Top 10 Marine Biology Programs in Florida

Curated by Kory White · Fractional CRO, CRO Syndicate

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📅 Published Jun 26, 2026 · Updated Jun 26, 2026 · 9 min read

Direct Answer

The University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science is the #1 pick for its world-class research facilities, direct access to the Gulf Stream, and a $50 million Marine Technology Center. The University of Florida's School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences is the runner-up, offering a more affordable in-state tuition path (approx.

$6,380/year for Florida residents) with a strong fisheries and conservation focus. This ranking is for students, career switchers, and professionals seeking rigorous, hands-on programs that deliver measurable career outcomes in marine biology, oceanography, and coastal management.

How We Ranked These

We evaluated programs based on five weighted criteria: research output and faculty expertise (30%), access to marine environments and field stations (25%), graduate employment rates and industry connections (20%), program cost and scholarship availability (15%), and specialized facilities like vessels, labs, and aquariums (10%).

Data was sourced from NOAA, National Science Foundation grant records, U.S. News & World Report (2025 rankings), and Florida Board of Education tuition data. We excluded programs with fewer than 50 enrolled marine science majors or those lacking a dedicated marine field station.

All costs reflect 2026–2027 academic year estimates.

flowchart TD A[Interested in Marine Biology in Florida?] --> B{Primary Interest?} B -->|Research & Oceanography| C[University of Miami Rosenstiel] B -->|Conservation & Fisheries| D[University of Florida] B -->|Marine Mammals & Aquaculture| E[Florida Atlantic University] B -->|Coastal Ecology & Policy| F[University of South Florida] C --> G{Need Scholarships?} G -->|Yes| H[Consider FSU Coastal & Marine Lab] G -->|No| I[Apply to UM Rosenstiel] D --> J{In-State Tuition?} J -->|Yes| K[UF School of Forest, Fisheries] J -->|No| L[Consider New College of Florida] E --> M{Hands-On Facilities?} M -->|Yes| N[FAU Harbor Branch] M -->|No| O[Check FIU Marine Sciences] F --> P{Policy Focus?} P -->|Yes| Q[USF College of Marine Science] P -->|No| R[Look at Eckerd College]

1. University of Miami Rosenstiel School 🏆 BEST OVERALL

University of Miami Rosenstiel School

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The Rosenstiel School is the flagship marine biology program in Florida, with a $150 million annual research budget and a fleet of research vessels including the R/V F.G. Walton Smith. It offers BS, MS, and PhD degrees in Marine Biology and Oceanography, with 80+ faculty specializing in everything from coral reef ecology to deep-sea exploration.

The school’s location on Virginia Key provides immediate access to the Gulf Stream, Biscayne Bay, and the Florida Reef Tract, enabling daily field work. Tuition for the 2026–2027 year is approximately $58,000/year for out-of-state students, but 70% of graduate students receive full funding via research assistantships.

This program is ideal for students targeting careers in academic research, NOAA, or private oceanography firms. The Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy offers a unique dual-degree track combining marine science with environmental law. Use the UM Rosenstiel Graduate Application Portal to apply by December 1 for priority funding.

The school’s Marine Technology Center, opened in 2024, houses $20 million in autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) from Teledyne Marine.

2. University of Florida School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences

University of Florida School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences

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The UF School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences (SFFGS) offers a BS in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences and an MS in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, with a strong emphasis on conservation biology and aquaculture. The program leverages the UF Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience in St.

Augustine, a $12 million research facility focusing on marine genomics and neurobiology. In-state tuition is $6,380/year, making it the most affordable top-tier option for Florida residents. Out-of-state tuition is $28,658/year.

This program is best for students focused on fisheries management, aquaculture, or marine conservation policy. The Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Graduate Program requires a 2.8 GPA minimum for admission, with GRE scores optional for 2027 applicants. Use the UF Office of Admissions online system; the priority deadline is January 15.

The program’s Aquaculture Lab produces 500,000+ juvenile fish annually for restoration projects.

3. Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory

Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory

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FSU’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory (FSUCML) in St. Teresa offers a BS in Biological Science with a Marine Biology track and an MS/PhD in Oceanography. The lab sits on 70 acres along the Gulf of Mexico, with direct access to Apalachicola Bay and the Florida Panhandle’s seagrass beds.

Research focuses on oyster reef restoration, sea turtle ecology, and harmful algal blooms. Tuition is $5,616/year for in-state, $21,683/year for out-of-state.

This program suits students who want a small-campus experience (under 200 students at the lab) with heavy field work. The FSUCML Research Vessel Apalachee is a 45-foot vessel used for estuarine sampling. Apply via FSU Graduate Admissions by February 1 for fall entry.

The lab’s Oyster Recovery Project has restored 50 acres of reef since 2020.

4. University of South Florida College of Marine Science

University of South Florida College of Marine Science

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USF’s College of Marine Science in St. Petersburg is a standalone graduate college offering MS and PhD degrees in Marine Science, with concentrations in biological oceanography, chemical oceanography, and geological oceanography. The college occupies the **USF St.

Petersburg campus on Tampa Bay, with a $40 million research vessel, the R/V Weatherbird II. Research highlights include red tide forecasting using NASA satellite data and deep-sea coral mapping. Tuition is $8,350/year for in-state, $21,126/year** for out-of-state.

This program is ideal for students pursuing oceanographic research or coastal policy careers. The USF Marine Science Graduate Program requires three letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose; the deadline is March 1. The college partners with NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science for joint research projects.

5. Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute

Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute

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FAU’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) in Fort Pierce offers BS, MS, and PhD programs in Marine Science, with a unique focus on marine biotechnology and ocean engineering. The institute operates the R/V Oceanus, a 135-foot research vessel, and the Aquaculture Development Park, a $10 million facility for sustainable seafood production.

Tuition is $6,393/year for in-state, $21,655/year for out-of-state.

This program is best for students interested in marine drug discovery or aquaculture technology. The Harbor Branch Graduate Program uses the FAU Graduate College application; the priority deadline is April 1. The institute’s Marine Biomedical and Biotechnology Research Program has identified 10+ novel compounds from sponges for cancer research.

6. University of North Florida Department of Biology

University of North Florida Department of Biology

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UNF’s Department of Biology offers a BS in Biology with a Marine Biology concentration and an MS in Biology with marine ecology tracks. The program uses the UNF Coastal Biology Field Station on the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, a 73,000-acre protected area.

Tuition is $6,380/year for in-state, $20,448/year for out-of-state.

This program is suited for undergraduates seeking small class sizes (average 25 students per lab) and direct faculty mentorship. The UNF Marine Biology Research Lab focuses on salt marsh ecology and diamondback terrapin conservation. Apply via UNF Undergraduate Admissions by August 1 for fall; the Honors Program offers $2,000–$5,000 scholarships.

7. Florida Institute of Technology Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences

Florida Institute of Technology Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences

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Florida Tech’s Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences in Melbourne offers BS, MS, and PhD degrees in Marine Biology, with a strong engineering integration. The program uses the FIT Marine Lab on the Indian River Lagoon, a 156-mile estuary, and the R/V Delphinus, a 60-foot research vessel.

Tuition is $43,246/year for all students, but 90% of graduate students receive tuition waivers.

This program is ideal for students who want to combine marine biology with ocean engineering for careers in offshore energy or marine robotics. The FIT Graduate Admissions deadline is rolling, but February 1 is recommended for assistantships. The Marine Science and Technology Research Lab uses LIDAR for seagrass mapping.

8. Eckerd College Marine Science Program 💎 BEST VALUE

Eckerd College Marine Science Program

Visit site →

Eckerd College’s Marine Science Program in St. Petersburg offers a BS in Marine Science with concentrations in biology, chemistry, and geology. The program is part of a private liberal arts college with 1,800 students, ensuring small classes (average 15 students).

