Marine Sciences

Getting Started and Advancing in Major

• Within the many facets of marine science, there is often an overlap of job functions. However, many marine scientists find advantages in becoming more specialized in one of the major subfields (e.g., marine geology, marine chemistry).
• As an undergraduate, seek laboratory experiences such as research projects, volunteering with professors, summer jobs, or internships. Learn laboratory procedures and become familiar with instrumentation.
• Build quantitative skills: statistics, R or Python, GIS.
• Participate in summer research programs. Submit research to local poster competitions or research symposia.
• A bachelor’s degree will qualify one for work as a laboratory assistant, lab coordinator, technician, technologist, or research assistant in education, industry, government, museums, parks, and hatcheries.
• Combine an undergraduate degree with a degree in journalism, law, business, education, computer science, or other disciplines to expand career opportunities. Become familiar with the specific entrance exam for graduate or professional schools in your area of interest.
• A master’s degree allows for greater specialization in marine science, and more opportunities and autonomy in research and administration. Some community colleges will hire master’s level teachers.
• Ph.D. degree is required for university teaching and advanced positions in management and research and development.
• Gain research experience through faculty labs and departmental programs.
• Postdoctoral experience may be required for research positions in industry, universities, and government.
• Doctoral students in the US typically receive tuition waivers and salaries as teaching assistants. Ask how funding is guaranteed before accepting.
• There is also federal and industrial monetary support available for research.
• Secure strong relationships and personal recommendations from professors and/or employers. Recommendation letters are needed for graduate and professional schools. Keep a strong science GPA.
• Learn to work independently and as part of a team.
• Develop exceptional computer skills, learn how to make professional figures (graphs, tables), and use statistical software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential. The ability to market your skills and write proposals is critical to maintaining steady work. Grants may be necessary to start and continue projects.
• Join professional associations and read related journals to network and stay current.  
• Learn federal, state, and local government job application process. Use your career center. The federal government is the largest employer of scientists, but hiring has tightened in recent years; consider applying beyond federal roles to diversify your options.
• Develop physical stamina to work and conduct field research, often in remote areas under various conditions.
• Consider the NOAA Corps for paid sea experience.