Online Class: Marine Biology 101

Venture into the enigmatic depths of the oceans, spanning over most of the Earth's surface, and discover how life evolved and diversified in this saline cradle. This course covers essential topics, from ocean currents and marine geology to the ecological roles of various marine species and the urgent conservation challenges they face.

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  • 17
    Lessons
  • 22
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 68
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 9
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.9
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Dive into the Depths: Exploring the World of Marine Biology

Spanning over 70% of our planet's surface, the oceans are a vast, mysterious, and captivating realm teeming with life. Marine biology isn't just about understanding saltwater ecosystems, but unraveling the intricate tapestry of life that resides, thrives, and even orchestrates planetary processes within them. From the shimmering surface to the abyssal depths, every droplet of seawater holds a story of evolution, adaptation, and survival.

The genesis of life, according to scientists, took place in these saline expanses. Over epochs, life forms diversified and migrated to terra firma. Yet, some, like dolphins and whales, made a prodigious journey back into the marine embrace. One of the lesser-known marvels of our oceans is the microscopic phytoplankton. Despite their diminutive size, they play a colossal role in maintaining planetary health by producing a significant portion of the oxygen we breathe while also acting as a natural sink for carbon dioxide.

Oceans are the planet's lifeblood, with currents acting as arteries, transporting warmth and nutrients. Their dynamic nature, with evaporation and precipitation, orchestrates the global climate and weather patterns. The oceans' profound impact on global systems underscores the importance of understanding them.

Our meticulously designed course will take you on an enlightening journey:

  • Lesson 1: Oceanography Essentials: Set sail with a foundational understanding of the marine world.
  • Lesson 2: The Bedrock Beneath: Delve deep into marine geology and the oceans' underlying structures.
  • Lesson 3: Riding the Waves: Navigate the fascinating realm of marine currents and tides.
  • Lesson 4: Nomenclature Navigations: Discover the taxonomy of marine species.
  • Lesson 5 & 6: A classification voyage through invertebrates and vertebrates.
  • Lesson 7 & 8: Meet the fascinating marine fish and mammals that reign the oceans.
  • Lessons 9-11: Ecosystem Expeditions - Dive into diverse habitats, from coral kingdoms to serene estuaries.
  • Lessons 12 & 13: Coral Chronicles - Unravel the biology and ecosystems of coral reefs.
  • Lessons 14-16: Journey from the frigid polar oceans to the open seas and the dark, mysterious abyss.
  • Lesson 17: Heeding the Sirens: Address the contemporary challenges facing our oceans and the ways to safeguard their future.

You will encounter a plethora of life forms, from soaring marine birds and elusive reptiles to the myriad of fish that glide and dart through the oceanic expanses. Uncover the relationships, symbioses, and ecological intricacies that bind these creatures together in the vast marine biome. More importantly, become aware of the mounting threats these delicate ecosystems face.

Embark on this immersive odyssey and uncover the stories, secrets, and science of the oceans. Dive deep, for the tales of the seas are as boundless as the waters themselves. Join us, and let the waves of knowledge guide your voyage into the world of marine biology.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.45 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(4,451 votes)

Lesson 1. Exploring the Wonders: Delving into Marine Biology

Marine biology uncovers how saltwater ecosystems, from resilient coral reefs to nutrient-rich estuaries, play a pivotal role in supporting life's complexity and regulating Earth's climate. However, climate change, by accelerating global warming and ocean acidification, increasingly threatens both marine biodiversity and human reliance on ocean resources. 25 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Marine Biology; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Unveiling the Shifting Landscapes Beneath the Waves: A Deep Dive into Oceanic Geology

The dynamic ocean floor, with its mountains and trenches, showcases the vital geological processes that shape the planet and its ecosystems. Understanding these processes reveals how the movements of the Earth's crust have influenced both continents and the marine environment. 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Tides and Currents

Ekman Spirals and thermohaline circulation influence ocean layers and global climate, with the Global Conveyor Belt playing a key role. Climate change disruptions to this system could have far-reaching impacts, highlighting the importance of understanding ocean dynamics. Additional lesson topics: Waves, Tides and Currents 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. The Ocean's Hidden Riches: Unveiling the Diversity of Marine Species

Life in the ocean spans tremendous depths and diversity, with organisms employing photosynthesis using sunlight or chemosynthesis by converting chemicals from hydrothermal vents to sustain themselves, thus forming the foundational base of marine food webs. These processes maintain ecological balance, with algae blooms occasionally disrupting systems by depleting oxygen and causing detrimental 'dead zones' that threaten marine species. Additional lesson topics: Marine Taxonomy; The Classification of Living Things 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 4: What's in a Name?
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Invertebrates: Earth's Overwhelming Majority

Invertebrates constitute 95% of all animal species on Earth, playing essential roles in marine ecosystems from shallow pools to deep ocean trenches. Their adaptability allows for incredible diversity, ranging from stationary sponges to nimble octopuses. Additional lesson topics: Marine Invertebrates; The Several Types of Invertebrates 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 5: Invertebrates
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Vertebrates in the Ocean: The Backbone of Marine Biodiversity

Sea turtles and snakes highlight the varied adaptations of marine reptiles, from the nesting sea turtles to the oxygen-absorbing, semi-aquatic sea snakes. Each species fulfills crucial ecological roles, demonstrating the interplay and evolutionary demands of marine environments. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 6: Vertebrates
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Fish: Oceanic Pioneers

Marine fish, as early vertebrates, exhibit fascinating adaptations to diverse oceanic environments, highlighting their extensive evolutionary history and variety across over 33,000 species. Understanding their body shapes, coloration, and reproductive strategies reveals the intricate relationship between form, function, and survival in marine habitats. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Marine Fishes

