The Best Marine Biology Colleges in the US

Q: 👩🎓 What are the best schools for marine biology in the United States?

The top marine biology colleges include UC San Diego, University of Miami, University of Texas at Austin, Duke University, and Oregon State University, though you should consider multiple factors before applying.

Q: 🤔 What factors should I consider when choosing a marine biology college?

Think about opportunities for field research, faculty expertise, and specialized research.

Marine biology is the subject to study for anyone interested in ocean life, conservation, or environmental science. Marine biologists play a crucial role in concerns about climate change, marine ecosystem preservation, and sustainable fisheries. Here are the best marine biology colleges in the United States and where you should think about studying.

University	Location	Undergraduate Enrollment	Acceptance Rate
University of California, San Diego (UCSD)	San Diego, CA	33,343	34%
University of Miami	Miami, FL	11,334	28%
University of Texas at Austin	Austin, TX	40,916	31%
University of Georgia	Athens, GA	30,166	40%
Oregon State University	Corvallis, OR	26,644	82%
University of Maine	Orono, ME	9,430	92%
Northeastern University	Boston, MA	16,302	18%
University of Washington	Seattle, WA	32,760	53%
Duke University	Durham, NC	6,883	6%
College of Charleston	Charleston, SC	10,488	74%

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University of California, San Diego (UCSD) – California

Location

San Diego, CA

Enrollment

33,343

Acceptance Rate

34%

The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) has one of the top marine biology programs in the country. It offers students access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to conduct oceanic fieldwork.

There are many good marine biology schools in California, but the Scripps Institution of Oceanography is one of the world's top marine science institutions. Here, students can enjoy hands-on marine biology, oceanography, and climate science experiences.

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Biology – Covers marine ecology, conservation biology, and biological oceanography.
Graduate Programs (M.S. & Ph.D.) – Focus on marine ecosystem modeling, fisheries science, and environmental sustainability.

What Makes UCSD’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Scripps Institution of Oceanography – A world-class research facility where students can conduct marine life studies and oceanographic research.

Coastal Research and Fieldwork – Students participate in ocean expeditions, coastal research stations, and environmental monitoring projects.

Internship and Career Opportunities – Strong industry connections with NOAA, California Fish & Wildlife, and global conservation organizations.

Hands-on Learning and Advanced Labs – Access to underwater exploration technology, biological labs, and marine organism studies.

University of Miami – Florida

Location

Miami, FL

Enrollment

11,334

Acceptance Rate

28%

The University of Miami (UM) is one of the most prestigious universities in the country and one of the best schools in Florida for marine biology.

Thanks to its direct access to the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (RSMAS), it's one of the leading research institutions in the US.

Students have unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning and field research.

Miami, Florida, as seen from a plane. — The marine ecosystems around Miami make it a great place to study marine biology. | Photo by Ashley Satanosky

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Biology and Ecology – Covers marine ecology, oceanography, and climate change impacts on ocean life.
M.S. & Ph.D. in Marine Science – Specializations in biological oceanography, fisheries science, and marine biotechnology.

What Makes UM’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (RSMAS) – A world-class research center focused on marine conservation, oceanography, and climate studies.

Coastal and Offshore Field Research – Students gain hands-on experience in coral reef restoration, marine ecosystem studies, and global marine science initiatives.

Internships and Career Pathways – Partnerships with NOAA, the National Marine Fisheries Service, and global conservation organizations.

State-of-the-Art Research Facilities – Advanced marine laboratories, deep-sea exploration technology, and climate research centers.

University of Texas at Austin – Texas

Location

Austin, TX

Enrollment

40,916

Acceptance Rate

31%

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is a public university with a strong marine and aquatic science program, like many other marine biology programs in Texas.

Although the campus is inland, students can gain hands-on research experience at the UT Marine Science Institute (UTMSMI) in Port Aransas, TX, a coastal research facility on the Gulf of Mexico.

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine and Freshwater Science – Focuses on marine ecosystems, fisheries management, and aquatic environmental science.
M.S. & Ph.D. in Marine Science – Advanced research in biological oceanography, marine biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.

What Makes UT Austin’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

UT Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) – A premier research center on the Texas Gulf Coast offering field-based learning and marine conservation projects.

Gulf of Mexico Research Access – Students learn firsthand about coastal ecosystems, estuaries, and oceanic biodiversity.

Internships and Career Development – Collaborations with Texas Parks & Wildlife, NOAA, and marine conservation groups.

Strong Faculty & Research Funding – Opportunities to work on marine climate change studies, ecosystem restoration, and aquatic microbiology.

University of Georgia – Georgia

Location

Athens, GA

Enrollment

30,166

Acceptance Rate

40%

The University of Georgia (UGA) is one of the Southeast's marine sciences schools and one of the best marine biology schools in Georgia.

