Career in Marine biology: Marine Biology is the science that deals with animals and plants that live in the sea. It also deals with airborne and terrestrial organisms that depend directly upon bodies of salt water for food and other necessities of life. In the broadest sense, it attempts to describe all vital phenomena of the throng of living things that dwell in the world’s vast oceans. Marine biology is closely related to the science of oceanography as the relationship between the physical features of the oceans to the living organisms that dwell in them. It aids in understanding marine geology through studying those organisms that contribute their skeletal remains to the floors of the oceans or that elaborate the vast coral reefs of the tropic seas.
Read this article in Hindi: समुद्री जीव विज्ञान में करियर – पाठ्यक्रम, प्रवेश, नौकरी और वेतन
As the world population increases, people will become more dependent on the ocean for food and other basic needs. By incorporating the latest technologies into marine biology, the ocean can be transformed into an ultimate food source, transportation, waste disposal, drinking water, and energy source. The following article will give you a brief idea about the Career in Marine Biology in India. Read in-depth info on different Marine Biology jobs available after taking Marine Biology courses.
If you are passionate about saving the lives of injured marine creatures, then Marine Biology is the right profession for you. The following article will help you solve questions like, do I want to become a Marine Biologist?
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Quick Facts
Before you is the short summary for the marine biology course:
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Courses | Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology Master of Science in Marine Biology Certificate courses in Marine Biology Master of Science (M.Sc.) Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Marine Biology Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marine Biology |
| Duration | 6 months – 3 years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 |
| Admission Procedure | Merit and entrance based |
| Average Salary | 5-9 L |
| Types of Marine Biologist | Ocean Engineering, Research technician, Marine Environment Economist |
| Skills | Numerical and statistics skills, Practical fieldwork skills, Good observation skills and Patience. |
| Top Recruiters | Meteorological Survey of India, Department of Oceanography |
What is Marine Biology?
Marine Biology is a scientific discipline that deals with all types of sea creatures or marine bodies of water. It studies various life forms in the ocean and their behaviour and interactions with each other and the environment. Marine Biology consists of various sub-disciplines.
A principal aim of marine biology is to discover how ocean phenomena control the distribution of organisms. Marine biologists study how particular organisms are adapted to the seawater’s various chemical and physical properties of the seawater, the movements and currents of the ocean, the availability of light at various depths, and the solid surfaces that make up the seafloor. Special attention is given to determining the dynamics of marine ecosystems, particularly to understanding food chains and predator-prey relationships.
Some marine Biologists may work on algae and other microorganisms, while others may concentrate on large animals like fish. Marine Biologists study core subjects like Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Mathematics, Geology, and Anthropology and apply this knowledge to studying oceans and ocean life forms.
Who is a Marine Biologist?
A person who specialises in Marine Biology and pursues Marine Biology Courses is commonly known as Marine Biologist. Sometimes a Marine Biologist can be referred to as Marine Scientist, Marine Life Biologist, and Ocean Biologist.
They are trained professionals to examine various sea creatures and can continue their studies by specialising in a large ocean animal or a microscopic sea organism. A Marine Scientist’s works are more cornered around researching, and field works rather than simply sitting on a bench and doing the studies.
Various Marine Biology Courses in India
To work as Marine Biologist or to make a career in Marine Biology, one can earn a degree in the following Marine Biology courses.
Certificate Course
The following is the certificate course for the marine biology course:
| Course Name | Duration |
|---|---|
| Certificate courses in Marine Biology | 6 months |
Undergraduate Course
The following is the undergraduate course for marine biology course:
| Course Name | Duration |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology | 3 years |
Postgraduate Courses
The following is the undergraduate course for the marine biology course:
| Course Name | Duration |
|---|---|
| Master of Science in Marine Biology | 2 years |
| Master of Science (M.Sc.) | 2 years |
| Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Marine Biology | 2 years |
PhD Course
| Course Name | Duration |
|---|---|
| Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marine Biology | 3 year |
How to get admission to Marine Biology Course?
- 10+2 in the science stream with biology as additional subjects are eligible.
The candidate should score a minimum of 55% during their 10+2 exams.
Direct admissions based on cut-offs are given in a few colleges. - Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in life sciences such as botany, aquaculture, marine biology, zoology, biochemistry, microbiology and biotechnology with a minimum of 55-60% aggregate marks for postgraduation. Universities offering M.Sc./M. Phil conducts their entrance exam for admission. Selection is based on the performance of the candidates in the entrance examination.
