Did you know that Savannah State University Marine Research Lab is making waves in marine science? It is a place where research meets real-world impact. Here at the Savannah State University Marine Research Lab, the focus is clear. It is all about coastal and ocean ecosystem health. Environmental quality and fisheries sustainability are key too.
Savannah State University’s Marine Sciences Program is not just about research. It is about education and outreach. The goal is to build a community of problem solvers. People who can creatively answer questions about our oceans.
Since 1979, Savannah State University has excelled in marine sciences. The B.S. program emphasizes marine ecology, water quality and fisheries. In 2002, they started the first M.S. degree program in Marine Sciences on the Georgia coast. Savannah State University is now number one in the nation. It leads in awarding African-American M.S. degrees in Marine Science. NOAA played a role, supplying the first research vessel, trawls and grabs.
Today, the marine science facilities are impressive. There is a 6000 square-foot marine biology building. It features a saltwater dock, a 60-foot floating section, and a wet-laboratory sea water supply. The lab also has three vessels. A 35-foot twin-diesel work boat, a Boston whaler and a pontoon boat.
Savannah State University has grown its faculty too. Since the LMRCSC was created, they added a faculty position. This brought the total to six. The university also boasts a two-year aquarium certification program. In 2010, a congressional appropriation boosted marine science education. It funded a new 36-foot diesel vessel and an on-campus boat launch.
The Marine Sciences Program at Savannah State University is making a difference. Black graduates make up only about 2% of all Marine Sciences degrees awarded from 2002-2017. Savannah State University is working hard to change this.
Savannah State University stands out in graduate employment too. Nationally, 36% of STEM bachelor’s graduates work in STEM fields. At Savannah State University, 71% of B.S. Marine Science graduates report STEM employment. For M.S. graduates, it jumps to 96%.
Savannah State University Marine Research Lab is a beacon of progress. It shapes a diverse community of marine scientists. They are ready to protect our oceans for future generations.