With most of our world covered by oceans, it is critically important to understand the biology of marine organisms and ecosystems.
The marine biology minor is an intercollegiate curriculum through which students learn foundational concepts of oceanography, sustainable use, and marine ecology. Through a combination of courses, laboratories, field-trips, internships and study abroad experiences, students who complete the minor will gain knowledge and skills that will enrich their lives and provide a base for subsequent study in marine sciences. Learn more about opportunities in marine biology.
Declare your Marine Biology minor >>
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Advisory board
The marine biology minor is an intercollegiate program, drawing on faculty strengths in the College of Biological Sciences (CBS), the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS), and the College of Science and Engineering (CSE). Our advisory board consists of representatives from each of these three colleges.
- Raymond Newman, minor director, Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology | CFANS
- Sehoya Cotner, Biology Teaching and Learning | CBS
- Peter Sorensen, Fisheries and Wildlife | CFANS
- Katsumi Matsumoto, Earth Science | CSE
- Jake Bailey, Earth Science | CSE
Admission requirements
Students who have at least a 2.0 GPA and have completed the following courses with a C- or better will be eligible for admission to the minor:
- Biology 1009 or equivalent
- Chemistry 1061 or 1081 and Chemistry 1065
Program description >>
Specific course requirements and electives.
Opportunities in marine biology >>
Learn about specific courses that will enable you to travel and meet course requirements in the field!
University catalog >>
Comprehensive program information.
Contact your advisor
- CBS Academic Advising
3-104 MCB | East Bank
612-624-9717 - CFANS Academic Advising
190 Coffey Hall
612-624-6768 - CSE Academic Advising
105 Lind Hall
612-624-2890
Get involved
Join the Marine Biology Club and sign up for their listserv for more information.