College of The Albemarle’s Marine Sciences program offers an educational foundation for a variety of careers. Areas of marine sciences include extraction of resources, transportation, research, and environmental impact. The program provides flexible training and instruction in a variety of areas related to marine industries, enabling students to seek further education or employment opportunities in specific areas in which they are interested.

The program’s curriculum includes training and instruction in small vessel operation, navigation, and fishing methodologies, as well as courses in biological studies. Specific coursework includes:

• Marine Biology
• Fishing Gear Technology
• Introduction to Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• Boat Handling and Seamanship
• Marine Navigation
• Water Analysis
• Oceanography
• Ecology

COA’s Marine Sciences program offers an Associate in Applied Science degree that prepares students to pursue advanced degrees and /or work in marine scientific support, commercial fishing, and ecotourism related industries. Employment growth for people trained and skilled in marine science is expected to increase 10-20% over the next ten years.

These classes are only offered at the Dare County Campus.

For more information about the careers within this program of study, please click on the links below:

Occupational Outlook Handbook - Fishing Vessel Operators

Occupational Outlook Handbook - Science Technicians

Occupational Outlook Handbook - Water Transportation Occupations

Transferring to a Four-Year College or University

East Carolina University has an articulated 2+2 transfer program in Marine Science.

If you are undecided about your program of study or need further assistance visit Career Services.

Faculty and Staff

Dana Newton, Assistant Professor and Marine Science Program Coordinator
B.S. Biology, Minor Chemistry – Virginia Tech 2001
M.S. Biology – Old Dominion University 2002

Facilities

Roanoke Island Campus – Welding and Industrial Skills classes will be held in new building under construction.

Dare County Campus – All other courses

COAstal Explorer – 24 ft floating lab pontoon boat, resource used to teach MSC courses in the field. Allows for hands on work.