College Scholarships for Marine Science Majors

Marine Science Scholarship Data, Degree Costs & ROI

This snapshot is built from CollegeWhale’s own scholarship database and planning tools. It shows how many awards are available for Marine Science majors, how much money is on the table, and what early-career pay and typical college costs can look like.

Scholarships in Our Database

We currently have 12 Marine Science verified and active scholarships available in our database. These awards come from professional associations, nonprofit organizations, and private sponsors. We’re actively adding scholarships tied to Marine Science. Check back often or use our main scholarship search to uncover more awards that fit your profile.

Total Scholarship Dollars Listed

Across these listings, the total advertised award value comes to roughly $85,500. Many scholarships for this major list flexible or renewable award amounts. As we continue to add additional Marine Science scholarships, this section will show an estimate of the total dollars currently available in our database.

Early-Career Median Pay & ROI

Graduates with a Marine Science degree commonly see early-career median pay around $75,000 per year, depending on location, employer type, and experience.

Marine Science ROI Snapshot:
We estimate a typical 4-year net cost of college at about $108,584.

First-year median earnings are roughly 69% of that total cost. At that pace, it would take about 1.4 years of early-career earnings to “earn back” your degree investment (before taxes and living costs).

Marine Science Scholarships to Apply for Now (Scholarship FastFind™)

The CollegeWhale Scholarship FastFind™ makes it easy to discover the best Marine Science scholarships — fast. Filter by award amount, deadline month, and estimated time to apply, then instantly download your personalized list. No sign-ups, no personal info, no spam — just real, verified scholarships.

1

Alaska Sea Grant State Fellowship

The Alaska Sea Grant State Fellowship is a professional fellowship opportunity administered through Alaska Sea Grant at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. It is designed to provide graduate students and recent graduates (those within two years of earning a graduate

Award: $60,000 Deadline: February Est. Application Time: Med (48 min)
2

Maine Sea Grant Undergraduate Scholarship in Marine Sciences

The Maine Sea Grant Undergraduate Scholarship in Marine Sciences is a competitive award designed to support undergraduate students pursuing academic programs in marine science, oceanography, coastal ecology, marine policy, fisheries science, or related fields at colleges and universities. Administered by

Award: $4,000 Deadline: March Est. Application Time: Med (48 min)
3

Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship is offered through the Women Divers Hall of Fame (WDHOF) to support women pursuing higher education or advanced research in marine science, oceanography, environmental conservation, or related aquatic fields. This scholarship honors the legacy of

Award: $2,000 Deadline: October Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
4

Laurel Clark Sea-to-Space Physiology Research Grant

The Laurel Clark Sea-to-Space Physiology Research Grant is offered through the Women Divers Hall of Fame (WDHOF) to support graduate or advanced undergraduate students conducting research in physiology as it relates to human performance in extreme environments—from the ocean’s depths

Award: $2,000 Deadline: September Est. Application Time: Med (48 min)
5

Marine Technology Society Scholarships

The Marine Technology Society (MTS) Scholarships are a suite of awards designed to support students who are pursuing full-time marine-related education in fields such as marine technology, marine engineering, oceanography, and marine science. Administered by MTS—a professional organization dedicated to

Award: $1,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
6

Graduate Marine Conservation Scholarships

The Graduate Marine Conservation Scholarships are offered through the Women Divers Hall of Fame (WDHOF), a nonprofit dedicated to honoring and supporting outstanding women in diving and marine professions. These scholarships provide financial support for graduate students conducting independent research,

Award: $2,000 Deadline: October Est. Application Time: Med (48 min)
7

Captains Preferred Products Annual Marine Science Scholarship

The Captains Preferred Products Annual Marine Science Scholarship is an annual merit-based award designed to support students who are pursuing higher education in marine science, marine biology, oceanography, or other closely related marine-focused disciplines. Sponsored by Captains Preferred Products—a company

Award: $1,000 Deadline: March Est. Application Time: Med (83 min)
8

Collier-Keys Marine Science Scholarship

The Collier-Keys Marine Science Scholarship is offered through United Women of Collier County and the Collier-Keys chapter to support students pursuing education and careers in marine science, environmental science, oceanography, aquatic biology, coastal ecology, or related STEM fields. This scholarship

Award: $5,000 Deadline: Rolling Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
9

Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship

The NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship Program is a prestigious, mission-focused award funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that supports undergraduate students who are preparing for careers in oceanic and atmospheric science, research, technology, education, and

Award: $9,500 Deadline: January Est. Application Time: Low (28 min)
10

NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries Scholarships

The NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries Scholarships are part of a broader suite of education funding opportunities supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. While specific scholarship amounts and individual program details

Award: Varies Deadline: January Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
11

American Fisheries Society Hutton Junior Fisheries

The American Fisheries Society (AFS) Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is a nationally recognized education and career-pathway initiative designed to introduce high school students to the field of fisheries biology and aquatic science. The program focuses on increasing diversity, inclusion,

