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First, note that marine science is a bit of a misnomer at Alabama. Although concentrations are available in chemical and geological oceanography, marine biology/biological oceanography is the only concentration offered in any real depth. </p>
<p>Additionally, like many other colleges, virtually all of Alabama’s marine science courses are offered during summer sessions at its marine lab. Relevant courses during the year in Tuscaloosa are therefore fairly sparse. This is very different from, say, Miami, which has its world-class labs and facilities much closer to campus. </p>
<p>I have always emphasized the primacy of basic science coursework over marine science courses, and I do not view either caveat as a huge issue. Additionally, Dauphin Island has a pretty good reputation. Not quite up there with the Florida universities or Texas A&M, but it’s certainly reputable. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, I know very little about the program at Jacksonville. An average Jacksonville applicant would do well to consider Eckerd, which is only slightly more selective and pound for pound has produced an astonishing number of marine scientists.</p>