- The students who have accomplished their MSc with at least 55% marks can apply for a PhD with preferable specialisations Marine Biology, Zoology, Botany, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Fisheries, and Life Science.
Eligibility Criteria
The following is the eligibility criteria for students who want to pursue undergraduate marine biology course:
Undergraduate Course
The following is the eligibility criteria for an undergraduate course in marine biology:
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | The minimum age limit is 17 years. |
| Qualification | 10+2 with a minimum aggregate of 55% in the science stream, with biology as an additional subject. |
| Qualifying Entrance Exam | Merit-based, though some colleges conduct entrance examinations for admission, and those who clear the exam are selected. |
Postgraduate Course
The following are the eligibility criteria for a postgraduate course in marine biology:
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Qualification | Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in life sciences such as botany, aquaculture, marine biology, zoology, biochemistry, microbiology and biotechnology with a minimum of 55-60% aggregate marks for a bachelor’s degree. |
| Qualifying Entrance Exam | Selection is based on the performance of the candidates in the entrance examination. |
PhD Course
The following are the eligibility criteria for the PhD course in marine biology:
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Qualification | The students who have accomplished their MSc with at least 55% marks can apply for this course with preferable specialisations Marine Biology, Zoology, Botany, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Fisheries, and Life Science. |
| Qualifying Entrance Exam | Admissions are held through entrance examinations(UGC NET, CSIR NET, AURCET) and personal interviews. |
Top Marine Biology Colleges in India
Below are some of the top marine biology colleges in India with average fees:
| Colleges Name | Location | Average Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Maritime University | Coimbatore | INR 7.2L |
| Shivaji University | Kolhapur | INR 12.50K |
| NITTE Mangalore | Karnataka | INR 1.21L |
| Andhra University | Vishakhapatnam | INR 77K |
| Academy of Maritime Education and Training University | Chennai | INR 3L |
| VSU Nellore | Andhra Pradesh | INR 11.35K |
| Pondicherry University | Pondicherry | INR 25.90K |
| Goa University | Goa | INR 18.88K |
| Annamalai University | Tamil Nadu | INR 11.08K |
Career Opportunities
Since a large proportion of the earth is full of oceans and marine bodies, the demand for Marine Biologists is rising. A Marine Biologist can easily find a job in universities and colleges as many colleges pursue Marine Biology.
Job Profile
| Marine Ecologist and Dive Operations Manager | Marine Biology Technician |
| Consultant in Marine Ecology | Professor in Marine Ecology |
| Fishery Data Manager | Reef Restoration Project Manager |
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Some international, federal, and state organisations offer multiple job opportunities for Marine Biologists as a researcher, fisheries biologists, environmental consultants, naturalists, marine illustrators, aquarium employees, biotechnology specialists, environmental lobbyists and aquaculturists.
Types of Marine Biologists
There are various job profiles from which the candidates can choose according to their interests and qualification. Below are some of the job profiles:
| Ocean Engineering | Research technician |
| Marine Environment Economist | Marine Mammal Trainer |
| Marine Scientist | Scuba Diving Instructor and Underwater Filmmaker |
| Marine Environment Educator/ Oceanography | Aquatic Veterinarian |
| Marine Archeology | Marine Researcher |
Role of a Marine Biologist
The following is the role of a marine biologist:
- Supervising inventories, testing and monitoring marine life exposed to pollutants.
- Collect and analyse samples, and develop new theories based on this research.
- Engage in coring techniques, geographic information systems (GIS), visual recording and sampling to determine the marine environment’s health.
- Preserve specimens and samples of known and unknown species and diseases.
- Track the distribution, ranges and movements of marine populations.
Skills of a Marine Biologist
To be a marine biologist, you should possess some of the following skills required for a marine biologist:
- Familiarity with the marine environment and an interest in aquatic life.
- Numerical and statistics skills.
- Practical fieldwork skills.
- Good observation skills and Patience.
- Teamwork and personal communication abilities.
- Written and oral communication skills.
- To be prepared to work outdoors in all weathers – perhaps at sea.
Salary of a Marine Biologist
The following is the average salary of a marine biologist:
| Job | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Marine Biologist | INR 5-9L |
| Fisheries Biologist | INR 6-8L |
| Biological Technician | INR 5-7L |
| Professor | INR 7-10L |
| Reef Restoration Manager | INR 6-8L |
| Aquatic Biologist | INR 7-9L |
Read Also: Expert view: career and courses after class 12th science
Top Recruiters for Marine Biology
The following are the top recruiters for marine biology courses:
- Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute
- Central Institute of Brackish Water Aquaculture
- Meteorological Survey of India
- Department of Oceanography
- Geological Survey of India
- National Institute of Oceanography
- Pfizer Inc
- Vertex Infosoft Solution Pvt Ltd
Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)
Which field is best for science students with Biology (PCB)?
