The Biological Sciences Department encourages learning by doing in the classroom and through research, in the laboratory and the field. Most courses are accompanied by labs where students gain hands-on experience with biology. Cal Poly's geographical setting on the Central Coast of California offers unique opportunities for studying terrestrial, aquatic, and marine ecosystems. The Department offers a wide range of potential research experiences for our majors. Our faculty maintain active research laboratories where students can participate in the scientific process from start to finish, including presenting and publishing their work. Special opportunities are available through the Center for Applications in Biotechnology (CAB), which is developing biological tools to address environmental concerns through collaborative interdisciplinary research and education; the Center for Coastal Marine Science (CCMS), which promotes and facilitates basic and applied studies of coastal marine systems; and the Undergraduate Biotechnology Laboratory (UBL), which provides undergraduates with hands-on biotechnology experience. Additional resources for research and teaching include a 3000-ft pier at nearby Avila Bay, and natural history collections consisting of tens of thousands of insects, plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Application procedure
Admissions
Cal Poly comprehensively reviews all applications, seeking students who have strong academic records and are active in and outside the classroom. Admission to Cal Poly is highly competitive. Beyond the basic California State University qualifications, Cal Poly considers other factors for admission deemed important to the campus and does so in an objective format. Review the selection criteria for undergraduate applicants by starting here: https://admissions.calpoly.edu/prospective/criteria.html.
Applicants are notified of a formal decision by April 1.
First-Time Freshman Factors
When a freshman application is reviewed, the following are considered:
- The applicant’s intended program of study (the major to which application is made)
- The applicant’s college preparatory courses in secondary school
- GPA earned in college preparatory courses
- Standardized test scores
- The applicant’s extra-curricular activities and work experience
- Non-cognitive variables deemed important to the campus
For a comprehensive look at Cal Poly’s selection criteria for a freshman applicant, including deadlines, visit https://admissions.calpoly.edu/applicants/freshman/.
Admissions
Cal Poly comprehensively reviews all applications, seeking students who have strong academic records and are active in and outside the classroom. Admission to Cal Poly is highly competitive. Beyond the basic California State University qualifications, Cal Poly considers other factors for admission deemed important to the campus and does so in an objective format. Review the selection criteria for undergraduate applicants by starting here: https://admissions.calpoly.edu/prospective/criteria.html.
Applicants are notified of a formal decision by April 1.
First-Time Freshman Factors
When a freshman application is reviewed, the following are considered:
- The applicant’s intended program of study (the major to which application is made)
- The applicant’s college preparatory courses in secondary school
- GPA earned in college preparatory courses
- Standardized test scores
- The applicant’s extra-curricular activities and work experience
- Non-cognitive variables deemed important to the campus
For a comprehensive look at Cal Poly’s selection criteria for a freshman applicant, including deadlines, visit https://admissions.calpoly.edu/applicants/freshman/.
Grant opportunities
When you apply to Cal Poly, you are automatically considered for most of our university-wide and college-based scholarships. For need-based scholarships, you must also complete a FAFSA or California Dream Act Application. If you qualify for any university-based scholarships that do require separate applications, you will be emailed instructions on how to apply.
Scholarships for continuing students are usually based on majors and are determined by the specific college or department. Continuing students should complete the application in March using the Scholarship QuickLink in your My Cal Poly Portal.
Scholarships are awarded each year. Generally, a student should have at least a 3.0 grade point average. Both undergraduate and graduate students are considered for scholarships.
More information about offered scholarships can be found here
Learning outcomes
Graduates of the BS Marine Sciences program will be able to:
- Integrate and synthesize information from the various marine disciplines.
- Recognize and value the diversity of marine life and ecosystems.
- Apply the scientific method, by formulating hypotheses, making predictions, and assessing, analyzing, synthesizing, and interpreting data.
- Communicate marine scientific principles and research findings effectively diverse audiences.
- Demonstrate proficiency in lab and field techniques relevant to marine sciences.
- Locate and utilize bibliographic resources and demonstrate the ability to evaluate scientific literature.
- Relate ethical, social justice or global perspectives to the study and practice of marine science.
ISCED Categories
