, dive and shoreline becomes part of your education.

A Program Shaped by the Coast

Studying Marine Science at Cal State Monterey Bay means being in the field as much as in the classroom. With the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary at your doorstep, the shoreline, tidepools and deep waters become your learning environment. Every season, every tide and every shift in the weather offers new questions to explore.

Students in the Department of Marine Science apply a wide range of technologies to studying marine ecosystems. Through applied learning and research, students gain the skills necessary to develop a sustainable balance between the unique environmental, recreational, cultural and economic opportunities in the Monterey Bay region. Through lab and field experience, students apply techniques of experimental design, data acquisition, analysis and presentation that provide them with the skills needed to monitor and analyze marine science problems. Students are encouraged to interact with other Monterey Bay institutions, to take advantage of additional local expertise in marine and coastal ecology.

Courses are hands-on from the start, with opportunities to dive, collect, monitor and analyze. Students don't just observe; they participate. Through this work, they gain the scientific training and experience to pursue marine research, resource management, conservation and advanced study.

“The scuba program was probably the biggest opportunity I’ve had here. It really helped me figure out what I enjoy doing.”
— Branden Clarin

Programs

Marine Science, B.S.

Encompassing focal areas ranging from marine ecology and biology to oceanography and geology, our undergraduate program prepare you to embark on a vibrant, active career promoting and preserving the ocean habitats that are vital to virtually every aspect of human life.

Explore the Marine Science B.S.

Marine Science, M.S.

Our thesis-based master’s degree is offered through the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories (MLML) consortium campus. It will provide you with a hands-on, field-oriented learning experience that’s respected worldwide and will place you at the cutting edge of marine science knowledge and research.

Explore the Marine Science M.S.
Sea floor mapping students lab

Department News

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Opportunities That Set Marine Science at Cal State Monterey Bay Apart

Professor and student looking into a tub with marine animals.

Participate in Research in the First Year

Students engage in research opportunities from course-based group projects to independent capstones to grant-funded positions, often working alongside faculty members. From tidepool studies to fisheries work, students contribute meaningful data and build real-world skills from the start.

Two students on a boat with life jackets on looking out at the ocean

Real-World Experience

Our coastal location provides hands-on work in estuaries, kelp forests and open water. Students take part in ongoing field studies, boat-based sampling, underwater surveys and long-term monitoring.

A group of four students and a professor working on a computer

Community and Agency Connections

Our faculty partner with federal and state agencies, aquariums and conservation nonprofits. These relationships provide opportunities for internships, fieldwork, data sharing and career building.

Five people on a small boat at the sea

Ready to Learn More?

Have questions about the programs, courses, or opportunities in marine science? Our department team is here to help with advising, application details, and general inquiries.

Visit the Department of Marine Science

Our department office is located in Building 49, #111.

James Lindholm

Department Chair

Lora Johansen

Administrative Support