Nov 24, 2024  
2016-2017 APU Catalog 
    
2016-2017 APU Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Marine & Environmental Sciences, B.S.


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Human impacts on the environment are at the forefront of scientific, cultural, and political discourse.  The separate biological and physical sciences are now becoming integrated in order to address the complexity of local, regional, and global environmental issues. The B.S in Marine & Environmental Sciences (MES) provides you with both integration and specialization, addressing these challenges and participating in ground-breaking research. 


Every sector of the job market wants college graduates who can think critically, solve problems and develop new ideas. Building on Foundational Studies, you grow these skills through the MES Major Studies which include an Integrated Core and prepare you for the interdisciplinary nature of marine and environmental sciences. You are encouraged to distinguish your degree by completing one or more MES concentrations as your Self-Determined Studies.  Concentrations include Marine Biology, Earth & Climate Science, Ecology, Fisheries Ecology, Aquarium & Husbandry Science, and Applied Math.

MES graduates are prepared with knowledge, skills, and methodologies for graduate study.  They are also prepared to enter professional careers with private consulting firms, non-govermental organizations and public agencies at the state and federal levels.

As a graduate, you will earn a Bachelor of Science degree with demonstrated achievement in APU’s Essential Competencies:  Effective Communication; Critical Thinking; Cultural & Historical Perspective; Scientific Inquiry; and Ethical Engagement.

Foundational Studies (32-40 credits)


  • EC Written Communication** (WRIT 20100) (4)
  • EC Presentation & Media Literacy (from 10000-20000 level COMM) (3-4)
  • CT Critical Thinking (from 10000-20000 level CRIT) (3-4)
  • CT Computation** (MT 10100, BAM 10500, or higher placement) (0-4)
  • CH Intellectual Traditions (from 10000-20000 level PH/HI) (4)
  • CH Creative Endeavors (from 10000-20000 level HUM) (4)
  • CH Intercultural & Spiritual Understandings (from 10000-20000 level RS/CS) (3-4)
  • SI Biological/Physical Scientific Inquiry (from 10000-20000 level SC w/ lab) (4)
  • SI Social/Behavioral Scientific Inquiry (various) (3-4)
  • EE Social Responsibility (LS 10200) (2)
  • EE Personal Responsibility (from 10000-20000 OS/PE or BAM 20400) (1-2)

                       [†  Foundational Studies requirement satisfied by Major Studies]

                       [ **  Minimum grade of ‘C’ (defined as C+, C, C-) must be earned]

Self-Determined Studies (varies)


The MES degree is designed particularly to allow students to choose their own specialization as Self-Determined Studies.  Students are encouraged to distinguish their degree by selecting one or more of the MES concentrations.  Students may also distinguish their studies taking more electives in the sciences or with a minor, interdisciplinary concentration, or Eco League exchange.

Minimum Graduation Credit Hour Requirement: 128


MES Concentration Options (28 credits)


A minimum of 28 credits is required to complete a concentration.  Within each concentration there are required courses (20-24 credits) and elective options.  Courses taken for one concentration can double-count for other concentrations.  Students can complete concentration coursework through an Eco League exchange (as approved by an academic advisor). Many courses listed within concentrations will have pre-requisites.  Students are responsible for ensuring that pre-requisites have been met. Students are strongly encouraged to choose practicum experiences and senior projects relevant to their selected concentrations.   

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