Coastal Resilience and Environmental Science - BS

This specialized program prepares students for a successful future in marine resource development through an increased focus on geological and biological sciences, along with economics, political science and law.

The Coastal Resilience and Environmental Science (CRES) program is a Bachelor of Science degree that focuses on the application of environmental science to address significant natural and human issues in coastal zones, including resource limitations, pollution and natural hazards, through a resilience lens. The CRES curriculum provides a solid foundation in oceanography, geology, chemistry, biology and physics with additional coursework in economics, policy and management. The curriculum is specifically geared towards understanding the principles and methodologies of coastal resilience from perspectives of the physical and social sciences. These topics are addressed through coursework on social-ecological resilience, coastal disasters and geography, coastal and ocean economics, and fisheries and coastal ecosystems management among other topics. CRES graduates’ solid understanding of coastal science and experience applying scientific knowledge and resilience perspectives to management and policy problems ideally position them to pursue marine or coastal careers with government, non-governmental organizations or private sector employers. With suitably chosen electives, CRES graduates are also well qualified to enter master or doctoral programs in marine resource management and policy, environmental sciences, oceanography or related disciplines.