Minor in Marine Science

Seventy percent of Earth's surface is covered by oceans. Their immense size shapes weather patterns, regulates climate, and influences rainfall. Ocean dynamics affect temperatures and moisture levels, impacting life far beyond the water's edge.

The Marine Sciences minor at the Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences provides students with basic academic knowledge and field experience. This program helps students apply the skills they learn in their major field of study to real-world questions in marine science.

Photo Courtesy of Sophia Corde

Photo Courtesy of Sophia Corde

When the ocean becomes the classroom, students experience learning through real-world exploration.

A minor in marine sciences can provide you with a broader understanding of our oceans as well as increase your career and academic opportunities. This minor is open to any University of South Alabama majors, although students not majoring in other science disciplines will likely need additional preparation or prerequisite courses. 

Introductory and core classes are offered at the University of South Alabama's main campus. However, most of our faculty also work at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL), located approximately 35 miles south of Mobile. Within a short distance of these two locations, there are diverse habitats including:

• the Mobile Delta,
• Mobile Bay
• Mississippi Sound
• Barrier Islands and
• Open Gulf Habitats