Environmental and Ocean Sciences - MS

The Department of Environmental and Ocean Sciences offers graduate work leading to the degree of Master of Science in Environmental and Ocean Sciences with two tracks, Marine Science and Environmental Science. This degree is based largely on research and is intended to provide graduate students with an opportunity to design experiments or observations that test hypotheses; to contribute new information to a knowledge base; and to learn to write in a way that facilitates scientific exchange. The program, which combines coursework and research, culminates in a written thesis. The program utilizes not only the excellent facilities at the University of San Diego’s Shiley Center for Science and Technology, but those of some nearby institutions, such as the Southwest Fisheries Science Center (National Marine Fisheries, NOAA), Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, the Leon R. Hubbard Hatchery, and the Tijuana National Estuarine Research Reserve. Thesis committees may be headed by USD Environmental and Ocean Sciences graduate faculty, as well as affiliated graduate faculty members. Committee members are drawn from the Environmental and Ocean Sciences faculty at USD, other science departments at USD and senior research scientists at Southwest Fisheries Science Center, Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute and other institutions.

The Master of Environmental and Ocean Sciences program combines a solid foundation of coursework with independent research, providing students with experience and skills for success in their marine and environmental science careers.

The Master of Science in Environmental and Ocean Sciences gives you the opportunity to:

• Design experiments or observations that test hypotheses
• Contribute new information to a knowledge base
• Learn to write in a way that facilitates scientific exchange

With intensive coursework and personalized mentoring and support, the Master of Science in Environmental and Ocean Sciences degree can serve as a terminal graduate degree prior to entry into the workforce, an enhancement of skills for an existing job in a technical area or in education or a step toward a doctoral degree.