Students in the Marine Policy Program develop expertise in the theory and practice of policy and governance, policy analysis, and policy research related to the management and protection of marine resources, ocean and coastal ecosystems, and coupled natural-human environments.

The Marine Policy Program examines the economic, legal, political, and social aspects of the world ocean, the seabed, and the coastal zone. Students and faculty in the program analyze public issues regarding the law of the sea, ports and shipping, marine minerals, ocean and coastal zone management, fisheries, Naval affairs, marine biotechnology, and the global environment, frequently making recommendations for policy at the regional, national, and international level.

The Master’s Degree in Marine Policy (M.M.P.) prepares students for careers in research, management, and administration in marine-oriented government agencies, private associations and business firms. The M.M.P. provides graduate students with post-baccalaureate training in policy analysis and coastal and ocean management to be competitive for positions in the public and private sectors and for matriculating into Ph.D. programs.