Marine Environmental Science

The Bachelor of Science in Marine Environmental Science (MES) program is an interdisciplinary exploration of the marine environment. On our stunning waterfront campus, bordered by the East River and Long Island Sound, you will study pressing environmental challenges like climate change, water pollution, and marine conservation, while also exploring potential solutions through a blend of rigorous coursework, hands-on research opportunities, and field experiences.

Marine Environmental Science students are prepared for a broad range of career paths from K-12 and informal science education to environmental consulting at state agencies and NGO’s. This degree also prepares students for advanced degrees.

Your academic knowledge is enhanced by professional learning experiences. All students must complete two summer internships or pursue a U.S. Coast Guard third mate’s license by sailing the college training ship, the Empire State, and joining the regiment of cadets. The regiment is a disciplined lifestyle program that holds no affiliation with the military.

Academic Program

The curriculum consists of general education courses, foundational and advanced classes, and practical learning in subjects such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology, physics, meteorology, and oceanography. Students will enhance their studies by selecting core courses in marine biology, oceanography, and meteorology. Additionally, you will gain hands-on experience in our modern analytical lab, new waterfront wet lab, and onboard the 41’ Sea Lab Vessel T/V.

Our students enjoy the advantages of small class sizes, which facilitate personalized attention and enhanced interaction. These classes are taught by dedicated full-time faculty members who are committed to fostering an engaging learning environment and providing tailored support to each student.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of Bachelor of Science program in Marine Environmental Science, graduates will be able to: 1. Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental concepts and/or laboratory skills throughout the entire MES curriculum.

2. Apply meteorological, oceanographic, and biological concepts in the understanding of environmental issues.

3. Communicate contemporary environmental concepts and issues.

4. Apply and execute the scientific method

MES majors may further tailor their academic program in one of two ways:

Professional Internship Program. As an intern student, you will have a more traditional college experience and get to complete two professional internships related to your academic studies. MES students have completed internships at:

Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research & Preservation
Queens Zoo
Bronx River Alliance
Long Island Aquarium
Save the Sound
Town of Islip Shellfish Hatchery
Billion Oyster Project
Various Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) Programs

U.S. Coast Guard Deck License Program: You will take additional courses required to earn a U.S. Coast Guard license. A deck license qualifies you to work on-board commercial vessels, navigating, handling cargo, maintaining the ship and ensuring operational safety. Earning a license requires you to belong to the college regiment of cadets, a disciplined lifestyle program that is not affiliated with the military. Regimental students may also choose to complete internships through the cadet-shipping program.

Life After maritime

One of the core strengths of the Marine Environmental Science program is its versatility and the blend of math and science disciplines. Students can pursue professional opportunities in a variety of fields and go on to work for any number of environmental companies and organizations. Recent graduates have found jobs with organizations like Save the Sound and the Wildlife Conservation Society.

The Marine Environmental Science program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for advanced degrees in marine biology, oceanography, and environmental science. Recent graduates have gone on to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees at the following institutions: