Graduate Program in Marine Biology

If you're still an undergraduate, be sure to take Calculus, two semesters of Physics, and Organic Chemistry. These courses lay the foundation for graduate-level study. If you're serious about pursuing science, plan ahead.

Most biology departments offer excellent upper-level courses (300- and 400-level), and we expect our incoming students to have a solid background in Molecular Biology and Ecology.

If you're missing one or more of the required courses but have strong laboratory or field research experience, that experience may fulfill the requirement, and you may be offered admission with no conditions. Otherwise, you may be admitted conditionally, with the expectation that you complete the necessary coursework before starting the program.

We want to set you up for success—not struggle—during your first year.

Your first paragraph should grab our attention.

The Admissions Committee is looking for a clear, thoughtful narrative about your research experiences—both lab and field-based—your current interests in marine biology, and your professional goals in pursuing an M.S. degree.

Tell us your story and why this path matters to you.

Let your professors get to know the real you—your passion, your work ethic, your curiosity. Then, ask them for a strong letter of recommendation.

If someone seems unsure or hesitant, ask someone else who can enthusiastically speak to your potential.

Your recommenders should be your advocates—people who believe in your future in science and can clearly express why you're a great fit for our program.

Gain valuable academic experience by teaching three Intro Biology lab sections during both the Fall and Spring semesters.

• Stipend: $16,250 per academic year

• Prep sessions: Held on Fridays

This award is offered during the Fall admissions process to highly qualified students.

• Amount: $3,750

• Renewable for a second year if requirements are met

Awarded to applicants with a strong background in genetics and a desire to conduct research involving genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, or bioinformatics as a major part of their thesis.

• Amount: $25,000 per year

• Renewable for a second year with satisfactory progress

• Note: This fellowship cannot be held concurrently with a Teaching Assistantship

Awarded to second-year students by their major advisor.

• Stipend: $6,300–$8,700, depending on the sponsoring institution (College of Charleston, SC-DNR, or NOAA)

• Renewable based on eligibility and availability

Typically awarded to second-year students through a competitive application process.

• Stipend: $6,300 per semester

• Offered by various departments at the College of Charleston

• Involves 20 hours/week of administrative work during the academic year

• Renewable based on eligibility and availability

Students are held to the Academic Catalog in effect during the academic year they were admitted.

With over 100 affiliated faculty, you'll have access to a wide range of research opportunities. Our faculty are associated with the College of Charleston, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SC-DNR), NOAA, The Citadel, and the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). You'll select a thesis advisor during your first year in the program.

More than 30 graduate-level marine biology courses are offered each year. Most courses include a laboratory component, providing hands-on experience alongside classroom learning.

Tuition and Fees are based on 18 credit hours during the first year. In the second year, costs are significantly reduced, as most students enroll in 6 credit hours or fewer during their third and fourth semesters.