Graduate Education

The Department of Marine Sciences offers interdisciplinary training in the physics, chemistry, geology, and biology of marine systems on local, regional, and global scales. Our graduate programs prepare students for the next step in their professional careers, including academia, government, private industry, and nonprofit organizations.

Degree Programs

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Oceanography

Our doctoral program allows students to gain hands-on experience in biological, physical, and chemical/geological oceanography. Students work closely with their faculty advisor to develop a program of coursework tailored to their interests. The average time to complete our Ph.D. is 6.2 years.

Master of Science (MS) in Oceanography

We offer two plans of study for our master’s degree: a research-oriented Plan A (thesis) program and a course-based Plan B program. Research specialties include biological, physical, and chemical/geological oceanography.

4+1 Bachelor of Science (BS)/Master of Science (MS) Program

UConn students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marine sciences can apply to use up to 12 credits of graduate coursework taken as an undergraduate towards both their BS and MS. For students in the accelerated program, the MS degree (Plan B) can be earned in a single year after finishing the BS.

Graduate Student Projects Available

Are you a prospective graduate student? Click here to see a list of faculty and research projects that may be available for students enrolling in 2025. Click here to sign up for the pre-application info session for our graduate program, which will be held Dec 5, 2024 at noon Eastern time.

Certificate Program

Graduate Certificate Oceanographic Science and Technology

Our certificate program is designed to train engineers and environmental scientists in oceanographic science and technology. We focus on environmental factors, design challenges, and analysis with direct applications to the fields of marine technology, ocean engineering, and marine renewable energy. This program is subject to different financial aid standards than our degree programs.

Resources for Graduate Students

Incoming students are encouraged to explore a variety of resources available in the Department of Marine Sciences and across the University.

Financial Aid

All students accepted into our program receive a graduate assistantship, which includes a tuition waiver, stipend, and optional medical benefits. Find more information on our Financial Aid page.

Campus and Facilities

The Department of Marine Sciences is housed on the shores of Long Island Sound at UConn Avery Point. The graduate student body consists of 30-40 students who come from all over the U.S. and around the world.

There is no on-campus graduate housing at Avery Point. Most students live in the Groton-New London area where they often share rent on a house or apartment.

From poetry nights to Sailing Club, student life is enhanced by a unique fusion of creative energy. Students join clubs and activities, utilize UConn Avery Point’s athletics center with a pool, and get involved within the community.

Graduate Handbook

 
The Graduate Student Handbook provides information about plans of study, teaching opportunities, and professional development.

Graduate Employee and Postdoc Union Contract

 
The details of the Graduate Employee and Postdoc Union Contract and the associated rights and responsibilities are detailed on their website.

International Students

International students contribute to the cultural diversity, academic excellence, and research innovation of the Department of Marine Sciences. Additional resources are available to ease their transition.