Master of Arts in Marine Science

Jacksonville Universitys Master of Science in Marine Science, and Master of Arts in Marine Science (MS/MA in MSC), and Master of Science in Marine Studies (MS in MST) degree programs are designed to provide its graduates with the specific knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in a variety of marine-related positions in industry, government and education, as well as, for entry into doctoral marine science programs. The MS/MA in MSC programs emphasize a hands-on approach to learning through either the completion of an original thesis project under the mentorship of an experienced marine science researcher, or a non-thesis option that requires extensive laboratory/field study. The MS in MST program offers a fully-distanced option providing flexibility and accessibility to a greater number of students. The graduate program continues the undergraduate emphasis on individualized programs of study that ensure students the best possible preparation based on their interests, background and abilities. Marine Science faculty and researchers currently work in many fields critical to the understanding and sustainableuse of marine resources and systems including aquaculture, benthic ecology, marine and estuarine ecology, coral reef ecology, environmental chemistry, phycology, environmental microbiology, toxicology, marine mammal physiology, invertebrate zoology and ichthyology.The program is designed to be completed in two to three years for full-time graduate students with 30 credit hours required within all 3 degree programs which includes a core four-course sequence. For the MS in MSC degree students must complete a successful thesis project based on original research with a public defense and approved by a thesis committee. For the MA in MSC degree, student must complete either two field/laboratory courses selected in conjunction with their graduate advisor or two field/ laboratory-based courses in accelerated summer sessions. For the MS in MST degree students must complete a 6-credit hour capstone sequence with an original capstone research project in their final year of study. Both the MA in MSC and MS in MST degrees require the passing of a comprehensive written exam to be taken at the completion of all coursework. State-of-the-art research and laboratory facilities at the Marine Science Research Institute will be utilized, with opportunities to conduct research at other facilities also possible.