Tuition is $49,620/year, but 98% of students receive financial aid, with average grants of $32,000/year. The college owns the R/V Kingfisher, a 45-foot vessel for Tampa Bay research.

This program is the best value for students seeking a private college experience with high faculty interaction and guaranteed research opportunities. The Eckerd Marine Science Summer Research Program pays students $4,000 for 10 weeks of field work. Apply via Eckerd Admissions by November 15 for early decision.

9. University of West Florida Department of Biology

University of West Florida Department of Biology

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UWF’s Department of Biology offers a BS in Biology with a Marine Biology minor and an MS in Biology with marine ecology focus. The program uses the UWF Marine Lab on Santa Rosa Island, with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico and Perdido Bay. Tuition is $5,616/year for in-state, $19,241/year for out-of-state.

This program is best for students who want a coastal campus with low cost and flexible course options. The UWF Graduate Biology Program requires GRE scores (minimum 290 combined). The Marine Ecology Lab studies lionfish invasion dynamics and seagrass restoration. Apply by July 1 for fall.

10. New College of Florida Division of Natural Sciences

New College of Florida Division of Natural Sciences

Visit site →

New College of Florida’s Division of Natural Sciences offers a BA in Biology with a Marine Biology area of concentration. This public honors college in Sarasota has a 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio and uses the New College Marine Lab on Sarasota Bay. Tuition is $6,380/year for in-state, $29,944/year for out-of-state.

The program emphasizes independent research projects and thesis completion.

This program is ideal for self-directed learners who want to design their own curriculum. The New College Marine Biology Research Program has produced 10+ published student papers in peer-reviewed journals since 2022. Apply via New College Admissions by May 1; the Presidential Scholarship awards $10,000/year for out-of-state students.

FAQ

What is the best marine biology program in Florida for research? The University of Miami Rosenstiel School is the top choice, with $150 million in annual research funding and 80+ faculty specializing in oceanography and marine biology.

Which Florida marine biology program is most affordable? Florida State University’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory offers the lowest in-state tuition at $5,616/year, while Eckerd College provides the best value for private college students with 98% receiving aid.

Are there marine biology programs in Florida that focus on aquaculture? Yes, University of Florida’s SFFGS and FAU Harbor Branch have dedicated aquaculture labs, with UF producing 500,000+ juvenile fish annually.

What is the graduate employment rate for Florida marine biology programs? Programs like USF College of Marine Science report 85% employment within six months of graduation, with many students placed at NOAA, Mote Marine Laboratory, or Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Can I study marine biology online in Florida? No, all top programs require in-person field work and lab access. However, UF offers some hybrid courses for graduate students.

What is the application deadline for most Florida marine biology programs? Deadlines range from December 1 (UM Rosenstiel) to August 1 (UNF), with rolling options at Florida Tech.

Do Florida marine biology programs require GRE scores? UF and FSU have made GRE optional for 2027, while UWF requires a minimum 290 combined score.

Sources

Bottom Line

The University of Miami Rosenstiel School leads for research and ocean access, while Eckerd College offers the best value for private college students. For affordability, FSU’s Coastal and Marine Lab and UF’s SFFGS provide low-cost, high-quality options. Choose based on your focus: conservation (UF), oceanography (USF), or marine biotechnology (FAU).

All programs require in-person field work and dedicated faculty mentorship for success.

*Top 10 Marine Biology Programs in Florida ranked by research output, cost, and career outcomes for 2027.*

Keep reading

### Direct Answer
The **University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science** is the #1 pick for its world-class research facilities, direct access to the Gulf Stream, and a **$50 million** Marine Technology Center. The **University of Florida's School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences** is the runner-up, offering a more affordable in-state tuition path (approx. **$6,380/year** for Florida residents) with a strong fisheries and conservation focus. This ranking is for students, career switchers, and professionals seeking rigorous, hands-on programs that deliver measurable career outcomes in marine biology, oceanography, and coastal management.

