UNITED STATES COAST GUARD ACADEMY · UNITED STATES
Marine and Environmental Sciences
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€0k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 0.5MUSD in scientific equipment accessible to MES majors
- 36-footMarine science research vessel available
- 3Areas of specialization: Environmental Science, Marine Science, Environmental Monitoring
The Marine and Environmental Sciences (MES) major explores the intricate connections between people and the natural world, encompassing land, oceans, and atmosphere. This interdisciplinary program combines oceanography, chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics to provide a robust technical education. The curriculum is designed to align closely with critical Coast Guard missions, including fisheries law enforcement, environmental response management, search and rescue, oil spill cleanup, and iceberg tracking. Students in the MES program engage in extensive hands-on laboratory work utilizing advanced technology and participate in fieldwork. Many of these practical experiences occur aboard the Marine Science research vessel, the _Michael J. Greeley_. The program also leverages the Academy's strategic location near the Thames River estuary for valuable field studies. Students have the flexibility to choose electives that delve into specialized areas such as toxicology, astronomy, polar studies, or to undertake independent research projects.
Curriculum
The MES major integrates various scientific disciplines. Students specialize in one of three concentrations starting in their sophomore year (3rd class) through their senior year (1st class).
- Year 1-2 (Foundation)
- Introduction to Marine and Environmental Science
- General Chemistry
- General Biology
- Calculus
- Physics
- Year 3-4 (Specialization)
- Oceanography
- Environmental Chemistry
- Ecology
- Data Analysis and Statistics
- Specialized courses in chosen concentration (Environmental Science, Marine Science, or Environmental Monitoring)
- Capstone Project
Careers
Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the Coast Guard and in civilian sectors, leveraging their expertise in marine and environmental sciences. The program aligns with various Coast Guard missions, and specialization in Geospatial Intelligence can further expand career opportunities.
- Fisheries Law Enforcement
- Environmental Response Management
- Search and Rescue Operations
- Oil Spill Cleanup Coordination
- Iceberg Tracking
- Marine Science Research
- Environmental Monitoring
- Geospatial Analysis
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the Marine and Environmental Sciences program?
- All admitted cadets at the United States Coast Guard Academy receive a full scholarship. This scholarship covers tuition, room, board, and medical care at no cost, in exchange for a service commitment upon graduation.
- What are the academic entry requirements for this program?
- Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background in science and mathematics. A High School Diploma or equivalent is required for admission.
- What career paths can I pursue after graduating with a Marine and Environmental Sciences degree?
- Graduates are prepared for roles within the Coast Guard and civilian sectors, including Fisheries Law Enforcement, Environmental Response Management, Search and Rescue Operations, and Marine Science Research. Specialization in Geospatial Intelligence can further expand career opportunities.
- How do I apply to the Marine and Environmental Sciences program?
- The application process involves creating an account, completing an online application, submitting transcripts and test scores, obtaining a nomination, undergoing medical and fitness exams, and potentially an interview. International applicants should review specific eligibility and nomination processes on the USCGA Admissions portal.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- Yes, all admitted cadets are awarded a full scholarship that covers tuition, room, board, and medical care. This scholarship is granted upon meeting the service requirements of the Academy.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentStrong academic background in science and mathematics is expected.
Admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy is highly competitive and requires meeting specific service requirements in addition to academic qualifications. International applicants should consult the Admissions office for detailed guidance.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition, room, board, and medical care are provided at no cost to cadets.
Tuition (home)Tuition, room, board, and medical care are provided at no cost to cadets.
LivingCadets receive a monthly stipend. Specific amounts may vary.
The United States Coast Guard Academy is a federal service academy. All admitted cadets receive a full scholarship covering tuition, room, board, and medical care. In return, cadets incur a service commitment upon graduation.
How to apply
1. Review EligibilityEnsure you meet the basic requirements for admission, including age, citizenship, and academic prerequisites. International applicants have specific eligibility criteria.
2. Create an AccountBegin the application process by creating an account on the USCGA Admissions portal.
3. Complete the ApplicationFill out the online application form, providing detailed information about your academic background, extracurricular activities, and personal experiences.
4. Submit Transcripts and Test ScoresProvide official high school transcripts and standardized test scores (e.g., SAT/ACT) as required. English proficiency test scores (like TOEFL or IELTS) may also be necessary for international applicants.
5. Obtain a NominationMost applicants require a nomination from a Member of Congress or the Vice President. International applicants may have alternative pathways or specific nomination processes. Details are available on the admissions website.
6. Undergo Medical and Fitness ExamsSuccessful candidates will be required to pass a thorough medical examination and physical fitness assessment.
7. Attend an InterviewAn interview may be part of the selection process.
8. Accept Offer of AdmissionIf offered admission, carefully review the terms and accept the offer by the specified deadline.
Scholarships
USCGA Full ScholarshipCovers tuition, room, board, and medical care
Accreditation
The Marine and Environmental Sciences major is accredited by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the Marine and Environmental Sciences program?
+
All admitted cadets at the United States Coast Guard Academy receive a full scholarship. This scholarship covers tuition, room, board, and medical care at no cost, in exchange for a service commitment upon graduation.
What are the academic entry requirements for this program?
+
Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background in science and mathematics. A High School Diploma or equivalent is required for admission.
What career paths can I pursue after graduating with a Marine and Environmental Sciences degree?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles within the Coast Guard and civilian sectors, including Fisheries Law Enforcement, Environmental Response Management, Search and Rescue Operations, and Marine Science Research. Specialization in Geospatial Intelligence can further expand career opportunities.
How do I apply to the Marine and Environmental Sciences program?
+
The application process involves creating an account, completing an online application, submitting transcripts and test scores, obtaining a nomination, undergoing medical and fitness exams, and potentially an interview. International applicants should review specific eligibility and nomination processes on the USCGA Admissions portal.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
Yes, all admitted cadets are awarded a full scholarship that covers tuition, room, board, and medical care. This scholarship is granted upon meeting the service requirements of the Academy.