The Marine and Coastal Science major builds upon strengths at UC Davis in marine and coastal sciences as well as field-based courses offered at Bodega Marine Laboratory to provide students a unique, interdisciplinary, “hands on” education.
The major focuses on the interdisciplinary nature of marine sciences by exposing students to core, breadth, and focus area courses in the discipline, in addition to a strong foundation of science preparatory material.
The MCS major begins with introductory courses in mathematics, chemistry, physics, biology, and earth sciences. These are followed by core courses in Marine Science. The major requirements provide focus and breadth, so that each student gains mastery in one area and broad exposure to many facets of Marine and Coastal Science. Focus and Breadth areas include: Coastal Environmental Processes, Marine Ecology and Organismal Biology, Marine Environmental Chemistry, or Oceans and the Earth System.
The student’s chosen Focus Area will determine the college into which the student is admitted, the college where the degree is awarded, and the associated department (in parentheses), as listed below:
- Coastal Environmental Processes: College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (Environmental Science & Policy)
- Marine Ecology & Organismal Biology: College of Biological Sciences (Evolution & Ecology)
- Marine Environmental Chemistry: College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (Environmental Toxicology)
- Oceans and the Earth System: College of Letters and Science (Earth and Planetary Sciences)
How can MCS Majors become Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute affiliates?
Joining the CMSI community is easy! All affiliates have to do is be a current UC Davis student, faculty or staff actively working or studying in coastal and marine sciences, and sign up.
As a CMSI affiliate, you’ll be part of a growing network of students, faculty and staff who are passionate about marine science. CMSI hosts seminars, salons, and other workshops to help build your network in and outside of UC Davis and expand on the skills and experience needed as a graduate student or in a career in marine science.
Advising
Contact information for your major advisor and Mandatory Advising instructions.
Orientation for New MCSci Students
Welcome new Aggies! Here you will find information for preparing to register for Fall classes.
Planning your MCS Major
Sample academic plans and more information about elective courses to aid you in planning your degree.
Prospective MCS Transfer Students
The UC Davis Earth and Planetary Sciences Department welcomes prospective transfer students from community colleges and four-year institutions.
Undergraduate Student Resources
Discover resources for success inside and outside the classroom.
Get Involved with MCS
Getting involved in your major is a wonderful way to make friends and establish a greater connection to your coursework and your future as a marine scientist.
Study Abroad and other Field Experiences
Studying abroad is an excellent way to explore the natural world while fulfilling requirements towards your degree.
Undergrad Research
UC Davis has many opportunities for undergraduates to participate in high-quality, hands-on research.
Undergraduate Honors, Scholarships & Awards in MCS
UC Davis and the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences offer scholarships and awards based on achievement or financial need.
Internships and Careers
The MCS major program includes both research and internship experiences to help prepare students for these career paths.
Preparing for Graduate School in Marine Science
How to prepare and apply to graduate school in the marine sciences.