Graduate Student Programs
The Duke Marine Lab hosts several distinct graduate student populations pursuing their degrees through different departments. Details on these degree programs are below; please contact the individuals identified for additional information on each program.
Professional Masters Degree in Environmental Management
The Master of Environmental Management (MEM) degree is offered through Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment. The MEM degree trains students to understand the scientific basis of environmental problems, as well as the social, political and economic factors that determine effective policy options. Students opting for a MEM degree in Coastal Environmental Management spend the first year in Durham fulfilling required course work; the second year is typically spent at the Marine Lab, where further course work and a Masters Project are completed.
For additional information about the CEM program contact CEM program director, Dr. Mike Orbach at mko@duke.edu or 252-504-7606.
Doctoral Program and Master of Arts or Master of Science
The PhD degree is offered through the Duke Graduate School via the Division of Marine Science and Conservation, the University Program in Ecology, or the Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health Program. Approximately five Ph.D. candidates are accepted each year.
For additional information on the PhD degree please visit our PhD Degree page or contact Rachel Lo Piccolo, Assistant to the Director of Graduate Studies at rachel.lopiccolo@duke.edu or 252-504-7585.
An academic MS or MA is granted only under very special circumstances. Do not confuse this with the Professional Masters Degree in Environmental Management (MEM) degree. Acceptance as an academic master's (MS/MA) candidate is contingent upon finding a Marine Laboratory faculty member willing to sponsor you. Should you find a faculty sponsor, submit your application directly to the Duke Graduate School.
WHOI-Duke University Fellowship in Marine Conservation
The WHOI Marine Mammal Center
and the Duke University Marine Laboratory announce a fellowship program
for graduate students at either institution studying marine
conservation, particularly marine mammal conservation, to apply to
conduct research or to take courses at the other institution. Students
in any/all programs or departments are eligible for the program, though
the project/courses must involve the conservation of marine resources.