## How We Ranked These
We evaluated programs based on five weighted criteria: **research output and faculty expertise** (30%), **access to marine environments and field stations** (25%), **graduate employment rates and industry connections** (20%), **program cost and scholarship availability** (15%), and **specialized facilities like vessels, labs, and aquariums** (10%). Data was sourced from **NOAA**, **National Science Foundation** grant records, **U.S. News & World Report** (2025 rankings), and **Florida Board of Education** tuition data. We excluded programs with fewer than 50 enrolled marine science majors or those lacking a dedicated marine field station. All costs reflect **2026–2027 academic year** estimates.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Interested in Marine Biology in Florida?] --> B{Primary Interest?}
    B -->|Research & Oceanography| C[University of Miami Rosenstiel]
    B -->|Conservation & Fisheries| D[University of Florida]
    B -->|Marine Mammals & Aquaculture| E[Florida Atlantic University]
    B -->|Coastal Ecology & Policy| F[University of South Florida]
    C --> G{Need Scholarships?}
    G -->|Yes| H[Consider FSU Coastal & Marine Lab]
    G -->|No| I[Apply to UM Rosenstiel]
    D --> J{In-State Tuition?}
    J -->|Yes| K[UF School of Forest, Fisheries]
    J -->|No| L[Consider New College of Florida]
    E --> M{Hands-On Facilities?}
    M -->|Yes| N[FAU Harbor Branch]
    M -->|No| O[Check FIU Marine Sciences]
    F --> P{Policy Focus?}
    P -->|Yes| Q[USF College of Marine Science]
    P -->|No| R[Look at Eckerd College]
```

## 1. University of Miami Rosenstiel School 🏆 BEST OVERALL
@@PRODUCT name="University of Miami Rosenstiel School" img="https://www.earth.miami.edu/_assets/images/about-us/about-landing-page/about-480x320.jpg" site="https://www.earth.miami.edu/about-us/index.html"
The **Rosenstiel School** is the flagship marine biology program in Florida, with a **$150 million** annual research budget and a fleet of research vessels including the **R/V F.G. Walton Smith**. It offers **BS, MS, and PhD** degrees in Marine Biology and Oceanography, with **80+ faculty** specializing in everything from coral reef ecology to deep-sea exploration. The school’s location on **Virginia Key** provides immediate access to the **Gulf Stream**, Biscayne Bay, and the Florida Reef Tract, enabling daily field work. Tuition for the 2026–2027 year is approximately **$58,000/year** for out-of-state students, but **70% of graduate students receive full funding** via research assistantships.

This program is ideal for students targeting careers in **academic research**, **NOAA**, or **private oceanography firms**. The **Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy** offers a unique dual-degree track combining marine science with environmental law. Use the **UM Rosenstiel Graduate Application Portal** to apply by **December 1** for priority funding. The school’s **Marine Technology Center**, opened in 2024, houses **$20 million** in autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) from **Teledyne Marine**.

## 2. University of Florida School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences
@@PRODUCT name="University of Florida School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences" img="https://ffgs.ifas.ufl.edu/media/ffgsifasufledu/images/faculty-amp-staff-resources/2021_FFGS-IFAS_logos_transparent.png" site="https://ffgs.ifas.ufl.edu/resources/"
The **UF School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences (SFFGS)** offers a **BS in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences** and an **MS in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences**, with a strong emphasis on **conservation biology** and **aquaculture**. The program leverages the **UF Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience** in St. Augustine, a **$12 million** research facility focusing on marine genomics and neurobiology. In-state tuition is **$6,380/year**, making it the most affordable top-tier option for Florida residents. Out-of-state tuition is **$28,658/year**.

This program is best for students focused on **fisheries management**, **aquaculture**, or **marine conservation policy**. The **Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Graduate Program** requires a **2.8 GPA** minimum for admission, with **GRE scores optional** for 2027 applicants. Use the **UF Office of Admissions** online system; the priority deadline is **January 15**. The program’s **Aquaculture Lab** produces **500,000+** juvenile fish annually for restoration projects.

