This program prepares students to enter the rapidly expanding fields of aquaculture, resource management, environmental assessment, protection and conservation, biotechnology, and education related to estuarine, coastal, and marine environments. The level of experience required for an individual to contribute in these fields is not adequately satisfied by an undergraduate degree in biology or environmental science; therefore, individuals with specific, advanced, and focused training are needed. This program, with a strong basic emphasis on the biological and chemical sciences, will prepare students for these fields.