Marine Policy and Management

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PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Advocate for Ocean Health and Solve Environmental Challenges

The Marine Policy and Management degree program provides you with the interdisciplinary expertise to tackle pressing marine environmental challenges like overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change. This flexible online marine program allows you to balance your studies with other commitments while gaining in-depth knowledge of marine ecosystems and the policymaking process. As a leader in climate-ready degrees, Unity graduates are uniquely prepared for impactful careers in government, NGOs, international organizations, and the private sector, where they will lead efforts to protect marine biodiversity and ensure the sustainable management of marine resources.

CAREER OUTLOOK

What Can I Do With a Master’s in Marine Policy and Management?

80 K

Environmental Scientists and Specialists jobs in the U.S., 2023*

$ 79 K

Environmental Scientists and Specialists average pay, 2023*

+ 8 %

Estimated U.S. job growth for Environmental Scientists and Specialists jobs through 2033*

*Source: O*Net/U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unity Environmental University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.

In the MPS in Marine Policy and Management Program You’ll Learn To:

Apply marine ecological principles to conserve biodiversity, restore habitats, and manage marine resources in the face of environmental challenges
Evaluate the effectiveness of local and international marine policies and legal frameworks in promoting sustainable resource management
Formulate evidence-based marine resource management strategies that integrate ecological data, socio-economic considerations, and sustainability practices
Communicate marine policy issues effectively, fostering collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, communities, and industry leaders
Advocate for adaptive marine policies that address climate change impacts to protect biodiversity and safeguard coastal communities

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What You Will Study

Marine Policy and Management
Course Examples

Dynamics of Marine Ecosystems

This course explores marine ecosystem interactions, emphasizing temporal and spatial scales. Topics include coastal and pelagic environments, ocean circulation, global oscillation patterns, plankton distribution, and climate change. You will review scientific literature and design a research project on ecosystem dynamics and marine conservation.

Photograph taken half under water and half above water.

Sustainable Management of Marine Resources

This course covers marine ecosystem structure and function, basic biology, and field techniques for sustainable management. It addresses global and regional marine conservation challenges, emphasizing sound science for successful management strategies. You will design and analyze research projects, evaluate threats, and interpret data for effective solutions.

A woman in a helmet charts information on a beach.

Climate Dynamics

In this course you will cover the science of climate change, its human causes, and societal impacts. You will learn to communicate the emerging science, develop solutions, and examine strategies for mitigation, adaptation, and resilience of natural and human communities.

Top down view of the wave breaking over the sea.

FAQ

Learn More About Degrees and Careers in Marine Policy and Management

Marine Policy and Management is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on addressing critical issues affecting marine ecosystems. It encompasses the development, analysis, and implementation of policies and management strategies aimed at conserving marine resources and promoting sustainable practices. This field integrates scientific research with policy-making to tackle challenges such as overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change impacts on marine and coastal environments.

Earning an MPS in Marine Policy and Management from Unity empowers graduates to work across various sectors, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), environmental consulting firms, international organizations, and academic institutions. They play a crucial role in shaping policies that protect marine biodiversity, manage marine resources sustainably, and ensure the resilience of marine ecosystems.

The Master of Professional Science in Marine Policy and Management prepares students tobecome experts in the sustainable management of marine resources. Through aninterdisciplinary curriculum, students will develop effective management plans, criticallyevaluate marine policies and legal frameworks, and formulate evidence-based sustainablestrategies grounded in scientific research. Emphasis is placed on communicating complexmarine policy issues and fostering collaborative solutions among diverse entities.Additionally, students will learn to advocate for adaptive policies that address the impacts ofclimate change on ocean systems. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers ingovernmental and non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and industry, wherethey will lead efforts to protect marine biodiversity and ensure the sustainability of marineenvironments.

Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Thanks to our promise to keep tuition flat through 2030, you won’t be burdened with unexpected increases or fees.

Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here.

The timeframe for completion is up to you! Enroll in 6 credits per term and complete the program within just one year. Alternatively, opt for part-time study by taking one course at a time. Whichever path you choose, we’re here to support your educational journey every step of the way. Contact your concierge or advisor to create your personalized plan.

Professional Masters Core: 15 credits

PROF 505 Strategic Management of Innovation
PROF 510 Communication for Environmental Professionals
PROF 515 Ethical Practice and Policy
PROF 590 Capstone I
PROF 690 Capstone II

Major Program Core: 15 credits

MARI 505 Dynamics of Marine Ecosystems
MARI 605 Sustainable Management of Marine Resources
MARI 630 Economics and Policy of Marine Resources
MARI 633 Coastal Zone Resilience and Management
SUST 510 Climate Dynamics

For course requirements and a better look into your program, view our full course catalog. Then apply online for free to get started.

The Master of Professional Science (MPS) is a graduate degree designed to combine scientific knowledge with practical skills relevant to the workforce. Unlike traditional science degrees, the MPS emphasizes hands-on experience and professional development, preparing students for careers that require both expertise in science and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world contexts. MPS programs focus on a range of skills that are directly applicable to the workplace:

Project Management: Students learn to plan, execute, and manage projects, often in scientific or environmental settings.
Communication: Emphasis is placed on effectively communicating complex scientific ideas to diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public.
Policy Analysis: Students gain the ability to understand and analyze policies related to their field, making them valuable assets in governmental and organizational decision-making processes.
Technical Proficiency: Students develop a range of specialized skills and techniques relevant to their discipline, such as animal training, conservation advocacy, environmental monitoring, or other tools essential to their field.

