Coastal & Marine Science

Natural Science focuses on the application of biological, chemical and physical principles of the physical environment and the species that inhabit it. In this program, students learn a wide variety of topics, through lab and field work, in the areas of general ecology, marine biology, oceanography, commercial and sport-fisheries, upland ecology, aquaculture studies and much more. Students will participate in activities including marine and ecological studies, aquaculture projects, water analysis, boater’s safety, wildlife and fisheries projects and involvement in the National FFA Organization. By the end of this program, students will have successfully completed and attained their NJ Boaters Safety Certificate (pending exam results).

Students Will

Attain a NJ Boaters Safety Certificate by mastering the operation of small watercraft, safe decision-making on the water, and essential boating laws.
Manage aquarium systems through the setup and maintenance of tanks, caring for live organisms, and analyzing water-quality data to monitor health.
Identify and classify marine life using taxonomic terminology, professional sampling techniques, and specialized field guides or keys.
Conduct data analysis by collecting,visualizing, and interpreting scientific data to understand and evaluate complex marine ecosystems.
Evaluate human impacts on the ocean,including the study of climate change,pollution, overfishing, and the effectiveness of sustainability practices.
Perform advanced oceanographic research into the ocean’s physical, chemical,geological, and biological systems using real-world case studies.
Participate in the National FFA Organization, developing leadership skills through involvement in the organization and managing a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE).

Career Pathways

Industrial Ecologists
Conservation Scientists
Natural Science Manager
Park Naturalists
Water Quality Monitor
Fisheries Observer
Wildlife Biologist
Oceanographer
Shoreline Protection Manager