Marine biology concerns the study of marine life in the ocean as well as in saltwater environments such as wetlands, estuaries, creeks, bays, and inlets. Marine biologists study plants, animals, and the water itself in order to better understand the relationship between organisms and their environment.

A bachelor's degree is given to students who fulfill the necessary requirements given by the college or university they are attending. The requirements include three to seven years of focus on a subject, typically referred to as a major or concentration.