The MS degree is a traditional graduate program focused on deepening scientific understanding through research and academic study.

Master’s in Marine Policy and Management Academic Information

Degree Requirements and Courses Needed

The marine policy and management degree requires 30 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. View our full course catalog for a better look into your program. Then apply online for free to get started.

Realizing Your Potential. Protecting Your Planet.

Why Unity Distance Education?

High Educational Value

Nationally recognized educational quality at an affordable price.

Sustainability Core

Committed to sustainable practices to prepare for a future of environmental awareness.

Personalized Guidance

Dedicated to turning career and academic aspirations into tangible achievements.

Accelerated Path

Fast-track your Master’s degree and finish your program in as little as one year.

Inspiring Faculty

Connect with experts who share your passion for working in the industry.

Future Success

Ranked #1 independent university in the U.S. by the Social Mobility Index.

Multiple Start Dates

With up to 5 terms a year, you can take a break without jeopardizing financial aid.

Learning Flexibility

Balance life, work, and education by studying when and where you want

Real Students, Real Impact

Real Students, Real Impact

“…Unity is special because it lets me be able to be a student, while working full time…”

Jade M.
Unity Master's Student

Read Jade’s Full Quote

Jade M.
Unity Master's Student

“In my opinion Unity is special because it lets me be able to be a student, while working full time and be able to spend time with my family.”

Learn from Leaders

Learn from Leaders

PhD in Ecology, MS in Marine Biology, BS in Biology

Dr. Bruce Stephen
Global Expert in Ocean Ecology and Research

Learn More About Dr. Stephen

Dr. Bruce Stephen
Global Expert in Ocean Ecology and Research

Bruce has a B.S. in biology from SUNY Cortland, a M.S. in marine biology from UMass Dartmouth, and a Ph.D. in ecology from the University of Nebraska Lincoln. He has taught biology for the last eighteen years at Southeast Community College in Lincoln, NE and currently spends summers teaching younger students at the Acadia Institute of Oceanography on MDI in Maine. That same group runs winter programs that have taken him and groups of students to Jamaica, Bermuda, and Belize during winter break.

Before his Ph.D., he spent five years as a research associate at McLean Hospital with the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Program. He has published scientific articles with topics ranging from fish physiology to drug use among college students. His main area of research these days is the ecology of snails.

He is also an avid musician, playing drums with a band for many years. If you hunt, you may be able to dig up some of it, there are at least two pieces of music out there in the old fashion vinyl medium.

Learn from Leaders

PhD in Economics

Dr. Shana McDermott
Global Expert in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics

Learn More About Dr. McDermott

Dr. Shana McDermott
Global Expert in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics

Dr. Shana McDermott holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Wyoming, where she specialized in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics and Industrial Organization. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Central Florida in Economics and Statistics. Dr. McDermott’s research has made significant contributions to understanding the economic impacts of environmental and sustainability policies, earning her international recognition and multiple awards. Her work, which includes over 300 citations, frequently addresses the socioeconomic effects of biological invasions, the economic costs associated with natural disasters, such as wildfires, and the unintended consequences of climate change and energy policies.

Her publications in leading peer-reviewed journals reflect her ability to integrate economic analysis with environmental science to produce actionable insights for policy and management. A highlight of her interdisciplinary approach is her collaboration on a UN-sponsored assessment of invasive species, which has influenced global policy recommendations. Dr. McDermott is also a dedicated educator interested in courses that blend theoretical policy concepts with practical environmental and sustainability applications. Her teaching has consistently been well-received, marked by high student evaluations and a commitment to student engagement and learning. Beyond academia, Dr. McDermott is dedicated to community service, working with local environmental conservation groups and contributing to sustainable practices at a grassroots level.

Learn from Leaders

EdD in Leadership and Innovation, MEd in Educational Leadership, BA in Government and Leadership

Michael Peel
Global Expert in Community-Driven Sustainability Planning and Equitable Climate Action

More Info

Michael Peel
Global Expert in Community-Driven Sustainability Planning and Equitable Climate Action

Dr. Michael Peel is a member of the Distance Education Graduate Faculty team. He received an EdD in Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University, an MEd in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, and a BA in Government and Leadership from Claremont McKenna College. Dr. Peel’s research and teaching interests focus on collaborative climate justice and action, equitable community engagement, and sustainability project implementation. He also specializes in capacity building and planning methods. For his mixed-methods dissertation and study, he developed a toolkit titled the “Climate Justice Collaborative Toolkit” that is designed to be a holistic and action-based framework for improving community engagement and equity processes to increase intersectional climate justice-based outcomes including community capacity-building efforts. Dr. Peel has 17 years of experience in community-driven climate planning, including a series of applied and collaborative climate educational programs in California, Arizona, and elsewhere where he implemented community-based climate courses for community colleges in partnership with the EPA, and led a coalition that successfully competed for federal funds for an energy conservation jobs program supporting low-income individuals through the California Energy Commission’s Clean Energy Workforce Training Program. Dr. Peel’s experience conducting research and planning has been done in partnership with a diverse range of community partners to advance equitable, resilient climate solutions through sustainability projects and programs. Dr. Peel is a proud parent to his daughter Emma with his partner Dr. Cassandra Peel. He enjoys reading, running, film, music, and especially time with family, including his dogs Jesse and Rudie.