The Institute of Marine and Coastal Studies at the Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University, offers a Master's of
Science in Coastal Zone Management, both in-house and by distance education (courses accessible via the world wide web). The
online MS degree is designed for people "at a distance" from the Oceanographic Center, or those who wish to take advantage of
the flexible delivery system. Students may complete the degree entirely online, or take a blend of distance and on-site
courses (including field courses) with the Oceanographic Center. All of Nova’s programs are fully accredited by the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students may apply to enter the MS in CZM program with four courses (twelve
graduate credits) to their credit, after successful completion of
our Graduate Certificate in Coastal Studies or Graduate Certificate in Marine and Coastal Climate Change.
The Coastal Zone Management degree program focuses on contemporary problems and conflicts arising from increased use of coastal
areas and emphasizes the evaluation of alternative policy management solutions. It is intended for employees of government and
industry seeking career enhancement, as well as for recent college graduates seeking careers in planning and management with
government agencies, industries, and other activities depending on or affecting the coastal zone or its resources. The program
can also be of value for enhancement of careers in education.
Degree completion requirements are 45 course credits, including five core courses, eight electives, and a six-credit capstone
review paper. The capstone paper is a comprehensive review paper of a topic relevant to coastal zone management. For more
information on admission requirements, the capstone process and other related policies, please see the official Catalog.
How long will it take, and how much does it cost?
Students often choose to take no more than one course per semester. Part-time students are expected to complete the degree
within five years from admission; full-time students (taking two courses or more per semester) are expected to complete within
two years. For up-to-date course costs, please follow Click here for information about financial aid.
Who is eligible, and how does one apply for admission?
Because of the diversity of course subjects, applicants with any undergraduate major will be considered for admission but a
science major is most useful. Even if the undergraduate degree is not in the sciences, an undergraduate background with
elements of the basic sciences (chemistry, mathematics, physics and biology) is essential.
Criteria for full acceptance into the MS program in Coastal Zone Management include GRE scores (verbal, quantitative,
analytical) of 55% throughout, an undergraduate transcript with a GPA for the major of at least 3.0 and a GPA overall of 2.9.
In addition, three letters of recommendation and a statement of career goals are required. For provisional acceptance into the
program, GRE scores of 40% throughout are required and a GPA for the major of 2.75 and 2.5 overall. Provisional students must
secure a ‘B’ grade average or better in their first four classes (i.e. a GPA of 3.0) to allow them to convert to full
acceptance status. Students falling slightly below criteria in one area may still be accepted into the program if their
application is strong in other areas.
Prospective students can apply for enrollment in any semester (spring, summer, fall or winter).
Click here for the online application form.
Would you like more information?
Email "Jane Dougan" <douganj barney nova fred edu> (Coordinator of Distance
Learning)
or "Julio Perez" <oconline barney nova fred edu> (Administrative Assistant).
Telephone 1-800-541-6682 and ask for either Jane or Julio (Ext. 23621).
Fax us at 954-262-4020.
Write us at
The Institute of Marine and Coastal Studies
8000 North Ocean Drive
Dania Beach, FL 33004 USA
You may also wish to explore the link for prospective students on the distance
education home page.
