Degree Programs

Degree Requirements for the MPS

The Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science at the University of Miami offers a Master of Professional Science Program in the disciplines of Applied Marine Physics, Marine Affairs and Policy, Marine Biology and Fisheries, Marine and Atmospheric Chemistry, Marine Geology and Geophysics, or Meteorology and Physical Oceanography. The MPS program is designed to allow students to pursue advanced training in science while also developing highly-valued professional skills that prepare students for science careers in business, government, or nonprofit organizations. The program allows students to obtain a Masters degree in a fixed period of time (two semesters of coursework followed by a 3-6 month internship) and offers advanced training in marine and atmospheric science applicable to topics such as the coastal zone and the development of marine resources. The MPS degree does not require a thesis. It is primarily intended for students who are not interested in continuing on for a Ph.D., but rather seek to strengthen their academic background by developing the skills and obtaining the experience necessary for entry to mid-level positions in science-related fields. For full-time students, the MPS degree can be completed in as little as 12 months.

Prerequisite

Students admitted into the program must have earned a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field.

Credit Requirements

Twenty-four graduate course credits and a six credit internship with a written report are required for the Master of Professional Science. A grade point average of 3.0 or better must be maintained. All students are required to take at least one course outside the division of residence. Comprehensive Examination An oral and written comprehensive examination is required of all students. In the event of a failure, a student may be reexamined once, upon the recommendation of the student’s advisory committee and at the discretion of the faculty of the Division. If granted, the reexamination must be given before the end of the following semester. Students who fail the re-examination are subject to dismissal from the School.