Marine Science Scholars Program
Prepare yourself for a career in marine science in a rigorous course of study that includes a strong base in the liberal arts, the broad training in life sciences that characterizes a major in Biology or Environmental Science, and the special opportunities for study of the marine environment and its living resources provided by Western’s extraordinary facilities and programs at its Shannon Point Marine Center (SPMC). This is a course of study that will provide you with the strongest base possible for the marine science profession.
Marine Science Scholars will participate in a special program of study in the freshman and sophomore years leading to the marine specialization within the Biology or Environmental Science majors. Applicants to Western selected as Marine Science Scholars will take a two-week 4-credit field and laboratory-intensive course at the Shannon Point Marine Center in September, prior to the start of Fall Quarter. During the Winter and Spring Quarters of the freshman year and all three quarters of the sophomore year, Marine Science Scholars will work with Western’s marine scientists on special problem 1-cr seminars on topical issues such as red tides, ocean acidification, and food web dynamics.
All students selected to participate in the Marine Science Scholars Program will receive a substantial reduction in non-resident tuition during their four years at Western. Housing at Shannon Point Marine Center during the pre-Fall quarter course will be provided by the marine center at no cost to the Marine Science Scholars. Shannon Point will also cover one-half of meal costs during the course. The course tuition will be covered as part of the regular Fall Quarter tuition charges, although students who register for more than 14 credits during the regular Fall Quarter session will be charged for any extra credits.
Marine Science Scholars = Value Added! Value added to your education and value added to the degree you will earn.
Selection is based on information provided within the application for admission. Interested students should indicate Biology or Environmental Science as an academic interest on their application for admission and will be sent an invitation to apply for the Marine Science Scholars Program this Winter. For more information or questions, please contact Colin Watrin or call (360) 650-7950.