The biological oceanography concentration in the Ocean & Earth Sciences B.S. degree is designed for students considering employment or graduate work in the field of biological oceanography. Biological oceanography is the study of biological processes in the oceans, i.e., marine organisms and how they are affected by the physics, chemistry, biology and geology of the oceans. Students in the biological oceanography concentration are strongly encouraged to minor in biology by taking the appropriate 300- and 400-level classes in the biology department.
Program Highlights
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The program provides students with the necessary training for employment with a B.S. in a wide range of federal, state, local and private venues
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The program provides students with the necessary background for graduate work in oceanography, marine sciences, and environmental sciences
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Small class sizes at the upper division level means students work closely with faculty in their discipline as a part of their undergraduate experience
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The program is unique in the state of Virginia
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Research and study cellular molecules and organelles to understand cell function and organization.
Agricultural Technicians
Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals. Prepare specimens or record data to assist scientists in biology or related life science experiments.
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
Study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. May use geological, physics, and mathematics knowledge in exploration for oil, gas, minerals, or underground water; or in waste disposal, land reclamation, or other environmental problems. May study the Earth's internal composition, atmospheres, oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. Includes mineralogists, crystallographers, paleontologists, stratigraphers, geodesists, and seismologists.
Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses in biological sciences. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Requirements
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Students must first declare the Ocean and Earth science major, biological oceanography concentration, with the chief departmental advisor (CDA).
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Entering students should be prepared to take MATH 211 (Calculus I), although students with math deficiencies can take remedial math classes as needed (e.g., MATH 102M, 103M, 162M, 163 or 166, as needed; note that all of these courses will not necessarily be required before taking MATH 211; please consult the catalog or CDA for details).
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Featured Courses
Core course for ocean and earth sciences majors that examines the processes linking the Earth's atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere into an interactive system. Prerequisites: BIOL 121N or BIOL 136N, BIOL 122N or BIOL 137N, CHEM 121N, CHEM 122N, and OEAS 111N, all with a grade of C or better.
Interdisciplinary investigation of selected sites in Southeast Virginia that includes field sampling, sample analyses, data interpretation and integration, and group report preparation and presentations. Focuses on development of research questions and site selection, field sampling, sample analyses and interpretation. Oral presentations of results will be made by each student. Prerequisites: OEAS 306 and OEAS 310; CHEM 123N and CHEM 124N, BIOL 123N or OEAS 303; PHYS 112N or PHYS 232N; MATH 212; STAT 310; all prerequisite courses must be passed with a grade of C or better.
Interdisciplinary investigation of selected sites in Southeast Virginia that includes field sampling, sample analyses, data interpretation and integration, and group report preparation and presentations. Focuses on site selection and evaluation mapping, sampling, and sample analyses. Oral presentations of results will be made by each student. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: a grade of C or better in ENGL 211C or ENGL 221C or ENGL 231C; OEAS 441.
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.