How Easy is Getting Into Marine Biology

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The opportunity to work with aquatic life and help preserve our oceans as a marine biologist is the childhood dream of many people. The term marine biologist is very loose and encompasses many jobs. Technically, a marine biologist is anyone that studies, observes, protects, or manages marine organisms. These can include microbes, plants, or animals. As a marine biologist, you may be doing studies on microorganisms that live in lakes, investigating the habits of fish populations, or evaluating the DNA of various sea animals, among other tasks.^[1] By getting the right mix of education and experience, becoming a marine biologist is an attainable dream for many.

1. 1

   Conduct research on all aspects of marine biology. Do independent research on different aspects of marine biology so that you can pinpoint what you like to do in the field. There are many different things that marine biologists can do. Some concentrate on spending their time with aquatic life while others focus on research. Read scientific papers so that you get an idea for the type of work that you will have to do.

   • Marine biologists study and observe marine organisms of all sizes. Research microbes, plants and animals in the ocean to get a deeper understanding of marine biology.^[2]
   • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and The Marine Life Information Network are two excellent resources for more information on marine biology.^[3]

2. 2

   Complete a bachelor's degree in biology or other related major. While a bachelor's degree in marine biology is not a requirement, taking relevant courses during your undergraduate degree will give you the background you need and will give you clarity on whether this career is for you. Some universities offer marine biology specific majors. If your university does not, you can major in general biology or zoology.

   • Other courses that you should take include chemistry, physics, mathematics, ichthyology, conservation, and oceanography.
   • Statistical analysis is also necessary so that a biologist can extrapolate information gained by tests to accurately study and predict growth and decline numbers in marine populations.^[4]

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3. 3

   Peruse a master's degree in marine biology or marine science. A master's degree in marine biology or marine science can help open up job opportunities. Having your master's degree and is a requirement for many jobs in the field. Apply to master's degree programs at several universities that specialize in marine biology or science.

   • Some classes you would take to complete your master's degree in marine biology could include cellular and molecular biology, ecology, and oceanography.^[5]
   • Some of the best universities for marine biology include Duke University, The University of California-Los Angeles, Brown University, and the University of Southern California.

4. 4

   Attain a higher degree in marine biology. Getting your Ph.D. in marine biology will give you the credentials to add to the accepted scholarly research of marine biology. When you get your Ph.D., you will have to an original thesis and dissertation to achieve your doctorate.^[6] If you are going into marine biology and are concentrated on writing reports or doing studies, it is a good idea to get your Ph.D.

   • A Ph.D. is not mandatory to become a marine biologist.
   • There will be more job opportunities for those with a Ph.D.

5. 5

   Learn how to use GIS software. GIS stands for geographic information system. GIS is a powerful tool for marine biologists because it allows them to map out marine habitats visually, which aids them in monitoring and predicting trends in marine habitats and populations.^[7] GIS is a critical tool in conservation, preservation, and restoration of aquatic habitats.^[8]

   • Many colleges and universities offer GIS classes.^[9]

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1. 1

   Show your interest early on. The earlier you get experience in marine biology, the greater your chance of landing a solid job once you have the education. Explore the natural world and spend time in the ocean or a large body of water near you.^[10] You may be able to meet people who are involved in studying or working with aquatic life or habitats. Take the opportunity to talk to professionals who work in the water. You can also research marine related clubs or camps, aquariums, or marine preserves and visit them when you're younger.

   • For example, Ecology Project International has programs aimed at people as young as high school.^[11]

2. 2

   Gain some practical marine skills. Skills like boat handling, scuba diving, and first aid are important things to know how to do if you plan on working directly with aquatic environments or marine life. It is important to have these skills if you need to solve a critical problem while at sea.^[12]

   • While some marine biology courses provide boat handling, rigging, and scuba diving into their curriculum, others do not so you should pursue it separately from your degree.^[13]

3. 3

   Volunteer for a marine biology-based organization. While you are getting your undergraduate degree, you should take advantage of volunteer opportunities. Search online for volunteer openings near you. Working with a professional will give you insight into how it will be to work in the field.

   • Organizations that offer volunteer opportunities in marine biology include, the Mamirauá Institute for Sustainable Development, The Manatee Observation and Education Center, the Earthwatch Institute, and Go! Volunteer Abroad.^[14]
   • Look for local marine organizations that may need help in your town first.

4. 4

   Get a mentor. Try to find someone who is an expert in the type of marine biology that you want to pursue and ask them to be your mentor. Look online for the research groups or institutions that you want to work for. Visit their facilities and ask if you could intern or provide help for free.

   • If you show your passion and interest for marine biology your mentor will be more likely to invest time teaching you.

5. 5

   Get an internship in marine biology. During or shortly after college you should take on an internship if you are serious about becoming a marine biologist. Internships will give you the skills and experience that you need to prepare you for the job. Search online for internships at popular schools and submit an application to become an intern.

