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 that are critical for numerous plants and animals, but can be compromised by human activities. Students who pursue this major are interested in understanding 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:
- Provide a well-defined, comprehensive knowledge of the disciplines associated with the coastal sciences and marine biology.
- Provide appropriate training for professional employment and knowledge to be prepared for a doctoral program.
- Provide students with research experience that will include project development and implementation, data gathering, analysis and interpretation, and publication of results.
Students completing this program 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 marine biology department offers opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. For those looking for a fast track, there are even combined programs that give you the opportunity to earn both degrees in five years!
Contact
Chairperson, Biology
- Phone
- 973-655-5265
- vanderkleid@montclair.edu
- Location
- Science Hall, 116
Reach out to Dr. Bologna with questions regarding the program, and Dr. Vanderklein with forms that require department chair approvals.
Research
Students in the program engage in both undergraduate and graduate research. Research opportunities abound in marine biology, aquatic ecology, geosciences, and environmental sciences for students in the program. Many student research projects are presented at regional and national meetings and many have been published in research journals.
News, Media & Resources
News
- Clinging Jellyfish Return to the Jersey ShoreDr. Paul Bologna and his research students took John Elliott, CBS Meteorologist, with them during a recent field research outingTuesday June 1, 2021
- Professor Interviewed on 60 Second Science PodcastDr. Colette Feehan provided insight in the episode To Fight Climate Change: Grow a Floating Forest, Then Sink ItFriday April 23, 2021
- In the Pacific, Global Warming Disrupted The Ecological Dance of Urchins, Sea Stars And Kelp. Otters Help Restore Balance.When ocean heat waves and a sea star disease devastated kelp forests that are critical to sea life and the California urchin fishing industry, sea otters came to the rescue.Tuesday March 16, 2021
- Marine Heatwaves Damage Ocean ForestsA new study reveals that intensifying marine heatwaves are driving the loss of kelp forests at their warm range edges on both sides of the North Atlantic.Monday August 10, 2020
Professional Organizations
- American Society of Limnology and Oceanography
- Ecological Society of America
- Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation
- Society of Wetland Scientists
Education and Research Opportunities
Job Resources
- EARTHWORKS – careers for estuarine scientists
- Environmental Career Opportunities
- Science’s Next Wave– career information and resources
- USA Jobs – The Federal Government’s official employment site