Coastal Ecology & Conservation

Coastal Ecology and Conservation at USCB

Patrick Jones on Boat

Patrick Jones, a student in USCB’s Computational Science MS Program is helping Dr. Eric Montie’s Marine Sensory and Neurobiology Lab analyze large data sets from water samples collected from the May River in Bluffton and recordings of marine life.

The Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Coastal Ecology and Conservation serves the need for trained coastal scientists with knowledge and skills required to address the unique problems facing coastal ecosystems. USCB is well positioned to exploit the unique physical and ecological characteristics of the Sea Islands Coastal Region for the training of our students in the protection of the local environment. Research opportunities include:

  • Working with underwater recordings to explore the behavior of snapping shrimp, spawning patterns of fish, foraging patterns and communication of bottlenose dolphins
  • Work at Nemours Plantation, Waddell Mariculture Center and Port Royal Sound Foundation 
  • Opportunities with Beaufort County 

Coastal Ecology Boat


Program of Study

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Ecology boat and student

For more information about USCB's program in Coastal Ecology and Conservation, please contact us at biology@uscb.edu

Denia Lopez
“Growing up on the coast has influenced my fascination with and passion for aquatic ecosystems. Being a Latina in STEM can be intimidating at times, but at USCB I've learned how to confidently utilize a research lab and have had countless opportunities to go into the field for hands-on experiences. The confidence, motivation and knowledge I've gained from faculty and my peers have encouraged me to pursue outside opportunities I might not have otherwise considered.”
Denia Lopez
Biology major, Concentration in Coastal Ecology and Conservation, Class of 2024