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:
- 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 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 marine biology department offers opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. For those looking for a fast track, we offer 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
- Hoboken cleanup spells the end of abandoned boatsDr. Paul Bologna, Professor, Biology, speaks with Ted Goldberg from NJ Spotlight News regarding boat debrisMonday May 16, 2022
- The Portuguese Man-of-war Is Not a Jellyfish and Packs a Nasty StingDr. Paul Bologna, Professor, speaks with HowStuffWorks about this fascinating creatureThursday May 12, 2022
- Beached, docked & dumpedNJ.com spoke with Dr. Paul Bologna, Biology, regarding the State’s abandoned boat problemMonday March 21, 2022
- Student Wins Second in Poster ContestMelissa Mazzaro, who is pursuing a Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences BS/MS, won the award at the 23rd Annual Meeting of the Northeast Aquatic Plant Management SocietyFriday January 14, 2022
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