With the help of the best marine biology colleges in Florida, you can focus on a unique specialty to have a rewarding career. The importance of marine biology cannot be understated, as these professionals analyze ocean ecosystems and organisms that keep our planet and its underwater inhabitants thriving. Whether you want to focus on marine mammal ecology or ocean ecosystems, it’s a diverse area of study.
To get your hands on the best marine biology programs in Florida, we’ve curated a list of top-ranked schools. Each of these schools meets the following criteria:
- An average cost of no more than $35,000
- A median starting salary no lower than $40,000 after graduation
- Accredited programs by recognized bodies
5 Best Marine Biology Colleges in Florida
1. Florida International University
4 Year; Miami, FL
Average Annual Cost: $7,296
Florida International University has a unique Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology program. You’ll acquire a strong foundation in evolutionary biology and developmental physiology during your studies. You will also explore the concepts of organismal diversity, ecology, and physical oceanography.
This school’s programs feature a perfect blend of in-class and field experience. You’ll be able to use state-of-the-art facilities while also using real-world experiences to diversify your employable skills. With the ability to take advantage of the diverse ecological systems in Florida, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Graduates from Florida International University find several great career options to consider with their degrees. Some of the most common areas of work you can apply for include:
- Marine Engineer
- Research Scientist
- Educator
- Zoo Employee
- Marine Veterinarian
- Marine Policy Expert
- Nature Photographer
With enrollment in the marine biology program at Florida International University, you’ll have a unique curriculum to use to your advantage. Some of the most common courses you can expect to take include:
- Organic Chemistry
- General Biology
- Marine Chemistry
- Marine Molecular Biology
- Field Marine Biology Experience
- Marine Ecology and Conservation Biology
- Biology and Physiology of Marine Organisms
2. Nova Southeastern University
4 Year; Fort Lauderdale, FL
Average Annual Cost: $23,905
Students at Nova Southeastern University looking for a marine biology degree will be a part of the Halmos College of Arts and Science. Their unique courses allow students to study ocean chemistry, physics, and animals. After you graduate, you’ll have a B.S. in Marine Biology to use for your future career.
Students will access plenty of fabulous resources during their studies, including the Guy Harvey Oceanographic Research Center. In fact, the marine biology department has an entire dedicated campus called the Oceanographic Campus. You’ll be able to experience extraordinary things, such as seeing marine life from the comfort of your classroom.
One of the most significant advantages of Nova Southeastern University’s marine biology program is its location. Students will be able to get real-world experience working in diverse ecosystems. You’ll also get field experience with freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments.
Another considerable advantage of this program is the quality of the faculty members paired with the labs.
Students will have smaller class sizes, helping them get better one-on-one education while diving deep into their coursework. Some of the most common focus areas you’ll experience include medicine, environmental restoration, zoology, and green technologies.
3. The University of Tampa
4 Year; Tampa, FL
Average Annual Cost: $30,990
The marine biology program at The University of Tampa is one of their most popular degree options. Students will explore specific marine-related issues paired with exploratory biological science to get hands-on experience in their specialty. You can guarantee plenty of your coursework will involve field trips to the Florida Keys as well as international venues.
If you’re looking for a marine biology program that puts a strong focus on research and development, The University of Tampa is ideal. According to the school, more than half of their faculty are currently working on marine organism research. With the help of your professors, you can get hands-on, real-world experience to make a difference in your community.
With the collection of prominent degrees from the school, students will access fantastic resources. For example, you can visit the Marine Science Field Station, including a dry and wet lab. Also, there’s direct access to Tampa Bay, kayaks, canoes, and other equipment for oceanographic research.
As with any marine biology program, you’ll be expected to take a collection of courses before receiving your degree. Some of the most common classes include:
- Vertebrate Zoology
- Marine Invertebrate Zoology
- Marine Ecology
- Organismal Botany
- Origins & Evolution of the Marine Environment
- Chemical Oceanography
- Physical Oceanography
- General Physics
4. Florida Institute of Technology
4 Year; Melbourne, FL
Average Annual Cost: $31,097
Florida Institute of Technology is an excellent option for students looking to get a B.S. in Marine Biology. During your studies, you’ll explore deep-sea organisms, explore interrelationships with marine animals, and even try your hands at veterinary science. Undoubtedly, the vast curriculum from this program can help you prepare yourself for your future career.
All of the courses available from this school are designed to help you better prepare to explore the vast nature of the oceans. Students will explore concepts of global warming, aquaculture, chemistry, zoology, and oceanography. With your four-year program, you’ll find you’ll get a perfect combination of in-class and field experiences guided by renowned faculty members.
One of the most considerable advantages of this program is that it’s one of the most hands-on options for students. In fact, the Florida Institute of Technology has developed its marine biology specialty around hands-on, small classes. You’ll have far more faculty-student interaction, helping to make learning more exciting.
5. Eckerd College
4 Year; Saint Petersburg, FL
Average Annual Cost: $34,860
Another fantastic option for a hands-on marine biology degree is Eckerd College. Their curriculum is designed around giving students real-world experience to help them with their careers. You’ll experience hands-on research in fabulous ocean settings right off the coast of Florida.
There are four primary areas of specialization that students can focus on during their enrollment, including:
- Marine Chemistry
- Marine Geophysics
- Marine Geology
- Marine Biology
You can ensure your education revolves around your future career with these disciplines. Every student will have a combination of core and elective courses, giving you plenty of opportunities for building new skills. Also, the outstanding research facilities set this program apart from the rest.
As a school that focuses solely on undergraduate education, you’ll find their areas of interest are larger than other schools. Some of the most popular opportunities graduates consider with their degrees include:
- Seismology
- Marine Botany
- Marine Mammals
- Biogeochemistry
- Coral Reefs
- Genetics
- Paleoclimatology
- Restoration Ecology
