Ocean Futures – Coastal and Marine Science (BS)

Explore quantitative approaches to enhance ocean health and coastal resilience with an online Bachelor of Science in ocean futures with a concentration in coastal and marine science from Arizona State University. This expansive online marine biology program prepares you to develop evidence-based solutions that balance scientific, sustainable and ethical considerations. You’ll graduate with the skills to make an impact across marine science sectors or pursue graduate studies in STEM fields.

Quick facts
Next start date: 03/16/2026
Total classes: 39
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120

Online coastal and marine science degree courses

Your coursework includes biology, chemistry and quantitative applications (e.g., calculus, statistics, digital blue planet), to help you with ocean-related careers. This foundation supports your ocean futures studies in areas such as coral ecology, ocean conservation, ethnobotany, oceanography, marine invertebrate zoology, sustainable seafood and more. You’ll also have opportunities to explore the human impact on the environment and the ocean’s critical role in Earth’s future. 

This program culminates in a workshop and capstone project, where you’ll research and make recommendations for approaches to a practical coastal or marine challenge.

Start your path to careers in marine biology and more

The blue economy is a vital element of our world with an increasing need to promote ocean health and sustainability. With this online degree, you’ll be equipped for marine biology careers and beyond, from fisheries, transportation and tourism to marine conservation, policy and research. With a marine science background, you can apply your knowledge to enhance ocean ecosystems and strengthen coastal communities. 

This degree also prepares you for graduate studies, leading to careers as a marine biologist, scientist or researcher. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:

Biological Scientists, All Other

Growth: 1.2%
Salary: $93,330

Biologists

Growth: 1.2%
Salary: $93,330

Data Scientists

Growth: 33.5%
Salary: $112,590

Conservation Scientists

Growth: 3.4%
Salary: $67,950

Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health

Growth: 4.0%
Salary: $49,490

Survey Researchers

Growth: -5.2%
Salary: $63,380

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

Growth: 1.6%
Salary: $72,860

Water Resource Specialists

Growth: 3.7%
Salary: $161,180

Life Scientists, All Other

Growth: 3.7%
Salary: $87,800

Sustainability Specialists

Growth: 3.0%
Salary: $81,270