Overview

The Marine Science programme at the University of North Carolina Wilmington offers students a rigorous academic environment focused on the interdisciplinary study of oceanic systems. This curriculum is specifically designed for individuals with strong undergraduate backgrounds in mathematics and the sciences who wish to deepen their technical expertise.

Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of modern environmental management. The course structure encourages critical thinking and creative inquiry within a world-class research setting located at the state’s coastal university.

Why Marine Science at University of North Carolina Wilmington?

The University of North Carolina Wilmington is internationally recognised for its excellence in coastal and marine research. As a top doctoral and research institution, it provides students with access to the prestigious Center for Marine Science and advanced facilities that stimulate scientific discovery.

The institution has been featured in the Fiske Guide to Colleges for eight consecutive years and is ranked among the top public national universities by U.S. News & World Report. These accolades reflect a commitment to academic excellence and a supportive environment for high-level scientific inquiry.

International students benefit from the programme's STEM designation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This status allows eligible F1 students to apply for a 24-month optional practical training extension, providing valuable opportunities to gain professional experience within the United States after graduation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 23325 per year
National fee: USD 23325 per year
Local fee: USD 5763 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Physical Oceanography
Marine Geology
Biological Oceanography
Chemical Oceanography
Methods in Scientific Research
Graduate Seminar
Thesis

Careers with Marine Science

Graduates are prepared for a diverse range of professional paths in marine-related industries and environmental management. The programme provides a solid foundation for those looking to enter roles in marine technology, where they can design and develop tools to study aquatic issues.

Many alumni find success in government agencies at local, state, and federal levels, where they conduct vital research and influence environmental policy. Others pursue careers in academia and education, teaching the next generation of scientists or conducting independent research at universities and colleges.

The degree also serves as an excellent stepping stone for further academic study. Many students choose to progress into doctoral programmes, such as a Ph.D. in Applied Coastal and Ocean Sciences or Marine Biology, to further specialise in their chosen field of scientific expertise.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Physical Oceanography

Marine Geology

Biological Oceanography

Chemical Oceanography

Methods in Scientific Research

Graduate Seminar

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Wilmington, United States

Disciplines

Marine Science View 115 other Masters in Marine Science in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

An official application for graduate admission

Official transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate)

Official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (verbal, quantitative, analytical)

Three recommendations by individuals in professionally relevant fields

Statement of research interests, including names of potential faculty advisors.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

23325 USD / year

≈ 23325 USD / year
Out-of-State

23325 USD / year

≈ 23325 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

5763 USD / year

≈ 5763 USD / year

Living costs

Wilmington

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

Interested in financing your studies? Find a student loan that works for you.

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Marine Science.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Wilmington

Financing

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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