UAS Marine Biology Bachelor’s listed #5 in College Values Online Top 20 National Ranking

College Values Online has ranked the University of Alaska Southeast as one of the best values for a bachelor’s in marine biology degree program. The ranking takes into account affordability, accreditation, and rankings in major publications like U.S. News and World Report. College Values Online references compensation research organization PayScale, which lists the median wage for marine biologists at $51,538 per year. By attaining a marine biology degree, students are prepared for entry-level positions in marine science fields as well as continued studies at the graduate level.

The location of the university in the Tongass National Forest provides students with a natural laboratory that includes extensive marine habitat, rainforest, wetlands, and ice fields -- all within walking distance of the classrooms. “Our marine laboratory is a 15 minute walk from the main campus, so while you are taking courses towards your degree program on the main campus, you can also dive into marine biology courses that utilize the nearshore environment of the Inside Passage,” noted Dr. Sherry Tamone, Professor of Biology and Chair of Natural Sciences at UAS.

UAS employs top-notch faculty in its science programs. Biology and Marine Biology students benefit from faculty actively involved in many disciplines, including marine ecology, marine mammalogy, phycology, comparative physiology, neurobiology, population genetics and conservation biology. UAS students enjoy small classes and unique programs like URECA - Undergraduate Research, Experiential & Creative Activities. This enables students in sciences as well as creative areas to design and implement their own extra-curricular plan, mentored by UAS faculty, and includes up to $2,500 in funding.

Professor of Biology, Dr. David Tallmon remarked, “We are proud of the national attention our Marine Biology program has received. It is the result of years of hard work and achievement by faculty, staff, and students.”

Learn more about UAS Biology and Marine Biology degree programs, and explore other natural sciences. Academic advising for science programs is available by calling (907) 796-6200.