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Online Course
Marine Ecology II : Coastal Ecology and Marine Conservation
Duration
12
weeks
Program Dates
Time Commitment
Format
Class Size
2 hours per week
Online
3-15 students
Section one:
Mar 24- Jun 20, 2025
Section two:
Sep 23 - Dec 09, 2025
Tuition
$385
Save up to $200 with a NOA membership
Enrollment closes 1 week prior to the start date
Course Frequency
Mondays and Wednesdays 11 am PT
Optional Extra
Age
Scholarships available
All Ages
Course Introduction
Welcome to Marine Ecology II: Coastal Ecology and Marine Conservation. This advanced course delves into the intricate dynamics of coastal ecosystems and the pressing challenges they face. Over the span of twenty-four classes, you will explore the fundamental processes shaping our coastlines, from plate tectonics to the impacts of human activities such as pollution and habitat degradation. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of coastal environments, examining how these areas interact with broader oceanic systems and the strategies needed for effective marine conservation.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this course you’ll be able to:
Understand the fundamental geological and environmental processes shaping coastal and marine ecosystems.
Gain insights into the impacts of human activities, including pollution and invasive species, on coastal environments and marine food webs.
Analyze the effects of climate change, such as sea level rise and ocean acidification, on coastal and marine ecosystems.
Learn about conservation strategies and management practices for protecting coastal systems and marine protected areas.
Apply theoretical knowledge to practical issues through research project presentations, showcasing your grasp of marine ecology and conservation.
Is This Course for Me?
Have humans impacted the Earth and the oceans? How do animals behave and why? What does marine and terrestrial conservation do to protect our oceans and planet? This course is perfect for students studying marine biology, coastal ecology, environmental science, or related disciplines who seek to deepen their knowledge of coastal ecosystems and conservation practices. It is also ideal for professionals in marine conservation, environmental management, or coastal research looking to expand their understanding of the impacts of climate change, pollution, and human activity on marine environments. Anyone passionate about preserving and understanding the health of our coastlines and marine ecosystems will find this course highly relevant and engaging.
Earn Your Certification
Demonstrate your expertise with an official NOA Academy certification. Upon successfully completing a program, you’ll receive a digital certificate detailing your achievement, including the course title and your name. This verified credential is ready to be added to your LinkedIn profile, academic applications, and professional portfolios, signaling your commitment to specialized knowledge and skill development.
Course Curriculum
This curriculum is meticulously designed to provide an in-depth exploration of coastal and marine conservation issues. Over twenty-four engaging classes, you will investigate the processes and challenges affecting coastal environments, from the geological factors like plate tectonics to the impacts of human activities such as pollution and habitat destruction.
The course covers a wide range of topics, including the effects of plastics and chemicals on ocean food webs, the implications of ocean acidification, and the consequences of global atmospheric phenomena such as El Niño. You will also explore the ecological impacts of eutrophication, marine light and sound pollution, and the challenges of invasive species.
In addition to understanding the current state of coastal systems, the course emphasizes conservation and management strategies. Topics include the resilience of coral reefs, the management of marine protected areas, and case studies of coastal degradation and hypoxic zones.
Prepare to embark on a journey through the complex interactions of coastal and marine environments, equipping yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to address contemporary conservation challenges and safeguard the health of our oceans. Here is a detailed breakdown of the topics we will cover: