Tropical Marine Ecosystem Management Degree Track

Corals Corals
Master of Professional Science

Nearshore benthic ecosystems common to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide such as coral reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves are facing unprecedented threats due to climate change and human activity.

The Tropical Marine Ecosystem Management MPS track prepares students to help confront these threats with advanced training in the theoretical and practical aspects of tropical marine ecology. Students in this track receive training in field methods and techniques, Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing of shallow water marine environments, taxonomy and identification of common marine organisms, scientific diving, and small boat handling. This degree is excellent preparation for technical positions in marine ecosystem science and management at state and federal agencies, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector.

Prerequisites:

Bachelor’s degree in any field; one year of general biology and labs, one year of general chemistry, at least one semester of calculus, and nine credits in natural science. Research in these fields may, in some cases, substitute for coursework

Course topics:

Tropical marine ecology, statistics, environmental law, field techniques, Geographical Information System (GIS), environmental planning, population modeling

Job titles:

  • Research Operations Specialist - NOAA
  • Marine Scientist
  • Biological Science Technician - National Park Service
  • Reef Injury Prevention and Response Technician
  • Maritime Industry and Coastal Construction Impacts Coordinator 
  • Senior Research Associate
  • Restoration Program Coordinator

FAQ's

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  • Why this track is important?

    The Master of Professional Science Degree in Tropical Marine Ecosystem Management trains in the theoretical aspects of tropical marine ecology and the practical aspects needed to begin a career in this field. Theory focuses on nearshore, benthic ecosystems common to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide (coral reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves) and emphasizes threats facing these ecosystems. Practical aspects of the course include field methods and techniques, taxonomy and identification of common vertebrates, invertebrates, algae and marine plants, GIS and remote sensing of shallow water marine environments, scientific diving (through the American Academy of Underwater Sciences), and small boat handling (through the Department of the Interior’s Motorboat Operator Certification Course). This degree is excellent preparation for technical positions in marine conservation and management and marine ecosystem science at one of a number of state and federal agencies, institutions, and NGOs.

  • Why Miami?

    Studying tropical marine ecology at the University of Miami offers a range of unique benefits due to its location, academic offerings, research opportunities, and more. The campus is located near diverse marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves. This proximity to these environments provides students with easy access a range of ecosystems and species to study firsthand. Additionally, the expert faculty and advanced research performed at the Rosenstiel school provide students with unique opportunities to participate in field studies, collect data, conduct experiments, and contribute to ongoing research projects focused on tropical marine ecosystems. The university's connections to local research organizations, government agencies, and conservation groups can help you build a strong professional network within the field of tropical marine ecology. 

  • What can students do with this degree?

    The combination of scientific knowledge, practical skills, and real-world experience gained from the MPS program in Tropical Marine Ecology and Management at the University of Miami can prepare graduates for a wide range of roles in marine science, conservation, and management. It's important for students to explore their interests and align their career goals with the opportunities available in this dynamic field.

  • What makes this track unique?

    The Tropical Marine Ecology and Management track integrate aspects of biology, ecology, policy, economics, and more to provide students with a holistic understanding of the challenges inherent in researching and managing marine ecosystems.  As such, students leave our program with both a theoretical understanding of these ecosystems as well as experience in practical skills, including the use of field methodologies and software. Overall, the combination of theoretical understanding, practical skills, interdisciplinary knowledge, and a focus on real-world challenges makes the Tropical Marine Ecology and Management track unique and potentially very appealing to individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in marine science and conservation.

Track Leader

Claire Dell

Tropical Marine Ecosystem Management Track

cxd1311@miami.edu

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After obtaining her master's degree in aquatic bioscience from Glasgow University, Claire spent several years working on Caribbean coral reefs. She then completed her Ph.D. in marine ecology with Mark Hay at Georgia Tech. Her research focused on promoting the key ecological connections and species in coral reefs. This was with the aim of improving resiliency, sound management and sustainable use of these ecosystems. Since the pandemic, Claire has researched the efficacy of art and active learning interventions to improve engagement and content mastery in non-major science courses. Claire’s work has taken her all over the world including Honduras, the Dutch Antilles, the Cayman Islands, Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Australia, and South Korea.

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Plan Of Study Grid

Fall Course Title Credit Hours
MBE 615 Tropical Marine Ecology 3
RSM 600 Introduction to Research Diving Techniques * 1 3
RSM 664 or 667

Scientific Small Boating * 1

or Motorboat Operator Certificate Course

 2
RSM 612 or EVR 624 Statistics for Marine Scientists
or Statistics and Data Analysis for Environmental Science and Policy		 3
EVR 620, 720,
or 616		 Environmental Law and Policy 2 
or Coastal Law and Policy
or Ocean Policy 		 3
RSM 700 Research Ethics 0
Credit Hours 14
Spring Course Title Credit Hours
MBE 621 Field Techniques and Instrumentation in Tropical Marine Ecology 3 3
EVR 660
& EVR 661 or 610		 Introduction to Marine Geographic Information Systems 1,
and Introduction to Marine Geographic Information Systems - Laboratory or Environmental Planning and the Environmental Impact Statement		 3
EVR 610 Environmental Planning and the Environmental Impact Statement 4 3
MBE 746 Marine Population Biology: Processes And Modeling 4 3
Credit Hours 12
Summer Course Title Credit Hours
MBE 805 MPS Internship 5 2-6
Credit Hours 4
Total Credit Hours 30

*  Enrollment is strongly encouraged. May be substituted for another elective with the approval of their academic advisor. 

1  Can be taken in Fall or Spring

2  ​​​Additional Policy Options:  EVR 631 EVR 710

3  Additional Field Options: MBE 614, MBE 637, MBE 644, MBE 641. Students may choose another field course in MBE or EVR with the approval of their academic advisor.

4  Suggested Options: MBE 638, MBE 623, MBE 618, EVR 634, EVR 629, RSM 601. Students may choose other electives with the approval of their academic advisor and/or course instructor if special permission is required.

5  Enrollment in 2 - 6 internship credits required during a student's time in MPS. Completion of less than 2 internship credits must be approved by MPS Director. Students may enroll in more than 6 internship credits with the approval of the Program Director. Typically 2 semesters are needed to complete all aspects of the internship phase of MPS.

Elective Options

Students may request elective courses with the consent of their Academic Advisor. Refer to the course schedules for a list of classes available on the Rosenstiel School campus. The course offerings may vary from semester to semester. For more details, visit the UM Academic Bulletin.

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