We’re dedicated to keeping our program small so that we can dedicate attention to you

Begun in 2000, APU’s marine biology program provides our students with knowledge, skills and abilities to understand and scientifically manage oceans and their resources.

We remain distinct by enrolling small groups of students at the graduate and undergraduate level so that we may offer rigorous scientific training through innovative teaching. We’re committed to integrating research across the curriculum as we strive to become the Alaska-based program of choice for marine science professionals.

Our students learn to work cooperatively with each other, the marine biology faculty, and other professionals at all stages of the academic career through practical experiences in the field and laboratory.

We research and produce top-tier scientific publications as best methods to train undergraduates to become professionals in Alaska and throughout the world. Marine biology at APU supports sustainable management of Alaska’s living marine resources.

Our program thrives in a state with more coastline – 36,000 miles of it – than any other coastal state. Alaska’s unique features and challenges are central to APU’s project-based learning, where field-intensive courses challenge our students to think critically.

Marine Biology Program faculty and staff

Leslie Cornick, Ph.D., Marine Physiology Ecology Lab
Brad Harris, Ph.D., Applied Fisheries Science Lab
David Scheel, Ph.D., Benthic Behavioral Ecology Lab
Robin Bartlett, administrative assistant, marine biology program
Scott Anderson, dive safety officer