Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences

  • BS
  • Major
Two students on a boat collect a sample of ocean water.

The BS in Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences provides an in-depth understanding of aquatic systems, marine organisms, and coastal ecosystems. With Montclair State’s proximity to New Jersey’s estuaries, beaches, and coastal habitats, you’ll gain real-world experience through hands-on fieldwork, lab-based learning, and faculty-led research. The program prepares you to explore how physical and biological processes interact within marine environments, including the impact of climate change and human activity. 

Coursework spans marine ecology, oceanography, and environmental chemistry, with opportunities to engage in coastal restoration, fisheries biology, and water quality monitoring. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in environmental consulting, wildlife biology, conservation, or to pursue graduate study in marine or environmental science. A combined BS/MS option is also available for students seeking an accelerated path to a master’s degree. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available. The program is STEM-designated. 

The curriculum was designed for students who have had high school biology, chemistry, and physics, and three years of college preparatory mathematics. 

See the curriculum.

Accelerated BS/MS in Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences

Students can fast-track their education by applying for a dual degree program in their junior year. The combined degree option allows students to complete their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years. Students begin graduate-level coursework during their senior year and continue through an additional fifth year. This path is ideal for students seeking deeper research experience or preparation for leadership in environmental science careers.

Questions? We're Here to Help.

If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please contact Undergraduate Admissions.

Undergraduate Admissions Office

Whether you’re looking to begin an application, have questions about transferring to Montclair or trying to check your application status, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions is pleased to help you in any way we can.

Department of Biology

The Department of Biology strives to foster a critical-thinking mentality and a desire to discover new knowledge. We impart rigorous scientific reasoning and generally imperative skills in budding life scientists that they can apply in any career.