Marine Biology

An Area of Concentration in Marine Biology allows students to build a strong foundation in basic biological concepts, with an emphasis on marine organisms and ecosystems. This program of study is designed to prepare students for graduate or professional studies in marine biology, biological oceanography, or related fields, as well as for professional careers in marine or environmental fields.

New College is situated on Sarasota Bay and our students have the opportunity to study and conduct research at the Pritzker Marine Biology Research Center, located on our Bayfront Campus. The Center is home to more than 100 aquaria, anchored by 15,000-gallon research and display tank. Each tank in the Living Ecosystem Teaching and Research Aquarium features different captive ecosystems, including a cold-water rocky shore and Sarasota Bay grass flats. Through a natural filtration system designed by students, the Center draws and recycles water from Sarasota Bay.

New College offers a personal and collaborative learning environment, where faculty and students engage in in-depth exploration of ideas and subject matter, and where students have the freedom to chart their own academic course and prepare for their future career.

As the State of Florida’s legislatively-designated “honors college for the liberal arts,” New College is the only public college or university in the state whose sole mission is to provide an undergraduate education of the highest caliber to leading students from around the country. Located on a beautiful 110-acre campus on sunny Sarasota Bay, New College provides an ideal learning environment for intellectually curious, motivated students who thrive on active learning and are drawn to an intellectually rigorous curriculum.

Year after year, New College faculty and students garner top prizes and awards. Our student-centered academic mission consistently attracts high rankings from the most prestigious organizations. We are recognized by the Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities (HACU) as an Associate Member Institution because at least 10% of our current students identify as Hispanic. Our alumnae/i earn distinctions in the workplace, contribute to scientific advancement and make contributions to public service and global change.

New College of Florida is a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states. New College is a proud member of the council of Public Liberal Arts College (COPLAC) and the Consortium for Innovative Environments in learning (CIEL).