St. Thomas University (FL)

What you'll study

This programme integrates biological, chemical and physical principles to understand marine and coastal environments. Core coursework typically covers marine biology, oceanography, coastal ecology, environmental chemistry, conservation biology and ecological statistics. Students also study related topics such as wetlands ecology, marine policy and resource management, GIS for environmental applications, and environmental ethics.

Instruction balances classroom theory with laboratory skills and field-based learning. Typical practical components include boat-based surveys, seagrass and mangrove monitoring, water quality sampling and analysis, microscopy, and ecological field methods. Many students complete a senior capstone project, independent research or internship that applies scientific techniques to a real-world environmental question.

Degree structure commonly includes general education requirements, a set of required major courses, electives that allow specialisation (for example in marine conservation, fisheries science, or environmental monitoring), and experiential credits earned through internships or research placements.

Entry requirements

Admission is through the university's standard undergraduate process. Competitive applicants present a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Recommended high school courses include biology, chemistry, physics, and algebra or precalculus. Practical experience such as volunteering with environmental groups, participation in field programmes, or laboratory work strengthens applications.

Applicants may be asked to submit transcripts, a personal statement, and one or more letters of recommendation. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and details of completed science coursework. Where relevant, the programme may advise or require placement testing for mathematics or language prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of environmental and marine-related careers. Common entry-level roles include marine or environmental technician, research assistant, field ecologist, environmental educator, and resource management technician. Alumni also work with conservation organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), local and state environmental agencies, aquaculture and fisheries operations, and environmental consulting firms.

The degree also provides a foundation for graduate study in marine science, ecology, environmental policy, or related disciplines, and supports career pathways into science communication, environmental law or policy, and academia with additional qualifications.

Why study at St. Thomas University (FL)

St. Thomas University is located in South Florida, providing direct access to a wide range of coastal and subtropical ecosystems — including estuaries, mangroves, seagrass beds and nearby marine waters — that serve as living laboratories for field training and research. The university emphasises small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, which helps students gain hands-on experience and personalised guidance for research and internships.

The programme is designed to connect students with local research centres, conservation organisations and governmental agencies for internship and employment opportunities. An interdisciplinary curriculum that melds natural science with policy and ethics prepares graduates to address complex environmental challenges in the region and beyond.

Students benefit from practical skill development in laboratory techniques, field sampling, data analysis and geographic information systems (GIS), equipping them for immediate entry into the workforce or further academic study.