Marine Biology College Scholarships

Biologists study the ways that living organisms relate to their natural environments. Marine biologists focus on saltwater organisms. Bachelor's and master's degrees in marine biology prepare graduates for jobs in product development and applied research. A Ph.D. is needed for positions in independent research and academia, notes the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS. Scholarships for marine biology majors can help defray some of the expense of undergraduate and graduate study.

The Marine Technology Society is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote the understanding and advancement of marine technology. Toward that end, the society offers a number of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students majoring in marine biology and related fields such as oceanography. Student members of the society are eligible for awards in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Graduating high school seniors who intend to major in marine biology can apply for a $2,000 scholarship.

Undergraduate and graduate marine biology majors at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington can apply for a number of scholarships. Awards are in amounts ranging from $500 to $3,500. Recipients are selected based on factors including grades, leadership potential and financial need. Students interested in receiving an award submit one application to the university's biology department listing all of the scholarships they want to be considered for.

Marine biology majors can apply for a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the Central California Council of Diving Clubs, or Cen Cal. The scholarship is given to a student who is focusing her studies on underwater habitats. Applicants must be California residents at least 18 years of age. They must have a GPA of at least 3.0 and be certified divers; one recommendation letter should be submitted to Cen Cal along with official school transcripts.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, administers the Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program. The program supports graduate research in marine biology and oceanography. Four scholarships are awarded annually; the award includes a $30,000 stipend, $12,000 education allowance and $10,000 for research at a NOAA facility. Full-time master's and doctoral candidates are eligible to apply; applicants are assessed on the basis of criteria including academic ability, recommendations and financial need. Female and minority students are encouraged to apply.