Marine Biology Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of organisms in the ocean and other marine environments.
Starting Salary
$40K
median
Mid-Career
$62K
salary
ROI Payback
7.5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
5.5%
rate
Marine Biology Overview
Study of organisms in the ocean and other marine environments.
Category
STEM
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
58%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Limited
Underemployment
35%
Lifetime Premium
$250K
Female Graduates
60%
Marine Biology Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$18,000
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$18,000
after scholarships
ROI Payback
4 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$232,000
Lifetime earnings premium ($250,000) minus net degree cost ($18,000)
Marine Biology Salary Progression
Common Marine Biology Careers
Marine Biologist
Aquarist
Environmental Consultant
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Marine Biology
#1
Scripps/UCSD
#2
University of Miami
#3
University of Hawaii
#4
Oregon State
#5
Duke
Marine Biology Degree FAQ
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