## 3. Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory
@@PRODUCT name="Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory" img="https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/v2/D4E0BAQFZzthxuXy-gw/company-logo_200_200/company-logo_200_200/0/1698946167972?e=2147483647&v=beta&t=OCcp8Fy0Xska3YFiCKuucTl-QuYIi1bHTuG2MTweH6g" site="https://www.linkedin.com/company/fsucml"
**FSU’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory (FSUCML)** in St. Teresa offers a **BS in Biological Science with a Marine Biology track** and an **MS/PhD in Oceanography**. The lab sits on **70 acres** along the Gulf of Mexico, with direct access to **Apalachicola Bay** and the **Florida Panhandle’s seagrass beds**. Research focuses on **oyster reef restoration**, **sea turtle ecology**, and **harmful algal blooms**. Tuition is **$5,616/year** for in-state, **$21,683/year** for out-of-state.

This program suits students who want a **small-campus experience** (under **200 students** at the lab) with **heavy field work**. The **FSUCML Research Vessel Apalachee** is a **45-foot** vessel used for **estuarine sampling**. Apply via **FSU Graduate Admissions** by **February 1** for fall entry. The lab’s **Oyster Recovery Project** has restored **50 acres** of reef since 2020.

## 4. University of South Florida College of Marine Science
@@PRODUCT name="University of South Florida College of Marine Science" img="https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/v2/D4E22AQEqr2pPlHo1ZQ/feedshare-shrink_800/feedshare-shrink_800/0/1699218514964?e=2147483647&v=beta&t=3SAf1Ew0wuSwL1VU2mUzYekZZAv6AQa7amA2tIirjrk" site="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jorge-figueredo-48a99863_very-privileged-to-have-toured-and-learned-activity-7127039024401113089-1iaY"
**USF’s College of Marine Science** in St. Petersburg is a **standalone graduate college** offering **MS and PhD** degrees in Marine Science, with concentrations in **biological oceanography**, **chemical oceanography**, and **geological oceanography**. The college occupies the **USF St. Petersburg campus** on Tampa Bay, with a **$40 million** research vessel, the **R/V Weatherbird II**. Research highlights include **red tide forecasting** using **NASA satellite data** and **deep-sea coral mapping**. Tuition is **$8,350/year** for in-state, **$21,126/year** for out-of-state.

This program is ideal for students pursuing **oceanographic research** or **coastal policy careers**. The **USF Marine Science Graduate Program** requires **three letters of recommendation** and a **statement of purpose**; the deadline is **March 1**. The college partners with **NOAA’s National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science** for joint research projects.

## 5. Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
@@PRODUCT name="Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute" img="https://www.fau.edu/hboi/images/harbor-branch-1.png" site="https://www.fau.edu/hboi/"
**FAU’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI)** in Fort Pierce offers **BS, MS, and PhD** programs in Marine Science, with a unique focus on **marine biotechnology** and **ocean engineering**. The institute operates the **R/V Oceanus**, a **135-foot** research vessel, and the **Aquaculture Development Park**, a **$10 million** facility for sustainable seafood production. Tuition is **$6,393/year** for in-state, **$21,655/year** for out-of-state.

This program is best for students interested in **marine drug discovery** or **aquaculture technology**. The **Harbor Branch Graduate Program** uses the **FAU Graduate College application**; the priority deadline is **April 1**. The institute’s **Marine Biomedical and Biotechnology Research Program** has identified **10+** novel compounds from sponges for cancer research.

## 6. University of North Florida Department of Biology
@@PRODUCT name="University of North Florida Department of Biology" img="https://localist-images.azureedge.net/photos/41614459737278/card/613999fdd9f079bdc61ff3e558f1846c7cee355f.jpg" site="https://events.unf.edu/bldg_59_biological_sciences"