   • Some internships are paid and can help supplement your financial needs.
   • Schools that offer internships in marine biology include Boston University/Marine Biological Laboratory, Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Southampton College, and the Marine Science Center at Northeastern University.^[15]
   • Research centers that may need interns include, Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport Oregon, Blakely Island Field Station in Washington, and the Hopkins Marine Station in California.^[16]

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1. 1

   Join marine biology organizations. Meeting others that are excited about the field of marine biology will acclimate you to those that you'd be likely to work with. Also, it will help you build a network of contacts that could tell you about job openings. Then, find workshops or conventions in your area by talking to universities that offer marine biology as a major. You can also find research facilities in your area and inquire about upcoming workshops there.

   • Some of the biggest international marine biology organizations include, the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO), the International Collective in Support of Fishworkers, and the International Whaling Commission
   • Some of the most popular marine biology organizations that have chapters across the U.S. include, the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS), the National Association of Marine Laboratories (NAML), and The Oceanography Society.^[17]

2. 2

   Look for jobs in your specialization. Search for jobs based on the experience you've already gained in marine biology. Because the term is so loosely defined, finding a job in "marine biology" may be difficult. Instead, specify your experience and look for jobs that you've done before. Consider any internships or hands-on experience you've had. There are a number of different jobs that are available to marine biologists in a number of different environments.

   • Jobs include titles like biological technician, ichthyologist, fishery biologist, marine mammalogist, microbiologist, systems analyst, mathematician, physicist, hydrologist, or physical oceanographer.^[18]
   • Many marine biology jobs may require you to relocate. Keep this in mind while you're on your job search and expand your filters to accommodate the lack of positions readily available.
   • Some of the most popular places for marine biology include, Hawaii, California, Washington, Florida, and Maryland.^[19]

3. 3

   Talk to former professors or employers about any job openings. If you've gone for your graduate or doctorate, then there's a good chance you've worked with people that are actively involved in the marine biology industry. Talk to former mentors and ask them if any job openings are currently available. While they may not always be able to land you a job, it is possible that they can connect you to the right people.

   • You can write an email or give them a call on the phone.
   • Say something like, "Hey Professor Xavier, I've just completed my master's degree in marine conservation and was wondering if The Association for Dolphin Preservation was looking for someone to work with the marine life."

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Add New Question

• Question

  What percentage of the job is fun?

  

  It's almost impossible to quantify fun as a percentage. Different people find different activities fun. If you really enjoy your work, it could conceivably be as much as 100% fun for you. That said, as with any scientific endeavor, there will probably be a fair amount of busywork that will count against the fun factor.

• Question

  How can I prepare for this career as a 12-year-old?

  

  If you are young and aspire to become a marine biologist, you can start doing it right now. Ask your biology teacher about this field, go to the library or on the internet and gather knowledge. Find out in which field you are interested. If you are interested in saving whales, buy a notebook and start noting every thing about whales, such as their morphology, anatomy, lifestyle etc.

• Question

  What is the study of whales called?

  

  The study of whales is called Cetology.

• Question

  How much does a marine biologist get paid?

  

  Marine biologists get paid around 70,000 dollars a year. However, this depends on who employs you and the sort of work you're doing. Ironically, if it's government desk work, you'll probably get more than doing the real thing.

• Question

  I reside in Chattanooga TN. Where are the nearest colleges and/or universities that teach courses in marine biology?

  

  Texas A & M University, Louisiana State University, and Auburn University in Alabama.

• Question

  Can I study to become a marine biologist in Northern Ireland?

  

  Yes. Queen's University Belfast offers a marine biology program.

• Question

  What can I do if my college only offers biology classes?

  

  Take the biology courses that are offered, visit your professors during office hours, and express your interest in marine biology. Ask them for their advice. Most likely you will need to pursue a graduate degree if you want to focus on marine biology.

• Question

  How long does it usually take for this process?

  

  It really depends on which specialty you are going into and how much education you plan on getting before doing it professionally. A bachelor's degree will take you four to five years, and a master's degree will take you another three to four. A life as a marine biologist may take a lifetime of experience before you become one.

• Question

  Can I volunteer at an aquarium if I'm in middle school?

  

  Typically speaking, no, but it depends on the job they would give you. You can contact them specifically and ask.

• Question

  What can I do to become a marine biologist if I am 11 years old right now?

  

  Focus on your studies -- especially your science classes.

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To become a marine biologist, start by earning a bachelor's degree in biology or marine biology, depending on what your college offers. Next, get a master's degree in marine biology or marine science. You may want to earn a Ph. D in marine biology if you plan to write and publish scholarly research. Then, learn practical skills like how to use GIS software, boat handling, scuba diving, and first aid. Finally, seek out an internship to gain invaluable experience in the field. For more tips on gaining experience, read on!

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