It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in both marine biology and oceanography.

Another inland university, despite its location in Athens, GA, UGA students can gain experience via the Marine Institute on Sapelo Island and the Skidaway Institute of Oceanography, which offer access to Georgia's estuaries, salt marshes, and coastal ecosystems.

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Sciences – Covers biological oceanography, marine conservation, and ecosystem management.
M.S. & Ph.D. in Marine Sciences – Advanced research in coastal ecology, fisheries science, and environmental sustainability.

What Makes UGA’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

UGA Marine Institute on Sapelo Island – A coastal research center where students conduct marine organism studies and ecosystem monitoring.

Skidaway Institute of Oceanography – A renowned research facility that partners with NOAA and Georgia Sea Grant.

Field-Based Learning & Coastal Research – Students work in estuaries, marshlands, and marine reserves along the Georgia coast.

Internships & Career Pathways – Strong connections with environmental consulting firms, state agencies, and conservation organizations.

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Oregon State University – Oregon

Location

Corvallis, OR

Enrollment

26,644

Acceptance Rate

82%

Oregon State University (OSU) is one of the West Coast's best marine biology schools. Students here are lucky to have access to world-class oceanographic research.

OSU operates out of the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, OR, where students can directly access Pacific Ocean ecosystems, marine reserves, and sustainable fisheries research.

A river in Oregon, USA. — Oregon offers students many different types of marine ecosystems. | Photo by Katie Musial

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Biology – Covers biological oceanography, marine conservation, and aquatic ecosystem studies.
Graduate Programs (M.S. & Ph.D.) in Marine Sciences – Advanced coursework in marine biodiversity, climate change, and ocean sustainability.

What Makes OSU’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Hatfield Marine Science Center – A state-of-the-art research facility where students conduct marine organism studies and oceanographic research.

Pacific Ocean Research Access – Students explore kelp forests, estuaries, and offshore marine reserves.

Strong Environmental and Conservation Focus – OSU is a leader in marine sustainability, fisheries science, and climate change research.

Internships and Career Development – Partnerships with NOAA, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and global conservation organizations.

University of Maine – Maine

Location

Orono, ME

Enrollment

9,430

Acceptance Rate

92%

The University of Maine (UMaine) is one of the top marine biology schools in the northeast. Students have direct access to the Gulf of Maine, a biologically rich marine ecosystem.

UMaine's School of Marine Sciences leads in fisheries science, marine conservation, and oceanographic research.

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Sciences – Focuses on marine ecology, biological oceanography, and environmental sustainability.
M.S. & Ph.D. in Marine Biology and Oceanography – Advanced research in fisheries management, marine conservation, and climate change effects on ocean life.

What Makes UMaine’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Proximity to the Gulf of Maine – Students conduct real-world marine research in one of North America's most diverse ocean ecosystems.

Darling Marine Center and Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences – Two world-class research centers providing hands-on fieldwork experiences.

Fisheries & Ocean Conservation Focus – UMaine is a leader in sustainable fisheries, marine aquaculture, and coastal resource management.

Internship and Career Development – Strong industry partnerships with NOAA, Maine Department of Marine Resources, and global marine research institutes.

Northeastern University – Massachusetts

Location

Boston, MA

Enrollment

16,302

Acceptance Rate

18%

Northeastern University is a leader in marine biology research and experimental learning. The Marine Science Center in Nahanta, MA, offers cutting-edge ocean science programs. Students receive hands-on training in coastal ecology, climate change impact studies, and marine conservation.

Northeastern's Three Seas Program also allows students to study marine ecosystems in the Gulf of Maine, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Northwest. It's one of the most immersive marine biology experiences globally.

A body of water near Boston, MA. — Students in Boston have opportunities to study local marine ecosystems or other major bodies of water around the country. | Photo by jacob Licht

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Biology – Specializes in biological oceanography, marine conservation, and environmental policy.
Three Seas Program – A field-based program where students study in three distinct marine environments (Maine, Panama, and Washington State).

What Makes Northeastern’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Marine Science Center in Nahant, MA – A premier research facility focused on marine ecosystem resilience and coastal sustainability.

Three Seas Program – One of the only marine biology programs that allow students to conduct field research across multiple global locations.

Strong Focus on Climate Change and Conservation – Courses cover marine biodiversity loss, ecological restoration, and sustainable fisheries.

Internship and Research Opportunities – Partnerships with NOAA, the New England Aquarium, and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

University of Washington – Washington

Location

Seattle, WA

Enrollment

32,760

Acceptance Rate

53%

The University of Washington is one of the best marine biology, oceanography, and fisheries science

schools.

