Locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally there is a revolution in interest in marine systems and their interaction with the structure, process and functioning of atmospheric and terrestrial systems. Changes in marine systems and processes are inevitable, as are the accompanying sociopolitical, socioeconomic, demographic and institutional changes that continue to provide opportunities and challenges for managers of marine resources.
Marine and coastal issues are technically and politically complex, involving many interests, perspectives, and stakeholders. To deal effectively with these issues, marine resource managers need a broad-based background in both natural and social sciences. Marine resource managers of the present and future must be capable of generating, identifying, requesting, analyzing and synthesizing scientific and practical information into meaningful management decisions and policy and management recommendations.
Our coursework is founded on the core oceanography courses in CEOAS and designed to include courses in the natural sciences, the social sciences (including but not limited to marine law and policy, education, economics, and culture). We have five, flexible, interdependent areas of focus:
Coastal processes, hazards, and climate change
Marine science education and engagement
Fisheries and aquaculture
Pollution, invasive species, and water quality
Marine industry (transportation, renewable energy)
