These curricula prepare individuals for a variety of marine-related occupations such as marine conservation, water analysis, marine scientific research support and commercial fishing. Individuals will be prepared as naturalists within the ecotourism industry and be trained in observational and measurement techniques aboard a variety of vessels including ocean-going research vessels.

Course work includes a unique blend of traditional and contemporary vocational, technical, and scientific marine education. Course work specific for Marine Sciences includes instruction in biological sciences, environmental sciences, and marine sciences. Field and laboratory experiences prepare students to identify, observe, and collect scientific data associated with the fauna and flora found in the rivers, estuaries, sounds, and ocean. Course work in Marine Technologies includes instruction in the use of physical, chemical, meteorological, biological, and geological oceanographic instrumentation and sampling equipment.

Graduates are prepared for employment opportunities with aquariums, fisheries, corps of engineers, marine patrol, ecotourism companies, commercial fishing industries, entry-level field or laboratory positions with industries, state and federal agencies, and educational facilities associated with marine science and research. Career opportunities include oceanography, environmental science, marine biology, geophysical exploration, and fisheries-related employment. 

Marine Technology: A program that provides the practical and academic skills essential for success in marine scientific support. Training in the operation and maintenance of seismic and hydrographic instrumentation including: side scan sonar, multibeam echo sounders, and sub-bottom profilers is provided in the classroom and underway at sea. Additional course work includes: classic and digital navigation techniques, practical applications of boat handling, seamanship, marlinspike seamanship, and safety at sea. Instruction applicable to fisheries science and environmental assessment is provided.

Although placement testing is not required for this particular pathway, some of the classes within this pathway do require certain math or reading levels and therefore would require a placement test or other testing scores before registration. Please check each course within this pathway to see which applies.