Program Overview

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Ocean Futures (Coastal and Marine Science) Program

The Bachelor of Science program in Ocean Futures with a concentration in Coastal and Marine Science focuses on the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of coastal and marine systems. It aims to develop students' knowledge of integrated ocean science, as well as their cognitive skills in critical and futures thinking, information and digital literacy, and problem-solving.

Program Description

The program builds on a foundation in coastal and marine system science, covering ecosystem functioning, biogeochemistry, and ocean interaction with the climate system. Students gain research opportunities studying coral reefs, biogeochemical cycling, ocean dynamics, and land-sea interactions. The concentration prepares students for graduate study in various fields, including biological, chemical, and physical oceanography; coastal ecosystem science; and coral reef science.

At a Glance

• College/School: College of Global Futures
• Location: Tempe or Online
• Second Language Requirement: No
• STEM-OPT Extension Eligible: Yes
• First Required Math Course: MAT 251 - Calculus for Life Sciences
• Math Intensity: Moderate

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Ocean Futures (Coastal and Marine Science) program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of coastal and marine systems. Students can view the detailed curriculum for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Concurrent Program Options

Students pursuing concurrent degrees earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. They can work with their academic advisors to create their own concurrent degree combination, considering the high levels of overlap in curriculum.

Admission Requirements

• General University Admission Requirements: All students must meet general university admission requirements.
  • First-year
  • Transfer
  • International
  • Readmission

Tuition Information

Tuition fees vary, and students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find the best fit for their situation.

Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors. Students should visit the Change of Major form for more information.

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants can view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

Global Opportunities

• Global Experience: With over 300 Global Education program opportunities, students can tailor their experience to their interests and skill sets.
• Locations: Bermuda, Hawai'i, and Antarctica offer special opportunities for students to enhance their learning.

Career Opportunities

The BS program in Ocean Futures addresses the crucial role of healthy oceans and coastal communities in the future of the planet and human well-being. Graduates are prepared for professional roles in high demand across sectors, including:

• Conservation manager
• Environmental consultant
• Environmental scientist
• Fisheries manager
• Marine biologist
• Marine educator
• Marine research assistant
• Marine research technician
• Marine scientist
• Natural resource manager

Career Paths and Salaries

• Biological Scientist (General): 1.2% growth, $93,330 median salary
• Biologist: 1.2% growth, $93,330 median salary
• Data Scientist: 33.5% growth, $112,590 median salary
• Environmental Analyst: 3.4% growth, $67,950 median salary
• Environmental Specialist: 4.0% growth, $49,490 median salary
• Field Researcher: -5.2% growth, $63,380 median salary
• Fish and Wildlife Biologist: 1.6% growth, $72,860 median salary
• Hydrogeologist: 3.7% growth, $161,180 median salary
• Life Scientist: 3.7% growth, $87,800 median salary
• Sustainability Specialist: 3.0% growth, $81,270 median salary

Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) Program

The WUE program allows residents of western states (other than Arizona) to be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. Students from western states who select this major may be eligible for a reduced nonresident tuition rate of 150 percent of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees.