COURSE CURRICULUM

The Marine, Estuarine, and Freshwater Biology (MEFB) major at the University of New Hampshire is a rigorous, interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for careers and advanced study in aquatic sciences through a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and field-based ecological research. Students must maintain a minimum grade of C- in all biological science courses used toward the degree, and those aiming for competitive graduate or professional programs are encouraged to maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher by the end of sophomore year. The curriculum begins with core introductory courses in biology, including BIOL 411 Introductory Biology: Molecular and Cellular and BIOL 412 Introductory Biology: Evolution, Biodiversity and Ecology, followed by specialized coursework such as MEFB 401 Marine Estuarine and Freshwater Biology Freshman Seminar, MEFB 503 Introduction to Marine Biology, MEFB 725 Marine Ecology, and ZOOL 690 Evolution, alongside supporting foundational sciences including CHEM 403 and 404 General Chemistry, CHEM 545/546 Organic Chemistry with lab, BMCB 658A General Biochemistry, PHYS 401 and 402 Physics, and genetics through GEN 604 Principles of Genetics. Students also complete quantitative training through mathematics or approved data science and biostatistics courses such as MATH 424B or BIOL 706, plus BIOL 528 Applied Biostatistics I. The major requires selection of specialized courses in plant biology, ecosystem systems, animal physiology, and animal surveys, ensuring broad yet focused understanding of aquatic life. Students choose from advanced electives spanning marine policy, oceanography, fisheries biology, aquatic ecology, conservation, microbial ecology, and field-based marine laboratory courses, many of which take advantage of unique experiential learning environments such as the Shoals Marine Laboratory. A capstone experience through BIOL 780 and additional research or honors options such as MEFB 795 or MEFB 799H ensures integration of theory and practice through independent investigation. Overall, the MEFB program combines strong scientific training, analytical skills, and extensive hands-on research to prepare graduates for careers in marine biology, environmental science, conservation, resource management, and graduate-level study in aquatic and environmental fields.