This concentration is for those passionate about using scientific research and quantitative approaches to develop sustainable solutions that support ocean and coastal community health. Coursework prepares you to analyze strategies for coral resilience, educate stakeholders on conservation practices, enhance biodiversity preservation and address climate challenges.
With a strong emphasis on chemistry, biology and data-driven methodologies, this program equips you to pursue leadership roles in marine industries or advance your studies in disciplines such as:
- Biological, chemical and physical oceanography
- Coastal ecosystem science
- Coral reef science
- Marine biology
- Marine education
Marine and coastal science expertise you’ll develop
This program builds knowledge and skills in integrated ocean science with a focus on quantitative approaches. Courses teach you to evaluate marine decisions using data analysis and modeling, predict ocean system behaviors under different conditions and interpret visual data to inform solutions. You’ll also develop skills to effectively communicate co-produced work and its value to stakeholders.
As ocean sustainability becomes increasingly urgent, strong quantitative skills will be essential for understanding ecosystem functioning, biogeochemistry and ocean-climate interactions. You’ll explore how course knowledge applies to examining coral reef health, nutrient cycling in ocean systems, ocean dynamics, land-sea interactions and more.
How our two ocean futures degrees compare
ASU’s two bachelor’s degrees in ocean futures are STEM programs designed to train the next generation of ocean stewards. Both offer the flexibility to study from anywhere and provide optional immersive opportunities at ASU coastal locations, including the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences and the Center for Global Discovery and Conservation in Hawai’i. Your career goals can guide your decision on which program to choose.
- Bachelor’s in ocean futures
- This degree broadly explores the natural processes and human impacts shaping ocean health while addressing global marine challenges. It requires less advanced science coursework, including a lower level of chemistry than the concentration. You’ll also take stewardship and partnership courses to develop a practical understanding of the social and economic dimensions of ocean health.
- Bachelor’s in ocean futures – coastal and marine science
- This concentration emphasizes quantitative approaches to solving coastal and marine challenges. It includes more advanced chemistry coursework and a quantitative applications requirement. This option is ideal if you plan to pursue graduate studies, such as ASU’s online master’s in coastal and marine science and management.
Explore quantitative approaches to enhance ocean health and coastal resilience with an online Bachelor of Science in ocean futures with a concentration in coastal and marine science from Arizona State University. This expansive online marine biology program prepares you to develop evidence-based solutions that balance scientific, sustainable and ethical considerations. You’ll graduate with the skills to make an impact across marine science sectors or pursue graduate studies in STEM fields.
Your coursework includes biology, chemistry and quantitative applications (e.g., calculus, statistics, digital blue planet), to help you with ocean-related careers. This foundation supports your ocean futures studies in areas such as coral ecology, ocean conservation, ethnobotany, oceanography, marine invertebrate zoology, sustainable seafood and more. You’ll also have opportunities to explore the human impact on the environment and the ocean’s critical role in Earth’s future.
This program culminates in a workshop and capstone project, where you’ll research and make recommendations for approaches to a practical coastal or marine challenge.
The College of Global Futures faculty includes internationally renowned thought leaders and researchers. This group of global scholars brings together leading experts to develop transdisciplinary solutions for the world’s most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges. Our faculty members prepare students to create long-lasting change and contribute to a positive future for people and the planet.
The College of Global Futures is dedicated to building a sustainable and equitable future for the planet and society. These initiatives support ASU’s overarching commitment to innovation, research and delivering high-quality academic programs. ASU is recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report and receives accolades from other prestigious organizations.
for life below water, Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings, 2024
in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT
university in the U.S. in pursuit of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
“Cool Schools” for sustainability by Sierra Club for campus sustainability
best online bachelor’s programs
best global universities
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”