Marine Biology is a natural fit (pun intended) for those coming to the University of South Alabama because of our close proximity to the field. Read on to find out why Biology majors with a concentration in Marine Biology on the Gulf Coast have an edge over those at landlocked colleges across the country.

 

 

The Gulf of Mexico

Ever dream about discovering a new marine animal? The Gulf of Mexico, about 55 miles away from the University of South Alabama, is home to 15,000 different species (and counting). From seaweed to bay scallops to yellowfin tuna, the Gulf is teeming with life for you to explore.

Mobile Bay

If (sort of) freshwater is your thing, Mobile Bay will be your jam. Mobile Bay is an estuary, which means it is where freshwater rivers (five, to be exact) and the sea meet. It results in a brackish environment perfect for alligators, turtles, snakes, birds, and other life to learn about and study.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Dauphin Island Sea Lab, a marine research center on scenic Dauphin Island, is also home to the Estuarium, an aquarium open to the public. Marine Biology students at USA are required to take eight credit hours at the Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium (MESC) at Dauphin Island. You’ll have the ability to choose electives like Shark and Ray Biology, Coastal Birds, Marine Aquaculture, and more.

Research Vessels

Dauphin Island Sea Lab’s research vessels, the E.O. Wilson and the Alabama Discovery, you can embark on research expeditions, hauling up netfuls of marine specimens to examine.

 

There’s absolutely nothing like hands-on experience, and Biology majors with a concentration in Marine Biology at South Alabama have countless opportunities to enrich themselves and become experts in their field. Plus, think about how great all of this stuff will look on your resume!