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Department of

Marine Science and Environmental Studies

Requirements for the Degree

I. Course work (27 units)

MARS 500 – Core Seminar I (3)
MARS 501 – Core Seminar II (3)
MARS 510 – Oceanography I (4)*
MARS 511 – Oceanography II (4)*
MARS 512 – Oceanography III(4)*
MARS 520 – Statistics (3)

Electives (approved by advisor) (6)

*Depending on student’s previous course work, one or more of the MARS 510-512 series may be waived.

II. Thesis (minimum 9 units)

MARS 596 – Research (0.5*-6)
A maximum of 14 units may count toward degree

MARS 597 – Thesis (0.5*-1)
A minimum of 1 unit must be applied toward degree

*Students may take these courses in increments of 0.5 unit only after they have completed 33 units.

III. Minimum Units

The minimum number of units required for graduation is 33; however, if the entire MARS 510-512 series is taken, the total units will add to 36.

A thesis committee of at least three members will be established during the second semester of enrollment. It will consist of at least one full-time USD faculty member and may include a member from an approved outside institution. The remaining members may be selected from USD or adjunct faculty including those at Hubbs. The entire thesis committee will meet with the student semi-annually to assess progress and give advice. Following approval of the thesis proposal by both the Director of the program and the thesis advisor, completion of a full literature review, and satisfaction of any deficiencies noted at the time of admission to the program, the student will be recommended for candidacy by the thesis committee. Adequate progress will need to be made to maintain candidacy (see Candidacy Policy available from the Director). Additional courses related to the student’s area may be required by the thesis advisor (see also Thesis,page 40). All students must be enrolled for at least 1 unit to remain active in the program. Students who have completed 30 units, including all required courses, may enroll in 0.5 unit to remain active in the program.