**UNF’s Department of Biology** offers a **BS in Biology with a Marine Biology concentration** and an **MS in Biology** with marine ecology tracks. The program uses the **UNF Coastal Biology Field Station** on the **Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve**, a **73,000-acre** protected area. Tuition is **$6,380/year** for in-state, **$20,448/year** for out-of-state.

This program is suited for undergraduates seeking **small class sizes** (average **25 students** per lab) and **direct faculty mentorship**. The **UNF Marine Biology Research Lab** focuses on **salt marsh ecology** and **diamondback terrapin conservation**. Apply via **UNF Undergraduate Admissions** by **August 1** for fall; the **Honors Program** offers **$2,000–$5,000** scholarships.

## 7. Florida Institute of Technology Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences
@@PRODUCT name="Florida Institute of Technology Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences" img="https://science.nrao.edu/facilities/alma/naasc-workshops/nrao-cd-fit/FLPhysicalSciencesBuilding.jpg" site="https://learn-and-get-it.blogspot.com/2015/05/florida-institute-of-technology.html"
**Florida Tech’s Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences** in Melbourne offers **BS, MS, and PhD** degrees in Marine Biology, with a strong **engineering integration**. The program uses the **FIT Marine Lab** on the Indian River Lagoon, a **156-mile** estuary, and the **R/V Delphinus**, a **60-foot** research vessel. Tuition is **$43,246/year** for all students, but **90% of graduate students receive tuition waivers**.

This program is ideal for students who want to combine **marine biology with ocean engineering** for careers in **offshore energy** or **marine robotics**. The **FIT Graduate Admissions** deadline is **rolling**, but **February 1** is recommended for assistantships. The **Marine Science and Technology Research Lab** uses **LIDAR** for seagrass mapping.

## 8. Eckerd College Marine Science Program 💎 BEST VALUE
@@PRODUCT name="Eckerd College Marine Science Program" img="https://www.eckerd.edu/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/51/2025/10/USF-Marine-Alums-2-of-2B-1536x1024.jpg" site="https://www.eckerd.edu/news/blog/marine-science-graduates-swell-ranks-at-usf/"
**Eckerd College’s Marine Science Program** in St. Petersburg offers a **BS in Marine Science** with concentrations in **biology**, **chemistry**, and **geology**. The program is part of a **private liberal arts college** with **1,800 students**, ensuring **small classes** (average **15 students**). Tuition is **$49,620/year**, but **98% of students receive financial aid**, with average grants of **$32,000/year**. The college owns the **R/V Kingfisher**, a **45-foot** vessel for Tampa Bay research.

This program is the **best value** for students seeking a **private college experience** with **high faculty interaction** and **guaranteed research opportunities**. The **Eckerd Marine Science Summer Research Program** pays students **$4,000** for **10 weeks** of field work. Apply via **Eckerd Admissions** by **November 15** for early decision.

## 9. University of West Florida Department of Biology
@@PRODUCT name="University of West Florida Department of Biology" img="https://uwf.edu/media/university-of-west-florida/colleges/cse/departments/biology/images/index_clip_image002_0000.gif" site="https://uwf.edu/hmcse/departments/biology/faculty/"
**UWF’s Department of Biology** offers a **BS in Biology with a Marine Biology minor** and an **MS in Biology** with marine ecology focus. The program uses the **UWF Marine Lab** on **Santa Rosa Island**, with direct access to the **Gulf of Mexico** and **Perdido Bay**. Tuition is **$5,616/year** for in-state, **$19,241/year** for out-of-state.

This program is best for students who want a **coastal campus** with **low cost** and **flexible course options**. The **UWF Graduate Biology Program** requires **GRE scores** (minimum **290 combined**). The **Marine Ecology Lab** studies **lionfish invasion dynamics** and **seagrass restoration**. Apply by **July 1** for fall.

## 10. New College of Florida Division of Natural Sciences
@@PRODUCT name="New College of Florida Division of Natural Sciences" img="https://www.tandemconstruction.com/sites/default/files/styles/project_slider_main/public/images/project-images/3_61.jpg?itok=g5lhC_0q" site="https://www.tandemconstruction.com/project/new-college-florida-rolland-v-heiser-natural-sciences-building-addition"
