Explore jobs and outcomes for an online bachelor’s in marine studies
The oceans are home to more than half of all species on Earth, and roughly half of the atmospheric oxygen we breathe comes from ocean plants.
If you have ever felt the pull of the salty sea air or imagined life among some of our planet’s most beautiful places, then you understand the importance of protecting ocean and coastal resources for future generations.
And earning your marine studies bachelor’s degree online from Oregon State University can help you play a role in that work.
While marine science careers often focus on ecological research and data collection at sea, a degree in marine studies does this and more by opening doors to broader career paths. From coastal management and policy to communication and advocacy, marine studies is less about working in a lab and more about engaging with the world’s oceans in ways that understand communities and shape industries.
Enter the “blue economy”, as major government organizations like the UN and NOAA call it, the knowledge-based economy that focuses on the ocean as a source of material resources and a provider of data and insights to tackle societal challenges and inspire innovative solutions.
In 2019, the American blue economy accounted for $397 billion of the nation’s gross domestic product, and demand for maritime commerce is expected to triple by 2030.
And the online bachelor’s degree in marine studies from Oregon State University is unique — one of only a handful in the United States and one of even fewer offered online. It zeroes in on the blue economy through an emphasis on communications, policy and conservation.
Lori Cramer, assistant director of Oregon State University’s marine studies program, says that students develop “transferable skills useful to any organization” through their engagement with various communication methods, including “art, music, journalism, social media and policy analysis.” These skills allow students to convey the numerous ways humans connect to the ocean and marine environment, benefiting fields like conservation, education, outreach, tourism, and recreation.
So, with a core focus on being a steward of the ocean, what can you do when you earn a bachelor’s degree in marine studies online from Oregon State University? Let’s explore.
Natural sciences and conservation
First, let’s explore the sector most associated with marine biology. Marine studies graduates gain skills related to conservation planning and management, field research, data collection and marine ecology.
Working for large organizations like the National Ocean Service provides ample opportunity for exploring natural science and conservation roles. When offering career advice, NOS employee Gabrielle Canonico shares that “[w]hile it’s important to have a science background, it’s also important to jump on opportunities to see how policy is made or science is done in the setting [you] want to work in.”
Titles for positions in this type of work vary widely, often focusing on a specific funding program or initiative, but core responsibilities best align with roles like conservation coordinator, marine resource specialist or environmental compliance officer.
Communications and advocacy
Oregon State’s marine studies degree program places significant emphasis on communication. Understanding how to share scientific concepts with the general public is a valuable skill that applies to a variety of contexts. Relatedly, skills in public speaking, stakeholder engagement and general knowledge of marine conservation issues all contribute to this program’s application to careers in communications and advocacy.
Andrew Lewin, host of the “How to Protect the Ocean” podcast, emphasizes that “science communication is recognized as a vital component of marine conservation,” acting as a crucial link between scientists and the public. Its growing importance reflects the need to effectively convey conservation messages and inspire action.
If you’re interested in working in communications and advocacy, you can pursue positions like environmental educator, science communicator or public relations specialist.
Tourism and outdoor recreation
With 3% of U.S. employees working in the outdoor recreation sector and ecotourism spending growing 20-34% annually, the opportunities to get involved in this industry are vast. Through Oregon State’s online marine studies program, you’ll gain applicable skills related to eco-tourism planning and management, communication and public engagement, and environmental education and interpretation.
Positions in this industry can be found in both the public and private sector, in organizations such as resorts, the National Park Service and tour agencies. According to Indeed, ecotourism jobs “often involve ensuring the safety of local communities at popular destinations, educating travelers about culture and sustainability, designing sustainable technology, planning sustainable developments or marketing sustainable travel opportunities.”
Positions like these can range from park ranger to recreational program manager and even tour guide.
Economic development and policy
According to Marine Careers with NOAA’s Sea Grant, marine policy specialists aim to “protect the environment, marine life and humans” through informed policies grounded in accurate scientific information. These experts may work in various roles, including as congressional staffers or within conservation organizations.
In your marine studies bachelor’s coursework, you’ll learn how to apply related skills in policy analysis and development, environmental impact assessment and your understanding of marine economics.
In this industry, consider positions like environmental economist, marine policy analyst or lobbyist.
Bolster your marine studies degree
Because this degree program is broad and has such varied applications, you can bolster your learning with a specialization or graduate school. Some great options from Oregon State include:
- Minor in Indigenous studies
- Certificate in design for social impact
- Microcredential in public policy foundations
- Master’s degree in environmental sciences
Or, explore Oregon State’s 100+ online degrees, certificates and microcredentials and find a program that fits with your area of interest.
So, how do you make your next move?
Apply to Oregon State University today or connect with an Oregon State Ecampus enrollment services specialist to learn more.
