Marine Biology

The marine biology degree program at Central Methodist University is all about quality of life... not just the quality of the aquatic world. It begins with a strong interest in life sciences. The marine biology major gives CMU students an opportunity to explore life in the oceans, both in the classroom and through hands-on experiences. The major combines work on campus with summer work at Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in Ocean Springs, Miss. and other locations.

Marine Biology is a diverse subject area that includes the study of everything from SCUBA to marine ecology, and mariculture to aquarium technology. In your studies, you’ll be exposed to various forms of cutting-edge laboratory practice and studies – receiving the practical experience employers believe is vital in the candidates they seek.

As a CMU Marine Biology major, you will have opportunities to:

visit unique places where marine life can be studied, such as research labs and aquatic centers in Missouri, across the country and internationally
develop enhanced skills while using SCUBA equipment, underwater cameras, video editing software, sonar, marine vessels, and microscopes
become efficient in researching, calculating and tabulating information, compiling data, and presenting findings pertaining to marine life
be prepared for in-demand careers in biology, oceanography, marine and plant ecology, toxicology, and much more

CMU has a chapter of Beta Beta Beta, a national honorary biological society (advisors: Dr. Paul Porneluzi and Dr. Greg Thurmon), and a chapter of Alpha Epsilon Delta, a national pre-health professions fraternity (advisor: Dr. Ania Slusarz).

Marine Biology Program Outcomes

Communication of Biological Knowledge and Ability

The well-trained Biology major should be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, about biological and environmental concepts.

Proficiency in Biological Lab Practices

Proper training in Biology requires laboratory proficiency. Students should be able to be proficient in basic laboratory techniques and collection and analysis of data.

Knowledge of Biology

The well-prepared Biology major must build a broad base of knowledge in cell biology, genetics, physiology, ecology, zoology, and biochemistry and should be able to integrate knowledge from several biology fields as they specialize in their chosen area.