Careers in Marine Biology

Careers in Marine Biology

Do you have any idea that around 70% of the total protein that we humans consume comes from oceans? Yes, we are talking about the much talked about field of marine biology. Resources from natural ecosystems play a pivotal role in the life of humans. The society still needs to understand the essentialities of the marine life and its natural ecosystem. It needs to be understood because marine biology contributes immensely to the over all development of our society. When we talk of marine biology , most of us must have taken it as a single field. In fact, marine biology can be further divided into several sub-fields. There is a common misconception about the roles or work profile of a marine biologist. People generally have the view that becoming a marine biologist means spending all your time in the company of whales and dolphins. But, this is not true! You can become as assistant professor, a full time professor or you can also join as a science teaching faculty at a college or a university. You can even become a part of the team which is conducting a research on the behavior of aquatic animals and their interaction with the environment.

The vast ocean features a whole world of microscopic world. The field of marine biology deals with the research and study of different species of aquatic animals, fishes and ecology. While studying marine biology, one gets to know about the behaviours of a variety of aquatic animals and the bond that they share with the environment. The profession of a microbiologist asks for a lot of dedication and determination. We dream to explore the space. But, have we ever wondered what lies on our planet. Have we ever thought to contribute towards the development of society by becoming a marine biologist?

If you love research work, marine biology can make your dream come true to. The endless expanse of ocean provides you some of the most exciting opportunities of exploration. And this exploration is never going to be any less soul satisfying than that of the space. We crave to go up into the space. But have we thought about what lies beneath?

Courses & Degrees in Marine Biology

Those who have a keen interest in aquatic animals, fishes and ecology would pursue the education of a marine biologist with keen interest. What makes you eligible to pursue a degree in marine biology is an undergraduate major in biology. If you have a strong undergraduate in the same, it will help you a lot in pursuing the educational degree required for this career.

For a solid grounding in biology, students can join choose from a range colleges and universities that can prepare them for further education in the field of marine biology. Isn't it interesting to note that during your preparation for the same, subjects like mathematics, statistics, calculus and computer science will also be partly included in the curriculum?

The stage where you are required to pay utmost attention is during the selection of a college or a university for pursuing a graduate degree in micro biology. The education, however, will account for the position or the career you want to make in marine biology. If someone is keenly interested in coastal ecology, they must choose a college or a university that has people specializing in the very subject. Aspiring students can go for different courses and degrees in this field, right from a bachelor's and a master's to a doctoral degree.

If you are in USA, a master's degree in marine biology can be completed in 2 years. A 6-year duration is required to obtain a Ph.D. in USA. In UK and Australia, however, the doctoral degree can be completed within 3-4 years.

Career Opportunities

The field of marine biology is as vast as the ocean itself. The career opportunities are too many as well. You can choose a career or a position in the field of marine biology depending on the degree or education you possess in the same stream. With a doctorate in marine biology, you can decide to become a teacher or a professor at educational institutions. A doctoral degree in marine biology also makes you eligible for becoming a chief research scientist. With a master's degree in marine biology, you can apply for a teaching job at a high school or join an aquarium. A good academic background with research under a much acclaimed professor would give an extra edge over others. Becoming a lab technician is yet another career option for those educated in marine biology. A master's degree would be required to become a lab technician too.

Salaries Offered

In addition to studying a fascinating marine life, you can also earn a handsome salary as marine biology professional. If you join as an assistant professor at a university, you can earn an impressive salary ranging from $45,000 to $50,000 annually. Summer salaries will be an added advantage. For full professors, the salary range can be as high as $65,000 to $90,000.