Career Pathways
Click on each image for more information about highschool coursework, classes to take at Cal Poly and ways to get experience for each career!
Investigate the ocean’s organisms, ecosystems, and/or its chemical and physical environment through fieldwork, lab work, or a mix of both.
Marine Research includes...
- Marine Biology
- Physical Oceanography
- Chemical oceanography
- and more!
Investigate and survey plots on the ocean floor using remote sensing or SCUBA diving to understand and preserve underwater historical sites.
Day-to-day jobs include...
- Conduct remote sensing at sea
- Drive a boat to field sites
- Maintain or repair equipment
- Write grants and reports
Design ways to develop and preserve coastal areas by combining the principles of civil engineering with an understanding of oceanographic sciences.
Good fit if you like...
- Creativity and critical thinking
- Teamwork and communication
- Technical skills in math and physics
Prepare educational material about the ocean, marine science, and environmental stewardship, plan conservation outreach events, and organize community restoration.
Organizations that hire include...
- Academic research institutions
- Aquariums
- Marine sanctuaries
Conduct inspections and patrol on shore and at-sea to ensure proper fisheries management and adherence to marine laws for the conservation of marine species and their environment.
Organization that hire include...
- EPA, NOAA
- The Costal Guard
- State fish and wildlife departments
Live aboard a fishing vessel, collecting data on what is caught and discarded as well as supporting fishing and safety compliance onboard.
This job can become a career OR a great first step into...
- Commercial fishing
- Field research
- Environmental law
Aquatic Veterinarians provide medical diagnoses and care for the wellbeing of fish and aquatic animals.
Aquatic Vets work at...
- Zoos or aquariums
- Marine rehabilitation centers
- Research Institutions
Manage the breeding, raising, and farming of finfish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants for human use.
Aquaculture combines ...
- Marine science
- Agriculture
- Business
- Data management