Below are the Available Courses after 12th Science.
>MBBS
>BDS-dentistry.
>BAMS-Ayurveda.
>BHMS-Homeopathy.
>BUMS-Unani.
>BNYS–Naturopathy & Yogic Science.
>BSMS – Siddha Medicine & Sciences.
>Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry (BVSc. AH)
What are some of the best career options for a Science student?
Check out our list of the top 7 highest-paying science careers for inspiration to guide your career journey.
1. Geoscientists
2. Atmospheric Scientists
3. Biochemists and biophysicists
4. Medical Scientists
5. Hydrologist
6. Materials Scientist
7. Chemist
8. Nuclear Technicians
Is a marine biology class hard?
Within those, you can specify further, work on the physiology of a group or do genetics to the point where it is more molecular than marine biology, yet you are still a marine biologist. That said, yes, it can be very competitive, and it may be hard to find a job.
Where are marine biologist jobs located?
A marine biologist can be employed at university research laboratories, private companies, government research laboratories, and nonprofit environmental advocacy organisations.
Is marine biology a good career?
Marine biology is a good career because the space they work in can be cramped, such as when they are on a research vessel. Marine biologists need to get along with various people, from subordinates to peers and supervisors. They also need good coordination and strong problem-solving, negotiation and time-management skills.
Do marine biologists have to swim?
No, marine biologists do not have to be able to swim. The roles are lab-based or work field, which involves surveys on shorelines or boats.
Marine biology courses after the 12th?
Marine biology courses after the 12th are:
>Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology
>Master of Science in Marine Biology
>Certificate courses in Marine Biology
>Master of Science (M.Sc.)
>Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Marine Biology
>Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Marine Biology
Interested in knowing more about Marine Biology & qualification / admission process
Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in life sciences such as botany, aquaculture, marine biology, zoology, biochemistry, microbiology and biotechnology with a minimum of 55-60% aggregate marks for a bachelor’s degree. Selection is based on the performance of the candidates in the entrance examination.
Sir / Mam ..
I have completed bachelor’s degree in commerce, but it is not what I need.
I like marine biology what should I do to find the required details.
The minimum required percentile in the merit-based or entrance exam should be 55% – 60%. Applying to a master’s program, one must hold a degree in the same field like BSc in Marine Biology, zoology, botany, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, fisheries, or aquaculture.
I HAVE DONE MY GRADUATION IN ZOOLOGY AND AM A SCIENCE STUDENT. WHICH ONE IS BETTER MSC IN MARINE BIOLOGY, BIOTECH OR MBA? AND ALSO WHAT SALARY DOES EACH OFFER? PLZ DO REPLY AS I AM CONFUSED REGARDING MY FUTURE.
You should go ahead with your core subject; Post Graduation from a subject related to zoology make your professional career easier in many ways. MBA is also a good option but makes sure specialization must be related to biology.
Does Marine Biology had job opportunity ? What is it’s salary annually
Yes, ample opportunity for Marine Biology graduate. Starting salary is around 2.5 lac per annum.
HELLO, I FINISHED MY MASTERS IN MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION. IS THERE ANY POSSIBILITY TO STUDY ANOTHER MASTERS IN MARINE BIOLOGY. I WOULD LIKE TO STUDY FURTHER IN THIS FIELD.
You have to check the eligibility as per the institutions.
Currently I’m in 12 standard and I wish to do Bsc in biotechnology,is it possible for me to do MSc in Marine biology after completing my Bsc in biotechnology?
Yes.
May I completed my 12th Bipc and which cources Will be better . And I want to be in science streem…
There are many courses available for PCB students, You have to choose as per your interest and availability of the courses near you.
How can I persue a bachelor’s degree in marine biolgy? What are the colleges in India that offer UG course in marine biology?
Admission is based on the various entrance exams conducted by the institution, You can check the college list in the above article.
Madam I am currently in 3rd year of bsc in medical . I wish to become a researcher in marine life. Which MSc course and exams I should apply for ?
Yes, you can apply for a master degree in a marine biology course.
Hello ma’am I’m complete bsc in marine science now I’m find a job please help ..
You should profile on jobs site like naukari, timesjobs etc.
What to do after 12th for marine biology
What are the requirements and eligibility for becoming a marine biologist ?
