Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences

Join us and get wet as we explore the other 70% of the planet!

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.

The interdisciplinary Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences programs emphasize 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.

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

Programs of Study

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!

Learn About the Marine Biology Programs

Contact

Colette Feehan

Associate Professor, Biology

Phone

973-655-4248

Email

feehanc@montclair.edu

Location

Science Hall, 132

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

News, Media & Resources

News

• 
  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
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  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
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  Larger numbers of invasive clinging jellyfish turn up in Jersey Shore back baysSmall in size but with a painful sting so potent it could require a trip to the hospital, these jellyfish have turned up mostly in back bays from Monmouth County all the way to Cape MayTuesday July 2, 2024
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  Clinging Jellyfish Make their Return to the Jersey ShoreDr. Paul Bologna, Professor of Biology, has spoken with multiple news sources to inform and prepare people of the species' return to NJ shoresMonday June 5, 2023