Marine Biology

Master's Degree Program

Earn a marine biology master’s degree in one of the most ecologically diverse places in the world. The graduate program in marine biology at the University of Alaska Fairbanks will provide you with strong foundational knowledge of the biology, ecology, physiology and biodiversity of marine organisms to prepare you for a fast-paced and rewarding career studying the oceans and the life that fills them.

Courses in UAF’s marine biology master’s program are carefully designed by leading experts in their respective fields to balance theory and hands-on experience so you can work out in the world as you learn. As one of the top marine biology master’s programs in the country, UAF graduates are in high demand both in Alaska and throughout the world for their experience, expertise and dedication to the study of marine life.

When you earn you MS in marine biology from UAF, you’ll join an active community of students, faculty and alumni who are as committed to studying and preserving the Earth’s oceans as you are!

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Why Earn Your Marine Biology Master’s Degree at UAF?

From the biodiversity of Alaska to the passion of our faculty, UAF’s marine biology master’s program stands above every other marine biology program in the nation. Graduating from our graduate program in marine biology will unlock more doors to more career opportunities than any other program.

Research and field-based learning

  • As a member of UAF’s marine biology master’s program, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to hands-on research through facilities available in Fairbanks, the Kasitsna Bay Laboratory, the Seward Marine Center, the Juneau Center, the Kodiak Seafood and Marine Science Center, and even through ship-based research. Make friends and professional connections as you gain experience and build an impressive resume in our graduate program in marine biology.

World-class faculty

  • When you earn a marine biology master’s degree at UAF, you’ll get to work alongside faculty mentors who are leading researchers and scholars in their fields. Faculty bring their years of experience into their marine biology courses to help you connect theory and the real-world.

Strong financial support

  • You’ve chosen to invest your time and energy into your future by earning an MA in marine biology at UAF. We match this investment with generous scholarships and grants that will help you on your journey to earn a marine biology master’s degree and start making an impact on the environment.

A thriving community

  • When you join our graduate program in marine biology, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet and connect with other students throughout the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. In addition to the collaborative nature of our marine biology courses, we also offer the student-run Fisheries and Ocean Sciences Student Association, where you can find a mentor or become a mentor for another student.

 

What Can You Do with a Marine Biology Master’s Degree?

Marine biologists study marine organisms, their behaviors and how they interact with the environment around them. Professionals with an MS in marine biology work in many diverse settings, including laboratories, ships and in the field. They travel the globe in search of answers to some of the most important scientific questions being asked today.

Marine biology itself is a broad area of study, which includes hundreds of specializations — including particular species, group, behavior, research technique and ecosystem. From climate change to the migration patterns of a single school of fish, marine biologists have a huge variety of topics and specialties to choose from.

As one of the most renowned graduate programs in marine biology, our graduates go on to work in prestigious organizations and companies throughout the world, including universities, state and federal agencies, NGOs, tribal groups and private corporations.

Careers for professionals with a marine biology master’s degree include:

  • Researcher
  • Educator
  • Environmental consultant
  • Natural resource manager
  • Fisheries biologist
  • Environmental lobbyist
  • Naturalist
  • Marine illustrator
  • Aquarium employee
  • Biotechnology specialist

 

 

Get Started on Your Marine Biology Master’s Degree

Take the next step toward earning your MS in marine biology. We offer all the resources to help you get started.