Marine biologists study marine organisms and their habitats and ecosystems. They research the behaviors of organisms and how they interact with their environments. To become a marine biologist, one can specialize in a particular organism, behavior, or ecosystem. A basic science degree is recommended, with courses in chemistry, physics, biology, math, and engineering. Graduate school and internships allow one to focus their studies, though they are not required. Getting a job as a marine biologist requires years of school and results in relatively low pay initially.

1. Marine Biologist

2. Marine Biologist
What they do
How to begin a career
Why this is interesting

3. A Doctor of the Ocean
They study the creatures that live
in the oceans. Their habitats and
ecological environments. They
also research the behaviors or
organisms and how they interact
with their environment
What they do

4. Specializations
Different fields in Marine Biology
Specializations can be based on a particular
organism, behavior, or ecosystem. Marine
biologists may choose to study a single species.
Example: clams, or all clams that are native to a
climate or region

5. Biotechnologist
• Medical research
• Biofuel research

6. Specific Species Biologist
• Shell fish
• Whales
• Clams

7. Shark Researcher
• Behavior
• Diet
• Habitat
• Survival

8. Education
How to become a Marine Biologist

9. College
Basic science degree is
recommended
• Chemistry, physics, biology, math and
engineering are all very important
• Combination degrees are highly
recommended

10. Graduate School and Internships
Not required but
recommended
Chance to
narrow field of
choice and focus

11. Now What?

12. Get the Job
• Years of school
• Low pay!