Distance Learning Marine Biology Training Programs

Marine biology is the study of oceans and seas and the plants and creatures that live in these bodies of water. Marine biologists collect samples, conduct research and analyze data. They work for environmental and conservation organizations, government agencies, fishing companies, aquariums and museums.

Overview of Online Marine Biology Training

Marine biologists typically obtain training through traditional, on-campus degree programs that require hands-on fieldwork. Online marine biology degree programs exist, but they are extremely rare. Some campus-based programs have enough online class options to be considered hybrid options. That means some courses are available through the Web, but the curriculum also features face-to-face sessions, labs, presentations or fieldwork at oceans or beaches.
Distance-learning marine biology classes are more often independent, asynchronous units. Through an online learning system such as Blackboard, students obtain assignments and lecture notes, take exams and quizzes, submit papers and communicate with instructors. Some courses require students to buy software and textbooks.

Distance-Learning Marine Biology Courses

Marine biology courses focus on the ecosystems of oceans, coasts and estuaries. They involve all aquaculture plant and animal life, from microorganisms to whales. Courses incorporate chemistry and plant and animal science. They're available through online lectures, videos and slideshows of marine life and ecosystems developed by independent producers, researchers, aquariums and other sources. Instructors lead online discussions of scientific theories that impact marine ecosystems.

Course Prerequisites

Colleges and universities typically require students interested in taking distance-learning marine biology courses to have taken at least one biology course. Some postsecondary schools mandate a college-level math course in algebra or calculus and solid writing skills.

Possible Online Courses

Marine Biology: Students learn basic marine biology terms, scientific concepts, facts and theories. Online discussions focus on readings and scientific literature. This course expands on the knowledge of genetics, cells and evolution that students acquired in college-level biology courses.
Marine Chemistry: This course focuses on the chemical composition as it affects marine cultures. This includes the properties of seawater and its role in distributing and cycling inorganic nutrients, organic compounds, water-soluble gases and trace metals.
Marine Biological Resources: Topics include the principles of sea life behavior, especially endangered species. Students learn mathematical models that marine resource managers use in fisheries management. A background in algebra and calculus is required.
Marine Mammals: This course examines how marine mammals live, reproduce, communicate and eat. Other topics include migration patterns, mammalian sonar, marine biodiversity and interactions between ocean mammals and humans.