
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 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.
Coastal and marine science degree courses
Your coursework includes biology, chemistry and quantitative applications (e.g., calculus, statistics, digital blue planet). 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 valued at over a trillion dollars and continues to grow, making this an ideal time to pursue this degree. Blue jobs span industries 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: 3.9%
Salary: $87,300
Biologists
Growth: 3.9%
Salary: $87,300
Data Scientists
Growth: 35.2%
Salary: $103,500
Conservation Scientists
Growth: 4.1%
Salary: $64,460
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
Growth: 5.8%
Salary: $48,380
Survey Researchers
Growth: -3.8%
Salary: $60,410
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
Growth: 3.0%
Salary: $67,430
Water Resource Specialists
Growth: 4.8%
Salary: $144,440
Life Scientists, All Other
Growth: 5.2%
Salary: $83,930
Sustainability Specialists
Growth: 4.1%
Salary: $75,990