Marine and Coastal Science

The B.S. in Marine and Coastal Science (MACS) is a cohort-based, interdisciplinary, and experiential program designed to provide students with the opportunity to engage in coastal and marine-focused research. Students and faculty at Western engage in research and education through a wide array of programs and partnerships, cooperating across fields of study, working in the lab and in the field.

Marine and Coastal Science is a joint program of the Shannon Point Marine Center (SPMC), and the Departments of Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, and Geology. We are advancing the state of knowledge about the oceans, coasts, and their ecosystems for the scientific community and for the communities we call home. Our students are learning to understand these systems, engage deeply with them, and become the creative problem solvers of tomorrow. The program brings together expertise on physical, chemical, geological, and biological concepts in marine science. Our courses allow students to explore and interpret fundamental observations about our coasts and oceans. Students develop an understanding of the process of science while gaining practical skills in an equitable and inclusive learning environment.

The program has a focus on place-based learning that emphasizes connections to people and communities. Each student begins the program with a short intensive research and learning experience at SPMC. All the preparatory and core courses for the major are offered on the main Bellingham campus. Many electives are taught on main campus, but some courses, depending on their field and lab needs, regularly visit SPMC in Anacortes, Washington. Other courses are offered entirely at SPMC, generally meeting all day, one day a week to cut down on commuting time and increase compatibility with other course schedules. Most students are based in Bellingham but short-term housing is available in dorms at SPMC.

Why Consider a Marine and Coastal Science major?

Study Marine Science across disciplines

The MACS program is a partnership between Shannon Point Marine Center and the WWU departments of Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Geology. Students have unique opportunities to study marine science in an environment of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Learn, work, and thrive together

Participants study marine science as a cohort, beginning with research experiences in their first or second year, continuing through their third year in a core course series, and culminating with a capstone experience.

Gain research experience

Students have opportunities to engage in mentored, hands-on research opportunities during their freshmen or sophomore year through a one-week, immersive study at Shannon Point Marine Center in Anacortes, Washington, about an hour south of Bellingham. Students have additional opportunities to participate in marine research in their upper-level MACS course work and through their capstone experience.

Access to marine labs and research vessels

Students spend time in the field, on oceanographic vessels, and in learning laboratories. 

Naturalist | Marine Scientist | Aquarist | Geological Survey Scientist | Water Quality Specialist | Shellfish Biologist | Hatchery Technician | Shoreline Manager | Marine Natural Resources Manager | Fisheries Observer | Marine Environmental Educator

• The Application for Admission
• $70 non-refundable application fee
• Official transcripts (an official transcript evaluation from an approved organization may also be required)
• Evidence of English language proficiency
• Declaration of Financial Responsibility
• An essay that helps the Admissions Committee understand your academic goals, related experiences and/or preparatory course work, and professional goals