What kinds of things should you consider when choosing a college? Does location matter? If you’re considering one of the following majors, it definitely should. The University of South Alabama is an excellent university, and its unique coastal location means it’s the ideal choice if you’re considering these career paths:

 

Meteorology

Mobile is one of the rainiest cities in the country, thanks to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, which churns multiple tropical storms and hurricanes every summer and fall. One of the reasons USA is such a draw for meteorology students is that our students can experience, firsthand, weather operations in real time at our on-campus Alabama Power USA Coastal Weather Research Center, a one-of-a-kind facility. What’s more, students can select from three specific tracks: professional meteorology for employment with the National Weather Service or government; broadcast meteorology for those interested in radio or television; and a graduate school track is available for students who would like to further their studies past the undergraduate curriculum.

 

Hospitality and Tourism Management

Tourists from all over the country, and even the globe, come to visit our sandy beaches and experience the Gulf of Mexico. Students at South can earn a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management while gaining hands-on experience in the multi-million dollar beach tourism industry, in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, just a short distance away from our campus. 

 

Marine Biology/Marine Sciences

USA offers both an undergraduate concentration in marine biology for biology majors and a minor in marine sciences. Because of our proximity to the Gulf Coast and its wetlands, Mobile is the ideal location for marine science studies. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Alabama’s premiere ocean science research center, enjoys a mutually beneficial relationship with our programs and hosts research programs and undergraduate and graduate summer courses for credit. 

 

Geology

Our geology students are fortunate that we are situated less than an hour away from some of the world's most spectacular geological sites, such as Dauphin Island, the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, and Mobile Bay. Our geology majors gain valuable hands-on experience and training on our many field trips to northern Alabama, Texas and New Mexico. Once again, the Gulf of Mexico is a prime destination for this major. Due to small class sizes, faculty are able to provide individual attention and even invite students along on research trips. Many of our alumni are currently employed in the mining, petroleum, environmental, water and research sectors. 

 

If you’re considering meteorology, geology, marine science, or hospitality and tourism as a potential major, you’re definitely going to want to check out the University of South Alabama. Come see South for yourself and book a campus tour today.