Undergraduate Coastal & Marine Sciences at W&M

Study oceans, climate, and marine life through hands-on research and field experiences.

Undergraduates at William & Mary have many opportunities to explore coastal and marine sciences. Through coursework, research, and field experiences, students are introduced to the global importance of coastal and marine ecosystems, their role in driving biogeochemical cycles, and their significance to society in areas such as food production, climate regulation, industry, and culture.

Students examine ocean biodiversity—from microbes to whales—and explore a wide range of habitats, from shallow intertidal zones to the deepest parts of the ocean. Along the way, they engage with the complex physical, biological, and socioeconomic processes that shape marine systems.

This site serves as a guide to undergraduate coastal and marine science at W&M, with pages that provide detailed information on:

Academic Programs

• Major in Coastal & Marine Sciences: Learn about the interdisciplinary major launched in Fall 2025, the first of its kind at a public university in Virginia housed at the Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences.
• Minor in Coastal & Marine Sciences:  Explore how to combine coursework, research, and policy through a collaboration between the College of Arts & Sciences and the Batten School.
• Explore Introductory & Field Coursework in Coastal & Marine Sciences:  Discover lecture, seminar, and field-based courses that provide a strong foundation in marine science while allowing you to explore specific areas of interest.

Research & Engagement

• Conduct Research: Work with faculty and graduate student mentors across disciplines such as marine biology and ecology, marine chemistry, fisheries, physical oceanography, coastal and marine geology, and aquatic health.
• Get Connected: Stay engaged by joining student organizations like the Marine Science Society or AquaCo, and by signing up for the undergraduate marine science listserv.

Visit and Learn More

• Prospective Student Tours:  ALL tours for APRIL are full, please check back for additional dates in the coming weeks. 
• Campus Visits: Attend a 90 minute guided behind the scenes public tours of our research labs, river front facilities and ongoing work at VIMS on select days during the summer. 
• Request additional information:  Have questions after reviewing the site? Complete our short form and we'll be in touch. You can also contact the Associate Director for Undergraduate Student Success, Chris Wlosinski (cmwlosinski@vims.edu)

Unsure of what you can do with a degree or minor in Coastal & Marine Sciences? Check out the What Can I Do With This Major? resource, provided through the W&M Cohen Career Center (available when on campus internet). Explore areas of study, potential employers, strategies for career advancement and more!