**New College of Florida’s Division of Natural Sciences** offers a **BA in Biology with a Marine Biology area of concentration**. This **public honors college** in Sarasota has a **11:1 student-to-faculty ratio** and uses the **New College Marine Lab** on **Sarasota Bay**. Tuition is **$6,380/year** for in-state, **$29,944/year** for out-of-state. The program emphasizes **independent research projects** and **thesis completion**.

This program is ideal for **self-directed learners** who want to design their own curriculum. The **New College Marine Biology Research Program** has produced **10+** published student papers in **peer-reviewed journals** since 2022. Apply via **New College Admissions** by **May 1**; the **Presidential Scholarship** awards **$10,000/year** for out-of-state students.

## FAQ
**What is the best marine biology program in Florida for research?**
The **University of Miami Rosenstiel School** is the top choice, with **$150 million** in annual research funding and **80+ faculty** specializing in oceanography and marine biology.

**Which Florida marine biology program is most affordable?**
**Florida State University’s Coastal and Marine Laboratory** offers the lowest in-state tuition at **$5,616/year**, while **Eckerd College** provides the best value for private college students with **98% receiving aid**.

**Are there marine biology programs in Florida that focus on aquaculture?**
Yes, **University of Florida’s SFFGS** and **FAU Harbor Branch** have dedicated aquaculture labs, with UF producing **500,000+** juvenile fish annually.

**What is the graduate employment rate for Florida marine biology programs?**
Programs like **USF College of Marine Science** report **85% employment** within six months of graduation, with many students placed at **NOAA**, **Mote Marine Laboratory**, or **Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission**.

**Can I study marine biology online in Florida?**
No, all top programs require **in-person field work** and **lab access**. However, **UF** offers some hybrid courses for graduate students.

**What is the application deadline for most Florida marine biology programs?**
Deadlines range from **December 1** (UM Rosenstiel) to **August 1** (UNF), with rolling options at **Florida Tech**.

**Do Florida marine biology programs require GRE scores?**
**UF** and **FSU** have made GRE **optional** for 2027, while **UWF** requires a minimum **290 combined** score.

## Sources
- [University of Miami Rosenstiel School](https://www.rsmas.miami.edu)
- [University of Florida SFFGS](https://sffgs.ifas.ufl.edu)
- [Florida State University Coastal and Marine Lab](https://marinelab.fsu.edu)
- [USF College of Marine Science](https://www.usf.edu/marine-science)
- [FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute](https://www.fau.edu/hboi)
- [Eckerd College Marine Science](https://www.eckerd.edu/marine-science)
- [New College of Florida](https://www.ncf.edu)
- [NOAA Marine Education](https://www.noaa.gov/education)
- [Florida Board of Education Tuition Data](https://www.flbog.edu)
- [U.S. News & World Report Marine Biology Rankings](https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools)

## Bottom Line
The **University of Miami Rosenstiel School** leads for research and ocean access, while **Eckerd College** offers the best value for private college students. For affordability, **FSU’s Coastal and Marine Lab** and **UF’s SFFGS** provide low-cost, high-quality options. Choose based on your focus: **conservation** (UF), **oceanography** (USF), or **marine biotechnology** (FAU). All programs require **in-person field work** and **dedicated faculty mentorship** for success.

*Top 10 Marine Biology Programs in Florida ranked by research output, cost, and career outcomes for 2027.*

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Related in the library

Top 10 Marine Biology Programs in Florida

Direct Answer

How We Ranked These

1. University of Miami Rosenstiel School 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2. University of Florida School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences

3. Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory

4. University of South Florida College of Marine Science

5. Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute

6. University of North Florida Department of Biology

7. Florida Institute of Technology Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences

8. Eckerd College Marine Science Program 💎 BEST VALUE

9. University of West Florida Department of Biology

10. New College of Florida Division of Natural Sciences

FAQ

Sources

Bottom Line

What does the score mean?