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Marine Biology (Biology, B.S.)

The Marine Biology Concentration Program for undergraduate students within the Department of Biological Sciences at Old Dominion University is more than just a collection of courses. It is an integrated program that not only enhances academic preparation in marine biology, but also provides opportunities for the development of technical skills, research experience, internships, social and outreach activities, and study abroad and study away (off-campus, within the US) programs in marine biology.

Marine Biology (Biology, B.S.)


Description


What is Marine Biology at ODU like?

The Marine Biology Concentration Program for undergraduate students within the Department of Biological Sciences at Old Dominion University is more than just a collection of courses. It is an integrated program that not only enhances academic preparation in marine biology, but also provides opportunities for the development of technical skills, research experience, internships, social and outreach activities, and study abroad and study away (off-campus, within the US) programs in marine biology.

Program Highlights


What makes Marine Biology at ODU unique?

  • Study Abroad Maymester course on "Scientific Diving & Research" in Belize

  • Fall semester "study away" program at a marine laboratory in the Florida Keys

  • Marine biology related undergraduate research and internship opportunities

  • Participation in the Marine Biology Student Association

Careers


What are some careers in this field?

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Biologists

$84,060

MEDIAN SALARY


Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

$66,250

MEDIAN SALARY


Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.

Natural Sciences Managers

$133,670

MEDIAN SALARY


Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.

Environmental Restoration Planners

$76,220

MEDIAN SALARY


Collaborate with field and biology staff to oversee the implementation of restoration projects and to develop new products. Process and synthesize complex scientific data into practical strategies for restoration, monitoring or management.

Courses


What are some courses offered in Marine Biology at ODU?

BIOL 331:
Marine Biology


A survey of the variety, ecology and adaptations of marine organisms. The course is designed to broadly introduce students to life in the oceans and the many special features of marine species that have evolved in the earth's oldest and most extensive ecosystem. Prerequisites: BIOL 291 must be passed with a grade of C |2.0) or higher.

BIOL 415W:
Marine Ecology


A lecture and laboratory course designed to introduce students to important ecological processes operating in coastal marine environments; this is a writing-intensive course. The course covers synthetic topics as well as the ecology of specific marine habitats. The laboratory is designed to provide students with experience in marine research and the organisms and ecological conditions common in various marine habitats visited by the class. A field trip of several days over fall break is required. Prerequisites: BIOL 291 and BIOL 331 and ENGL 211C or ENGL 221C or ENGL 231C must be passed with a grade of C or higher; instructor approval required.

BIOL 408:
Introduction to Pharmacology


This is a general introductory course in pharmacology dealing with chemistry, general properties and pharmacological effects on various physiological systems, therapeutic usefulness and toxicities of drugs. The course is designed to prepare upper-level undergraduate and graduate students for more advanced courses in pharmacology. Prerequisite: course background in cell biology and/or human physiology.

Requirements


What are the requirements to apply for Marine Biology at ODU?

Students entering the Bachelor of Science program in Marine Biology should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Undergraduate Admission)

Cost

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Virginia Resident


Per Credit:

$ 374

Non-Resident


Per Credit:

$ 1,039

Active Duty Military Rate


Per Credit:

$ 250

Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States


Per Credit:

$ 407

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Next Steps


I like this program. What are the next steps?

Contact


Need help applying?

Meet Your Enrollment Team

Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.

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SENIOR LECTURER


Name:

Janet Rinehart-Kim


Location:

302A MILLS GODWIN BUILDING, NORFOLK, VA, 23529



Office:

757-604-2388


Undergraduate Admissions


Location:

1004 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529


Phone Office:

757-683-3685


Fax:

757-683-3255


Email:

admissions@odu.edu


International Admissions


Location:

2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529


Phone Office:

757-683-3701


Fax:

757-683-3651


Email:

intladm@odu.edu

Transfer


I like this program and want to transfer. What are my next steps?

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful transition, engagement, and academic achievement of transfer students. The services and programs offered to you as a Monarch are endless so take advantage of every opportunity. Even before you set foot on campus, we encourage you to Explore, Experience, and Engage! Visit our Transfer Students page for more information.

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