Thanks to the School of Aquatic and Fisheries Sciences (SAFS) and Friday Harbor Laboratories, students have direct access to Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean.

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Biology – Covers biological oceanography, marine ecology, and fisheries conservation.
Graduate Programs (M.S. & Ph.D.) in Oceanography & Fisheries Science – Research areas include sustainable fisheries, climate resilience, and marine biodiversity.

What Makes UW’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Friday Harbor Laboratories – A renowned marine research facility on San Juan Island offering immersive field-based courses and research programs.

Puget Sound & Pacific Ocean Access – Students conduct coastal and deep-sea research on marine ecosystems, pollution, and ocean sustainability.

Strong Fisheries and Conservation Focus – UW is a leader in sustainable fisheries management, marine policy, and climate adaptation strategies.

Internship and Research Opportunities – Collaborations with NOAA, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and global marine science organizations.

Duke University – North Carolina

Location

Durham, NC

Enrollment

6,883

Acceptance Rate

Duke University offers students an interdisciplinary approach to marine conservation, ocean policy, and marine ecosystem studies.

Thanks to the Nicholas School of the Environment and the Marine Lab in Beaufort, NC, students can enjoy hands-on coastal research, fieldwork experiences, and global marine studies.

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Biology (Marine Biology Concentration) – Focuses on marine ecology, fisheries science, and ocean sustainability.
Master of Environmental Management (MEM) & Ph.D. in Marine Science & Conservation – Advanced research in marine policy, conservation genetics, and ecosystem resilience.

What Makes Duke’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Duke Marine Lab in Beaufort, NC – A premier research facility dedicated to oceanic fieldwork, marine organism studies, and climate impact research.

Marine Conservation and Policy Focus – Duke is a leader in marine sustainability, ocean law, and international marine governance.

Global Field Study Opportunities – Students can participate in marine research expeditions in the Caribbean, the Galápagos, and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Internship and Research Partnerships – Collaborations with NOAA, Conservation International, and the World Wildlife Fund.

College of Charleston – South Carolina

Location

Charleston, SC

Enrollment

10,488

Acceptance Rate

74%

The College of Charleston (CofC) is another excellent school in the southeast. The Grice Marine Laboratory has advanced marine science research tools and conducts field studies through its direct access to Charleston Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.

A bridge in South Carolina. — You could study marine biology in South Carolina and have access to several field-work opportunities. | Photo by David Martin

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

B.S. in Marine Biology – Covers coastal ecosystem studies, fisheries science, and marine conservation.
M.S. in Marine Biology – Focuses on biological oceanography, marine genetics, and ecological sustainability.

What Makes CofC’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Grice Marine Laboratory – A state-of-the-art research center that allows students to conduct marine organism studies, ecosystem monitoring, and ocean sustainability research.

Charleston’s Coastal Access – Students study estuaries, barrier islands, and marine reserves along the South Carolina coast.

Internships and Research Opportunities – Strong partnerships with NOAA, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and marine conservation groups.

Experiential Learning and Fieldwork – Students gain practical experience in marine research, ocean conservation, and fisheries management.

Whether you need to boost your GPA, study biology, or need help once you're in a marine biology program, Superprof can help! There are thousands of biology and marine biology tutors available across the US and around the world who can help you.

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Frequently asked questions

👩‍🎓 What are the best schools for marine biology in the United States?

The top marine biology colleges include UC San Diego, University of Miami, University of Texas at Austin, Duke University, and Oregon State University, though you should consider multiple factors before applying.

🤔 What factors should I consider when choosing a marine biology college?

Think about opportunities for field research, faculty expertise, and specialized research.

Chapters

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) – California
University of Miami – Florida
University of Texas at Austin – Texas
University of Georgia – Georgia
Oregon State University – Oregon
University of Maine – Maine
Northeastern University – Massachusetts
University of Washington – Washington
Duke University – North Carolina
College of Charleston – South Carolina

Discover the Best Colleges for Marine Biology in the US

University of California, San Diego (UCSD) – California

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes UCSD’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

University of Miami – Florida

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes UM’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

University of Texas at Austin – Texas

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes UT Austin’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

University of Georgia – Georgia

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes UGA’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Oregon State University – Oregon

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes OSU’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

University of Maine – Maine

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes UMaine’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Northeastern University – Massachusetts

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes Northeastern’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

University of Washington – Washington

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes UW’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

Duke University – North Carolina

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes Duke’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

College of Charleston – South Carolina

Degree Programs & Focus Areas

What Makes CofC’s Marine Biology Program Stand Out?

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Frequently asked questions

👩‍🎓 What are the best schools for marine biology in the United States?

🤔 What factors should I consider when choosing a marine biology college?