Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences

Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences represents the wide variety of ecosystems that are linked through water. Study in this field encompasses freshwater lakes and streams, estuaries and coastal marine habitats. These are critical environments for numerous plants and animals, but can be compromised by human activities. Students pursuing this major want to understand the relationships among plants, animals and humans while learning how to protect and restore these necessary ecosystems.

Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences Programs

The interdisciplinary Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences programs utilize the four core sciences: Biology, Geology, Chemistry and Physics.

The program objectives are three-fold:

1. Provide a well-defined, comprehensive knowledge of the disciplines associated with the coastal sciences and marine biology.
2. Provide appropriate training for professional employment and knowledge to be prepared for a doctoral program.
3. Provide students with research experiences applying project development and implementation, data gathering, analysis and interpretation and publication of results.

The Biology department offers opportunities in marine biology for both undergraduate and graduate students. Those looking for a fast track can also explore the combined program, providing the opportunity to earn both degrees in five years!

Graduates will be well prepared to enter the work force in Research, Environmental Consulting, Education, Regulatory Agencies (e.g. EPA) and Non-Profit Organizations.

Contact

Colette Feehan

Associate Professor, Biology

Phone

973-655-4248

Email

feehanc@montclair.edu

Reach out to Dr. Feehan with questions regarding the program, and Dr. Vanderklein with forms that require department chair approvals.

News

• 
  Jellyfish sightings are up at Jersey Shore this year: expertsDr. Paul Bologna spoke the ABC6 Action News about the increase in jellyfish at the jersey shore this seasonMonday July 28, 2025
• 
  Heat, storms spur harmful algal blooms in NJ lakes and reservoirsDr. Meiyin Wu spoke with NJ Spotlight News about the recent Cyanobacteria spike that led the state Park Service to ‘retire’ swimming at Spruce Run Recreation AreaMonday July 28, 2025
• 
  Mitigating stinging jellyfish at the Jersey ShoreNBC New York spoke with experts including Dr. Paul Bologna, Professor, Biology, regarding stinging jellyfish mitigation at the Jersey ShoreFriday May 23, 2025
• 
  The 6 stinging jellyfish you'll want to avoid at the Jersey ShoreDr. Paul Bologna, Professor, Biology, spoke with Asbury Park Press about the various jellies in our areaThursday July 18, 2024

Resources