2002-2003 UAF Catalog

Degrees and Programs

Marine Biology

School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences
Graduate Program in Marine Sciences and Limnology
(907) 474-7289

Degrees: M.S., Ph.D.

Minimum Requirements for Degrees: M.S.: 30 credits; Ph.D.: 18 thesis credits

The marine biology graduate program focuses on the ecology, physiology and biochemistry/molecular biology of marine organisms. Students may pursue either a M.S. or Ph.D. degree in marine biology.

Graduate students are affordd excellent opportunities for laboratory and field research through the Institute of Marine Science. Laboratory facilities are available at Fairbanks, the Seward Marine Center, the Juneau Center, School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, the Fishery Industrial Technology Center at Kodiak and at the Kasitsna Bay Laboratory. Opportunities for field work are available on the R/V Alpha Helix, which operates along the Alaskan Coast and in the Bering Sea, and on the R/V Little Dipper, which operates in Resurrection Bay.

Students may select courses offered by the graduate program in marine sciences and limnology, the fisheries program, the biology and wildlife department and the chemistry and biochemistry department.

Students considering graduate study in marine biology should have a strong background in biology, molecular biology or biochemistry. Students are admitted on the basis of their ability and the capability of the program to meet their particular interests and needs. Faculty review requests for admission throughout the year. Stipends for financial support are awarded competitively. Limited fellowship support is available. Most students are supported on research projects that relate directly to their degree research.

Graduate Program

Marine Biology -- M.S. Degree

  1. Complete the following admission requirement:
    1. Submit GRE scores.
  2. Complete the general university requirements.
  3. Complete the master's degree requirements.
  4. Complete a thesis.
  5. Complete the following:
    MSL 610 -- Marine Biology (3 credits)
    MSL 615 -- Physiology of Marine Organisms (3 credits)
    MSL 650 -- Biological Oceanography (3 credits)
    MSL 651 -- Biology and Ecology of Marine Invertebrates (5)
         or MSL 611 -- Field Problems in Marine Biology (5) 5
    or an equivalent field course at another institution
    MSL 692 -- Seminar (3 credits)
  6. Minimum credits required (30 credits)

Marine Biology -- Ph.D. Degree

  1. Complete the following admission requirement:
    1. Submit GRE scores.
  2. Complete the general university requirements.
  3. Complete the Ph.D. degree requirements.
  4. Complete coursework at least equivalent to that required for the M.S. degree.
  5. Minimum credits required (18 credits)