Marine Botany
(MARS 3335)

An introduction to marine plants. The focus is on algae (from microscopic phytoplankton to large seaweeds), seagrass, and wetland vegetation (grasses and trees) growing in the marine environment. Identification is taught, as are the biological and ecological processes these plants illustrate. Lab and fieldwork are included.

Ecology (BIOL 2100)

Principles of biological organization at the population, community, and ecosystem levels.  Course will cover the following topics:  interactions between the organism and the physical environment, interactions between the organism and other organisms, energy flow, nutrient cycles, population structure and growth, and community ecology, biodiversity and conservation.

Introduction to Marine Biology (MARS 2201)

An introduction to marine and estuarine environments, designed primarily for the beginning marine science student. Lectures introduce the biological and ecological features of saltwater environments, with an emphasis on natural history of coastal animals and plants. Field and laboratory work with local marine habitats and life.

Marine Conservation Ecology
(MARS/SUST 3201)

This course focuses on coastal zones as ecosystems of global significance.  Material will focus on the development of a knowledge base and the critical thinking skills necessary to understand, analyze and critique the most important conservation and management issues concerning the Earth’s coastal realm and the natural resources it contains. The course attempts to draw students into thinking about conservation issues, tools and the linkages between science and policy.

Tropical Marine Biology (MARS/BIOL 3416)

SUMMER ONLY. A detailed discussion of biology of animals and plants in selected tropical environments, including ecology, life histories, systematics and physiology. A seven- day field trip to Florida is required that will include snorkeling and diving in coral reef and seagrass environments, exploring terrestrial tropical environments such as the Everglades and tagging top marine predators. (Additional course fees apply)