Award: Varies Deadline: January Est. Application Time: Med (63 min)
12

Rolex Scholarships

The Rolex Scholarships, offered by the Our World-Underwater Scholarship Society, are designed for students passionate about underwater exploration, marine science, and conservation. These prestigious scholarships provide funding for international travel, hands-on training, and mentorship opportunities with leading professionals in the

Award: Varies Deadline: December Est. Application Time: Med (78 min)
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Expert Answers to the Most Asked Marine Science Scholarship Questions

Marine Science Scholarships for College Students

Marine science majors study the ocean and its ecosystems, exploring topics like marine biology, oceanography, environmental conservation, and coastal management. To help students protect and understand our planet’s most vital natural resource, many universities, research institutions, and environmental organizations offer marine science scholarships. These awards often recognize academic excellence, field research experience, and a commitment to ocean conservation.

Are There Scholarships for Marine Science Majors?


Yes, many scholarships and grants are available for students pursuing degrees in marine science, oceanography, or related fields. These awards are offered by universities, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private foundations to support students interested in marine biology, conservation, and oceanic research.

What Is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Scholarship?

The NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in marine science, atmospheric science, and related fields. Eligibility requirements include:

  • Being a U.S. citizen enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student.
  • Having a declared major in marine science, biology, or environmental science.
  • Maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Recipients receive up to $9,500 per year for two years and a 10-week paid NOAA internship.

What Is the Marine Technology Society (MTS) Scholarship?


The Marine Technology Society Scholarship supports students pursuing marine science or technology degrees. Key details include:

  • Open to undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Scholarship amounts range from $2,000 to $10,000 annually.
  • Applicants must be MTS members and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership in marine studies.

This scholarship is ideal for students focusing on marine engineering or technology development.

Are There Scholarships for Women in Marine Science?

Yes, scholarships specifically for women in marine science include:

  • Society for Women in Marine Science (SWMS) Scholarship: Awards for female students pursuing careers in oceanography or marine biology.
  • Women Divers Hall of Fame Scholarship: Provides funding for women excelling in marine research and underwater technology.

These scholarships aim to increase gender diversity and representation in marine science fields.

What Is the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Scholarship?


The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation (NMSF) Scholarship supports students focusing on marine conservation and research. Eligibility includes:

  • Enrolling in an undergraduate or graduate marine science program.
  • Demonstrating a commitment to marine conservation and environmental stewardship.
  • Submitting a personal essay and recommendation letters.

Scholarships typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually.

Are There Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Marine Science?

Yes, high school seniors planning to study marine science can apply for scholarships such as:

  • National Marine Educators Association (NMEA) Scholarship: Supports high school students demonstrating interest in marine education or conservation.
  • Davidson Fellows Scholarship: Awards for students excelling in marine science research or innovation.

These scholarships encourage young students to pursue careers in marine science.

What Is the Our World-Underwater Scholarship?

The Our World-Underwater Scholarship Society provides funding for students and young professionals passionate about underwater research and marine conservation. Eligibility includes:

  • Being between 21 and 26 years old.
  • Demonstrating academic excellence and diving experience.
  • Submitting a detailed application, including essays and recommendation letters.

Recipients gain funding for marine science research projects and professional mentorship.

Are There Corporate Scholarships for Marine Science Students?

Yes, several companies offer scholarships for marine science students. Examples include:

  • SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund Scholarship: Provides funding for students focusing on marine biology or wildlife conservation.
  • Schmidt Ocean Institute Internship Scholarship: Supports students working on oceanographic research and innovation.

These scholarships often include internship or fieldwork opportunities with sponsoring organizations.

What Are Some University-Specific Scholarships for Marine Science Majors?

Many universities offer scholarships tailored to marine science students, such as:

  • Scripps Institution of Oceanography Scholarships: Provides funding for undergraduate and graduate students excelling in oceanographic research.
  • University of Miami Rosenstiel School Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based awards for students studying marine and atmospheric sciences.
  • University of Rhode Island Coastal Fellows Program: Offers funding and hands-on research opportunities for students in marine science.

Contact your university’s marine science department for additional opportunities.

How to Apply for Marine Science Scholarships?

To apply for scholarships and grants in marine science:

  • Prepare Research Proposals: Many scholarships require a description of your marine science research interests or projects.
  • Write a Personal Statement: Highlight your passion for ocean conservation, career goals, and academic achievements.
  • Submit Diving Certifications (if applicable): Some marine research scholarships require scuba diving certifications.
  • Meet Deadlines: Ensure all application materials, including essays and transcripts, are submitted on time.

Applying to multiple scholarships increases your chances of receiving funding for your marine science education.

Myth: Marine Science Scholarships Are Only for Researchers

Fact: While many scholarships support marine researchers, there are also awards for students pursuing careers in education, conservation, marine policy, and technology development.

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