Coastal Carolina has the largest undergraduate marine science program on the East Coast. Marine Science at Coastal applies courses from biology, chemistry, geology, physics, mathematics, as well as marine science to the study of the ocean environment. Lecture, laboratory, and field experiences are integrated to provide a well-rounded scientific program. Students may choose to concentrate their studies in one of the following areas: Marine Biology, Coastal Geology, Marine Chemistry, Atmosphere/Ocean Dynamics or Marine Analytical Technology.

The Marine Science Department offers students many unique undergraduate opportunities. Facilities available for marine science students include a lecture and laboratory complex, a computer research lab, ocean-going and estuarine research vessels, and a full compliment of oceanographic sampling equipment. All faculty are actively involved in research projects with undergraduate students. These projects include beach profiling, water quality analysis, hurricane dynamics, dolphin tracking and many others. Each year students present their marine science research at local, regional and national scientific meetings. The department also offers many student internship opportunities. Students can also take advantage of various field experiences ranging from research on an undeveloped barrier island to a field course in Jamaica.