10 Exciting Careers in Marine Science (Beyond Marine Biology)
Published on 12/25/24
Written by Jessica Colla
Dreaming of a career connected to the ocean but not sure marine biology is the perfect fit? You’re not alone—and the good news is, it’s just one of MANY exciting paths in marine science!
In this blog, we’ll dive into the diverse and fascinating fields that go beyond traditional marine biology, showcasing career opportunities that play a vital role in understanding and protecting our blue planet. Whether you’re passionate about technology, history, chemistry, or wildlife, there’s a place for you in ocean conservation.
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I often get the question, “Is marine biology the only scientific field pertaining to the ocean?” and the answer is, “Absolutely not!” While marine biology often steals the spotlight, the world of marine science is as vast as the ocean itself, and contains many fields you may have never considered before.
If you’re drawn to the ocean for a career but aren’t sure marine biology is the right fit, you’re not alone. Many aspiring ocean advocates feel limited by the idea that “marine biologist” is the only career path for studying the ocean. The truth is, there are countless adjacent sciences that play equally important roles in ocean research and conservation.
Take it from me—my Marine Science and Management degree gave me a solid foundation for a career in ocean conservation without tying me to the title of “marine biologist” during job searches. This broader approach allowed me to explore and appreciate the many fields that contribute to our understanding of the ocean. It’s this incredible diversity that makes marine science so exciting!
In this post, we’ll explore a range of fascinating ocean-based-science career paths outside traditional marine biology.
Lets dive in!
1. Marine Science
Description: This interdisciplinary field studies the marine environment from various perspectives: physical, chemical, biological, and informational. It also addresses human interactions with the ocean, such as conservation challenges and solutions.
Why is it important? Marine sciences help us understand the complex and interconnected systems of the ocean, enabling us to address key challenges such as climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss and sustainable resource use.
What can you do with this degree? Careers include marine conservationist, environmental consultant, or researcher in policy advocacy, focusing on marine environmental protection.
How to Get Started: Start by gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering with marine conservation organizations or research projects. Pursuing additional certifications like SCUBA diving or environmental education can also enhance your skills and employability in marine science.
*this was MY masters degree! This emphasis on interactions between humans and the ocean is where “marine conservation” comes into play!
2. Oceanography
Description: Oceanography focuses on the physical and chemical aspects of the ocean, such as currents, waves, temperatures, pH levels, and toxins. It also examines how these factors interact with marine life.
Why is it important? Understanding oceanographic processes is critical for predicting climate patterns, protecting marine ecosystems, and ensuring the health of fisheries and coastal communities.
What can you do with this degree? Careers include oceanographer, climate scientist, or environmental consultant in industries like renewable energy and environmental monitoring.
How to Get Started: Get involved in oceanographic research by applying for research assistant positions or internships with universities or oceanographic institutes. Learn programming and data analysis skills to work with large datasets and simulation models in oceanography.
3. Marine Engineering
Description: This field combines mechanical, electrical, civil, acoustic, and chemical engineering to design and refine equipment used in ocean exploration and research.
Why is it important? Marine engineering drives innovation in underwater technology, enabling exploration of the deep sea, development of renewable energy systems, environmental monitoring, and protection of coastal infrastructure.
What can you do with this degree? Careers include marine engineer, offshore energy systems designer, or developer of cutting-edge exploration technology like ROVs and submersibles.
How to Get Started: Participate in engineering-focused internships with marine technology companies or organizations. Gaining hands-on experience with ROVs, underwater robotics, or renewable energy projects will be crucial for entering this field.
4. Marine geology
Description: Studies the physical properties of the ocean floor, including sediment formation, plate tectonics, underwater volcanoes, and the evolution of ocean basins to better understand Earth's structure and the dynamics of seafloor ecosystems.
Why is it important? Marine geology helps predict natural disasters like tsunamis and provides insights into Earth's history and resource management.
What can you do with this degree? Careers include marine geologist roles in energy exploration, academic research, or environmental impact assessment.
How to Get Started: Gain experience in geological fieldwork or laboratory research through internships or volunteering opportunities with universities or environmental agencies. Joining geological societies can also help you network with professionals in the field.
5. Marine Chemistry
Description: Focuses on the chemical composition of seawater, the interactions between chemicals in the ocean, and how various substances, like nutrients or pollutants, affect marine life and the environment.
Why is it important? Marine chemistry helps us understand the impact of pollutants, the cycling of essential nutrients, the cycling of nutrients critical for marine ecosystems and fisheries, and the ocean’s role in regulating the global climate.