And is maths required ? I have done class 12th with phy,chem,bio (PCB) ; am I eligible for this ?
Mam I’m 12th right now
i wana ask that how much it cost to be an marine biologist and did all the marine biologist go into the water
Please reply..
The course fee varies college to college. Why are you scaring from the water?
I am in class 11 right now..
Do I need to clear NEET for marine biology???
Mam how can I get admission in cochin university
Before Msc Marine biology do i have to do Bsc in marine sciences or Bsc in science and if Bsc marine then which subjects as major will help in getting into Msc marine biology? Currently im in 12th
Yeah! Defnetly u should complete ths bsc degree in marine biology or any life science degree
Mam Can you plzz tell me that which exams required for Marine biology after 12 ??? Is NEET required ????
NEET is not required. Admission criteria vary from university to university. First of please check in which university this course is available then check the admission criteria.
Hi,
Hope You are doing well. I am Chetana & Basically I am civil engineer working professional, but I would like to do my further career in this field. After completing HSC in science, I have done my degree in Civil Engineering. I jus want to know what are the eligibility criteria for marine biology. As I already mentioned that I am working professional, so in India DO we have any part time courses in the same field.
Kindly Reply.
Thank You.
There is no part-time course in marine biology.
What subject should i choose in bsc for becoming a marine biologist?
Marine Biologists study core subjects like Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Mathematics, Geology, and Anthropology and apply this knowledge for the study of oceans and ocean life forms.
Are these subjects are available in Goa University???
Please check on their official website.
What subject should i choose in bsc for becoming a marine biologist????? Please reply ..I don’t know what subjects are in bsc for marine biology or Marine biology is only a option for MSc student?????
Hello ..I am graduated in Botany and also PADI open water scuba instructor..I would like become marine biologist …is possible to do distance education.. please help.me
Distance education is not available you have to pursue your course from the regular mode.
Ma’am I’m in class 9
I wanted to know if we had to complete any basic medical studies after 12th before pursuing for specially marine biology courses and college?
Yes you can do.
I have completed my graduation in BS.c(H)Biotechnology. Will I be eligible if i choose to do Msc in marine biology???
Dear Aliza
of course you are eligible for M.Sc. in Marine Biology after completing Graduation in Fisheries course.
Hi , how many years Marine biology?
Bachelor degree for 3 years.
Yeah I been 3rd of electrical engineering as of family demand. I want to be Marine biologist so how can I get admission
You have to pursue a Bachelor degree in marine biology, on behalf of 12th. Your Engineering degree won’t be helpful in terms of fulfilling eligibility criteria.
Marine biology college in Andhra Pradesh?
College of Science and Technology, Andhra Pradesh
Hello mam i am student for marine science and i complete graduate in marine science which course are available in India after marine science please reply. ??
Mam, I want to admission in m.phil and Iam post graduate from Industrial fish and fishery so I can give entrance exam .If you have any information please give reply
I was thinking about applying for m.sc in marine biotechnology in Goa University .Is it worth studing there ?? I am soo confused since I want to choose marine field.Is Goa University good ??
M doing BSc hons in microbiology….after that how can I apply for MSc in microbiology…??
You have to apply for the pg courses in concern university and colleges. First of all, you have to confirm where the courses available and admission procedure.
I am prasanna kumar, i have completed my post graduation in animal biotechnology(Zoology) from Hyderabad central university. Now i want to do phd on marine biology (on fishes or marine related animals).If u have any information …please give reply…Thank you
U can try at nio in goa
im currently in fybsc CBZ i wish to become a marine biologist plz reply and guide me
After 12 th in PCB can i join marine biology ?
Which are the Best institute/Colleges for the bachelor degree and above ?
How can I get admission in this colleges any national exam will be held and what’s the fees of this colleges.they are govt or private college
Dear, admission to these colleges depends on your academic score. Some colleges also conduct their own entrance test to select candidates for the course.
I am in 12th standard. I wish to be a marine biologist. Please help me with what cources or exams should i give and which are the colleges suitable in india.
Dear Gautami, these are some of the reputed colleges to pursue marine biology courses in india.
Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala
Karnatak University, Karnataka
Andhra Pradesh University, Waltair.
You can apply through your class 12th marks. Some college also conduct its own entrance test for the selection.
Thankyou so much.!
hello im persuing my bachelors in zoology and fishery science and wanted to do masters in marine biology and oceanography. kindly tell me about any national examination for entranece and admission details wher ei can get it.
thank you