Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences (MS) – STEM Designated Degree Program
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 that are critical for numerous plants and animals, but can be compromised by human activities. Students who pursue this major are interested in understanding 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.
Along with the Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences (MS) degree, the department also offers a combined BS/MS in Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences.
Please refer to our programs of study page for a comprehensive list of all of the graduate programs offered within the university.
Prior to matriculation for the Master of Science degree in Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences, the student should have completed a subject matter of at least twenty-four semester hours in biology and have adequate preparation in college chemistry, mathematics and physics.
The Office of Graduate Admissions requires the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree in order to be eligible to apply for a graduate program. Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants to review the U.S. degree equivalency information.
In order to make applying for graduate school as seamless as possible for you, we have
created an application checklist. This checklist can be a reference point for you during the
application process to ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the steps
needed to apply, as well as all of corresponding supplemental materials for your specific
program of interest.
- Application Deadline: Rolling Admission.
- Submit Online Application: Please create your online account and submit your application by following the general application instructions and pay (or waive) the non-refundable $60 application fee. Once this step has been completed, the online portal will allow you to upload your supplemental materials.
The following is a list of the supplemental materials that will accompany your application for the Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences (MS) program:
- Transcript: One from each college attended.
- Essays/Personal Statement: Please write an integrated essay providing a response to each of the following questions.
- What are your goals for graduate study and your future career?
- In what ways do your academic background and your professional experiences provide evidence of your potential for success in the program you selected and in your eventual career?
- Please give specific examples of relevant coursework and/or experience.
- Is there any further information we should consider in assessing your candidacy?
- Letters of Recommendation: Two.
- Standardized Test Scores: GRE is optional.
- Applicants with non-U.S. degrees, please visit the International Applicants page to review the US degree equivalency information.
If you have any general questions regarding the application process and requirements, please email or call us:
Office of Graduate Admissions
Email: graduate@montclair.edu
Telephone: 973-655-5147
Fax: 973-655-7869
If you have specific inquiries regarding your program of interest, please contact the Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences (MS) Program Coordinator:
Program Coordinator: Dr. Colette Feehan
Location: Science Hall 132
Telephone: 973-655-4248
Email: feehanc@montclair.edu
Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences (MS)
Marine Biology and Coastal Sciences (Combined BS/MS) (MS)