What can you do with this degree? Careers include marine chemist, environmental consultant specializing in water quality, or researcher in oceanic pollution and its effects on ecosystems.
How to Get Started: Begin by participating in environmental research programs or internships at marine labs. Focus on learning analytical techniques for measuring chemical composition in water samples and environmental pollutants.
6. Marine Archaeology
Description: Studies human interaction with the sea in historical contexts, including shipwrecks, ancient maritime trade routes, and underwater artifacts, to understand human history and culture through submerged sites.
Why is it important?: Preserving marine history connects us to past civilizations and highlights the impacts of human activity on coastal environments.
What can you do with this degree?: Careers include marine archaeologist roles in museums, cultural heritage organizations, or academic institutions.
How to Get Started: Look for internships or volunteer positions with museums, historical societies, or marine archaeological organizations to gain hands-on experience in underwater excavation and artifact preservation.
7. Marine Biotechnology
Description: Explores the use of marine organisms and their unique properties for developing new pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and other biotechnological applications.
Why is it important?: Marine biotechnology leverages ocean resources to solve global challenges in healthcare, energy, and sustainability while fostering economic growth in blue technologies.
What can you do with this degree?: Careers include biotechnologist, pharmaceutical researcher, or innovation specialist in sustainable bio-based industries.
How to Get Started: Look for research assistant roles in marine biotechnology labs or biotechnology companies. Attend relevant industry conferences to stay updated on the latest advancements in marine biotechnology.
8. Aquaculture
Description: Involves the farming of fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants for food, restoration, and commercial purposes.
Why is it important?: Aquaculture provides a sustainable solution to overfishing and supports global food security.
What can you do with this degree?: Careers include aquaculture technician, sustainable fisheries advocate, or marine farming consultant.
How to Get Started: Gain practical experience through internships at aquaculture farms or organizations focused on sustainable fish farming. Certifications in aquaculture management or fisheries science can help you stand out in this growing industry.
9. ANIMAL HUSBANDRY
Description: Focuses on the care, breeding, and management of animals, including those in aquariums, rehabilitation centers, and marine parks, ensuring their health and well-being in managed environments.
Why is it important?: Animal husbandry ensures the ethical and effective care of marine animals in captivity, supporting conservation, education, and research efforts while promoting public awareness of marine species and ecosystems.
What can you do with this degree?: Careers include marine animal caretaker at aquariums, wildlife rehabilitation specialist, or animal welfare officer working to improve the lives of animals in managed or rescue settings.
How to Get Started: Volunteer or intern with animal rescue organizations, aquariums, or wildlife rehabilitation centers. Pursuing certifications in animal care or wildlife rehabilitation can be helpful for building a career in animal husbandry.
10. CLIMATOLOGY
Description: The study of climate systems and patterns, including the effects of climate change on ocean temperatures, sea levels, and weather events, and their impact on marine and coastal ecosystems.
Why is it important?: Climatology provides critical insights into how climate change affects the oceans and marine life, helping to shape policies and strategies for mitigating its impacts on global ecosystems.
What can you do with this degree?: Careers include climate scientist, environmental policy advisor, or researcher focusing on climate-related changes to marine and coastal environments.
How to Get Started: Begin by looking for internships at climate research institutions or environmental organizations focusing on marine climatology. Acquiring skills in data analysis, GIS, and climate modeling will help you excel in this field.
FINAL THOUGHTS - charting your course
While marine biology may dominate conversations about ocean careers, adjacent fields like oceanography, geology, and environmental engineering are just as vital. From studying the chemistry of seawater to engineering technologies for underwater exploration, the world of marine science is as diverse as the ocean itself (hehehe, cheesy I know!). Every discipline contributes to a greater understanding of this incredible blue planet, and every skillset has a place in ocean conservation.
It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out just yet. Like the ocean, your career path can evolve and shift over time. The best way to find your niche is to stay curious, explore your options, and embrace the journey. Consider researching these fields further, volunteering with organizations that delve into these studies, or connecting with professionals to learn more about what excites you.
And remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. There’s a thriving community of ocean advocates, scientists, and conservationists—including myself—ready to support and guide you. Programs like those offered by Kaimana Conservation can also help you get started.
REMEMBER: No matter which path you choose, your contributions matter. The ocean needs scientists of all kinds, working together to uncover its secrets and protect its future. So, dive in and explore—you might just find a passion you never knew existed!
Did I leave anything out?? Leave a comment below with your favorite marine science careers!
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