The PhD degree in Marine Biology is a joint degree program with Texas A&M University, Texas A&M University Galveston Campus and Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. The program is interdisciplinary, involving courses and linking faculty from the TAMU Colleges of Science (SCI), Agriculture and Life Sciences (COALS), Geosciences (GEOS), TAMU Galveston Campus (TAMUG) and TAMU-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC).

Work leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is designed to give the candidate a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of his or her professional field and training in methods of research. The final basis for granting the degree shall be the candidate’s grasp of the subject matter of a broad field of study and a demonstrated ability to do independent research. In addition, the candidate must have acquired the ability to express thoughts clearly and forcefully in both oral and written languages. The degree is not granted solely for the completion of coursework, residence and technical requirements, although these must be met.