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Research and Fieldwork Sites

Agrarian, aquatic and innovative landscapes alike make Cal State Monterey Bay an experience-rich place to learn, discover and grow.

Smart Agriculture
College of Science

Hands-on experiences are part of our natural habitat! When you look at a map of our corner of California, you’ll see it all: ocean, beaches, rivers, peaks, valleys, farmland, forest.  

These regional locations supplement the innovative learning spaces and faculty research labs right here on campus.

CSUMB students also take part in cutting-edge research conducted in partnership with regional and national organizations in a range of industries, from agricultural technology to advanced air mobility. 

Learning on Location: Example Sites and Areas

Beach

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Stretching across 276 miles of shoreline and more than 6,000 square miles of ocean, this sanctuary is home to 36 species of marine animals (otters, of course!), 180 species of birds, 525 species of fish, plus a vast array of plant life.

Sea Floor Mapping Lab

Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute

This innovative marine science research hub is dedicated to understanding our ever-changing ocean. MBARI’s scientists and engineers explore everything from the surface to the seafloor.

Golden grass and trees are in the foreground; cloudy hills are in the background.

Fort Ord National Monument

Full of biodiversity — from wetlands to shrub communities — these protected lands offer students a glimpse at native vegetation and wildlife. There’s also more than 86 miles of trails to explore.

Merrill Farms

Salinas Valley

Referred to as the “Salad Bowl of the U.S.,” our location gives students a first-hand look at food production, farm management and the agricultural challenges facing our region and beyond.

Career Fair

Silicon Valley

Our proximity to the nation’s innovation hub gives students access to internships, networking and employment opportunities with industry giants such as Apple, Amazon, Meta, Electronic Arts and Pixar.