Marine and Coastal Science, BS

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on the Bachelor of Science in Marine and Coastal Science (MACS) at Western Washington University, an interdisciplinary program designed for students passionate about understanding and protecting our vital ocean and coastal environments. This undergraduate degree equips you with a comprehensive understanding of the physical, chemical, geological, and biological processes that shape marine ecosystems. You will explore critical issues such as marine pollution, climate change impacts, and conservation strategies, developing the scientific acumen and practical skills necessary to address complex environmental challenges. This program is ideal for those seeking a hands-on, research-intensive education in a field of growing global importance.

You will study this engaging program full-time on campus over four years, beginning with an immersive research experience at the Shannon Point Marine Center. Your curriculum will integrate foundational coursework in chemistry, biology, geology, and physics with specialized marine and coastal science core subjects, including marine geologic, chemical, ecological, and physical processes. Throughout your studies, you will have opportunities for fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation. The program culminates in a capstone experience, where you will undertake advanced research or a professional work experience, preparing you to graduate with the expertise sought for careers in environmental consulting, research, conservation, and policy.

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Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Marine and Coastal Science program provides a comprehensive foundation in the scientific principles governing marine and coastal environments. Preparatory coursework includes foundational biology, chemistry, geology, physics, and calculus. The core curriculum delves into specialized marine science topics, covering geological, chemical, ecological, and physical processes, alongside marine habitat diversity, pollution, and societal impacts. Students will also engage with research methodologies and gain exposure to various marine science disciplines through electives.

1 Preparatory (35-41 credits)

Introduction to Evolution, Ecology and Biodiversity w/lab
General Chemistry I
General Chemistry II
General Chemistry III
General Chemistry I, Honors
General Chemistry II, Honors
General Chemistry III, Honors
Physical Geology
Introduction to Geology
Physical Geology Review
Colloquium in Geology
Physics with Calculus I
Calculus and Analytic Geometry I
Calculus and Analytic Geometry II
Calculus I Honors
Calculus II Honors
Accelerated Calculus

2 MACS Core (43-46 credits)

Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Biology w/lab
Introduction to Organismal Biology w/lab
Physics with Calculus II
Physics with Calculus III
Marine Habitat Diversity
Introduction to Marine and Coastal Science
Introduction to Marine and Coastal Science Research
Integrated Marine Science Core: Marine Geologic Processes
Integrated Marine Science Core: Marine Chemical Processes
Integrated Marine Science Core: Marine Ecological Processes
Integrated Marine Science Core: Marine Physical Processes
Marine Science and Society
Intro to Marine and Coastal Science: Speaker Series
Biostatistics
Biostatistical Analysis
Marine Pollution
Paleoceanography
Ichthyology

3 Electives (24 credits)

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 110,760.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,450.00 - USD 1,750.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Bellingham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agribusiness Inputs (Seeds, Fertilizers & Machinery)Agricultural Technology & Precision FarmingClinical Trials & DevelopmentDrug Discovery & ResearchFood Processing & ManufacturingHealthcare ConsultingLivestock & Animal HusbandryMedical Devices & DiagnosticsPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & Physiotherapy

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Fred Hutch

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS)

Why Study Marine and Coastal Science, BS at Western Washington University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Western Washington University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Marine and Coastal Science, BS at Western Washington University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks in the U.S. On-campus jobs do not require additional permits.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International applicants need to meet specific English test scores: for Duolingo, an overall score of 105; for TOEFL, at least a combined score of 79; and for IELTS, a minimum overall score of 6.5. These scores ensure students are prepared for academic success.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Marine Biologist, Coastal Ecologist, Research Scientist, Environmental Consultant, and Oceanographer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The B.S. in Marine and Coastal Science (MACS) is an interdisciplinary program focusing on coastal and marine research. It combines expertise from the Departments of Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, and Geology, providing hands-on learning experiences.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Marine and Coastal Science program offers intake months in January, March, and September. Students can apply to start their studies during any of these periods.
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