Marine Science Research Institute

Master of Science in Marine Science

91Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ students performing testing on a shark on the OCEARCH ship.

Why Choose Our Program?

J​acksonville University's Master of Science in Marine Science (MS in MSC) degree program is designed to provide graduates with the specific knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in a variety of marine-related positions in industry, government and education, or for entry into doctoral marine science programs. Our program has:

  • State-of-the-art vessels, aquaculture facilities, laboratories and research facilities
  • Experiential learning with The St. Johns RiverKeeper, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conversation Commission (FWC)
  • Grants, internships, and research opportunities
  • Experienced faculty in areas such as physical, shark and marine mammal biology, intertidal and subtidal ecology, and more
  • Allows for further graduate study or for marine science careers in academia, government, and other employment sectors
  • Prepares you for research-focused marine science careers at an advanced level.

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Two graduate students in the St. John's River inspecting a water sample.

About Our Program

Students are encouraged to complete their degree requirements within three years. The program is designed to be completed in two years for full-time graduate students but may be completed in a part-time manner if done within 7 years of starting first graduate course. Students must take a core 4-course sequence and complete a proposal for their thesis research topic, or design a laboratory experience in conjunction with a graduate advisor. Thesis research is conducted through the next year, culminating in oral and written presentation of​ a thesis. 

Students will complete a written thesis project with an oral defense as well as required coursework.

Only six (6) semester hours of marine science-related graduate work can be transferred from another regionally accredited institution and applied to the MS in Marine Science at JU. Transfer credits can only be applied to elective courses.

Hybrid Option

We are now offering students in the MS in MSC program the option to take up to 6 credit hours of elective coursework online. 

How to Apply

  • Completed JU Application
  • Unofficial Transcripts for All Degrees Conferred
    • An undergraduate degree in Marine Science is not necessary for admission.
  • Updated Resume
  • Statement of Intent
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Pre-requisite course requirements:
    • Chemistry
    • Physics
    • Statistics
    • Intro to Marine Biology, or Biology I & II, or an Enviromental Science course*

*All Environmental Science courses must be approved by the Graduate Search Committee to ensure rigor before acceptance into the program.

Learn by DoingSea Turtle Program

91Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµâ€™s graduate marine science programs offer experiential learning through partnerships with organizations like the St. Johns Riverkeeper and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Students have the opportunity to receive grants, internships, and research opportunities, guided by expert faculty in areas such as marine biology, marine mammals, sea turtles, and ecology.

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Contact Information Graduate and Professional Studies

Phone: (904) 256-7000
Email: graduateadmissions@ju.edu

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