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Description of Program
Today’s professionals in the maritime sectors of industry and government are expected to help develop policy options and manage natural resources based on the best science and technology. Similarly, technologists, engineers, and scientists are faced with managing personnel, funds, and businesses in challenging fiscal and policy environments.
The Professional Science Masters (PSM) offers an opportunity for students who wish to pursue a non-thesis degree that focuses on science management. The Coastal and Ocean Administration, Science and Technology (COAST) track blends a study of science with coursework in management, policy, or law. The COAST PSM track also has a strong emphasis on writing and communication skills.
This unique combination will allow students to enter the workforce immediately as science professionals, working in organizations that specialize in the sciences. For those already in the workforce, the PSM is an excellent way to broaden their knowledge of both the science and business practices of their employer.
Learning Outcomes
- Understanding broad areas of marine science and technology, including physical, biological, chemical and/or geological functions of the ocean and coastal waters
- Understanding broad areas of ocean policy, management, and/or conservation, including social-economic, policy, and shared use of common property of the ocean and coastal waters
- Understanding the specialized knowledge related to student’s field of study
- Develop professional level research, management or work experience, and written and oral presentation skills
Requirements
The COAST PSM program requires a minimum of 34 credit hours. Students are required to take two core oceanography courses in biological, chemical, physical, and/or geological oceanography and one core policy course. In addition, four science elective courses; two elective Plus courses; two elective courses, either science and/or Plus courses, selected to fit the student’s area of concentration are required. Each PSM student must also complete a one credit internship (approximately 216 hours) along with an oral presentation and final report.
Successful performance in the core courses is required for advancement to degree status. A grade of B- or better in each core course and an overall GPA average of 3.0 (B) in the core courses are required. There is a retake option on a course for which the student receives a grade of B- or less.
Full time PSM students can complete their degree requirements in two years. A typical part-time student will do so in three years.
Additional information on the PSM program can be found on the SMAST website.
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