Marine Biology Minor

Studies of the marine environment are relevant to many contemporary environmental issues and problems central to understanding earth-system evolution, dynamics, climate and sustainability. The minor in Marine Biology combines courses related specifically to marine science from several Dornsife College departments or programs. USC’s location along the Pacific Ocean and the unique facilities at the USC Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island provide superb access for students to learn outside of traditional classroom venues. Students will learn about the biology, evolution and ecology of organisms that inhabit marine environments and the ecological and physical processes linking them. This program is an appropriate start for students who are seeking a focus in marine science or who are interested in broadening their base of knowledge about marine biology, earth sciences or environmental science.

The minor consists of 24 units of course work. At least 16 must be upper-division and unique to the minor. Courses required by the student’s major or general education (GE) requirements may not be applied toward the minor. Students must earn a letter grade of C- or better in all coursework used for the minor. Prior to declaring the minor, students must have completed the requirement for BISC 120Lg  or BISC 121Lg  or BISC 103Lgx . Basic chemistry, such as CHEM 103Lgx  or CHEM 105aLg  and CHEM 105bL , is strongly recommended. Students are encouraged enroll in at least one field-based course. Courses may be substituted with approval of the minor in Marine Biology program director, and this approval must be filed with the Office of Academic Records and Registrar.