Texas A&M University at Galveston offers a specialized curriculum focused on maritime, marine, and ocean-related disciplines, leveraging its coastal location for hands-on learning and research. The campus provides undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to industries like shipping, fisheries, environmental science, and offshore energy.
- Maritime Administration: This program prepares students for careers in port management, logistics, and international trade. Courses cover supply chain management, maritime law, economics of transportation, and vessel operations. Students engage in simulations of port activities and internships with local shipping companies.
- Marine Biology: Emphasizing the study of marine ecosystems, this major includes coursework in marine ecology, ichthyology, oceanography, and conservation biology. Fieldwork involves boat-based research in the Gulf of Mexico, studying biodiversity, coral reefs, and marine mammals.
- Marine Engineering Technology: Focused on the design, maintenance, and operation of marine vessels and offshore structures, courses include naval architecture, fluid mechanics, welding, and propulsion systems. Labs feature practical training with engines and hull models.
- Ocean and Coastal Resources: This interdisciplinary program addresses sustainable management of coastal zones, including environmental policy, GIS mapping, aquaculture, and coastal engineering. Students analyze issues like sea-level rise, erosion, and habitat restoration through capstone projects.
- Marine Transportation: Training future mariners, this degree offers deck officer and engineering tracks with courses in navigation, seamanship, cargo handling, and safety regulations. It aligns with U.S. Coast Guard licensing requirements, including simulator training for bridge operations.
Graduate offerings include Master's degrees in Marine Resources Management and Fisheries Science, with research opportunities in aquaculture, fisheries stock assessment, and renewable ocean energy. The curriculum integrates STEM with real-world applications, supported by facilities like the Marine Mammal Stranding Network and research vessels. Students benefit from partnerships with NOAA, the fishing industry, and energy sectors, ensuring career readiness in dynamic maritime fields. Elective courses allow customization, such as forensic oceanography or maritime cybersecurity, fostering innovation in blue economy challenges. Overall, the programs emphasize experiential learning, with over 80% of students participating in internships or research, preparing them for roles in global trade, environmental protection, and sustainable resource use.