Lesson 8. Living Wonders of the Sea

Living in a watery realm, marine mammals possess unique adaptations like vasodilation and echolocation, allowing them to regulate temperature and navigate effectively while contributing to oceanic biodiversity. Despite their evolutionary success, challenges such as human activities and climate impacts continue to threaten their habitats and survival. Additional lesson topics: List of Marine Mammals 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Marine Mammals

Lesson 9. Unraveling Ocean Layers: From Sunlit Waters to Midnight Depths

Biomes are large habitats defined by their climate, flora, and fauna, with marine biomes covering over 70% of Earth's surface, home to diverse ecosystems like coral reefs and tidal pools. Understanding their complex interdependence helps us conserve biodiversity vital to ecosystem resilience. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 9: Marine Ecosystems

Lesson 10. Adaptation Strategies of Intertidal Zone Life

Organisms in the intertidal zone adopt unique behavioral, biological, and morphological adaptations to survive the ever-changing and extreme conditions of the shoreline. Their presence not only maintains biodiversity but also bridges energy flow between terrestrial and marine ecosystems through intricate food webs and ecological interactions. Additional lesson topics: Tide Pools 9 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Tide Pools
  • Assessment: Lesson 10: Life at the Shore

Lesson 11. Complex Dynamics, Simple Essence: Understanding Estuaries

Distinctive features, such as brackish water and varying salinity, make estuaries some of the most fertile environments, supporting a variety of species. Recognizing their ecological importance, efforts to protect estuaries are crucial in defending coastlines and promoting biodiversity. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: 8900066rz51138.png
  • Assessment: Lesson 11: Estuaries

Lesson 12. Essential Coral Reef Biology

Coral reefs are intricate ecosystems, predominantly in tropical regions, where marine life thrives through delicate, symbiotic relationships. Their survival is threatened by environmental changes, prompting urgent conservation efforts to protect these biodiverse habitats. Additional lesson topics: Coral Reef Biology 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 12: Coral Reef Biology

Lesson 13. Coral Reefs: Nature’s Underwater Marvels

Coral reefs, renowned for their beauty, host diverse marine life within a delicately balanced ecosystem, dependent on symbiotic relationships like that between corals and zooxanthellae. These reefs face threats from climate change and pollution, challenging efforts to preserve their ecological and economic contributions. Additional lesson topics: Reef Ecosystems 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 13: Coral Reef Ecosystems

Lesson 14. Life's Adaptations to the Polar Ice

As the Arctic oscillates between its icy ocean basin and encircling continents, it supports land animals and dynamic sea ice ecosystems. On the other hand, Antarctica's ice-laden landmass meets the ocean, fostering marine life but harboring scarcely any land-based fauna. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 14: Life in the Polar Oceans

Lesson 15. Vast Ocean, Sparse Life

The Epipelagic Zone, full of sunlight, supports photosynthesis and a rich food web initiated by phytoplankton, with life flourishing as far down as 200 meters. Below it, the Mesopelagic Zone, or Twilight Zone, gets minimal light, forcing creatures to develop bioluminescent adaptations. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 15: The Open Sea

Lesson 16. The Hidden World of the Benthic Zone

Deeper oceanic realms, devoid of sunlight and subjected to harsh conditions, harbor life forms like anglerfish and rattails that have evolved unique survival mechanisms, including bioluminescence. Hydrothermal vents create mineral-rich oases powered by chemosynthesis, supporting a distinctive ecosystem of bacteria, tubeworms, and predators. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Marine Organisms
  • Assessment: Lesson 16: Life in the Ocean's Depth

Lesson 17. A Comprehensive Guide to Oceans in Jeopardy: The Threats We Face

Marine environments are under siege from human activities, with rapid changes threatening biodiversity and economic stability. By fostering global collaboration and deploying conservation strategies, we can work toward restoring these vital ecosystems. Additional lesson topics: The Ocean's Problems 85 Total Points
  • Lesson 17 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Ocean Challenges; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments; Course Comments
  • Assessment: Lesson 17: Oceans in Jeopardy
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
338
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define what marine biology is and why it is important to study.
  • Describe geology and the ocean, currents and tides.
  • Understanding the nomenclature of marine biology
  • Identify invertebrates of the marine environment.
  • Identify vertebrates of the marine environment.
  • Identify marine fish.
  • Identify marine mammals.
  • Describe marine ecosystems.
  • Summarize what estuaries are and why they are important.
  • Summarize coral reef biology and ecosystems.
  • Describe life in the polar oceans and the open sea.
  • Describe life in the ocean's depth and its future with the human race.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Marine Biology 101
Course Number: 8900066
Lessons Rating: 4.45 / 5 Stars (4,451 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: May 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.9 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Proctor: UniversalClass Instructional Team
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I thoroughly enjoyed the course and I have learned a lot. I will most definitely recommend the course to all of my friends that want to improve their knowledge on marine biology or just want to learn more about our oceans." -- Carmen T.
  • "The Instructor was very responsive and prompt with feedback. The study material was detailed and well-organized. As a senior citizen (age 76) I really welcomed a challenge. I have studied Ecology, Chemistry, and Geology with this instructor." -- Judith J.
  • "The instructor was prompt and the course was challenging and interesting." -- Abby H.
  • "Love the course material and the instructor was also helpful and fast to grade." -- Francinne A.
  • "I thoroughly enjoyed all the information that was presented in the course." -- Kathy W.
  • "Outstanding course. I really enjoyed taking it." -- Matthew G.
  • "Really enjoyed the course and learnt a lot." -- Ann R.
  • "VERY good instructor and course." -- Ruth M.
  • "Great instructor!" -- Melanie H.
  • "This was a very interesting course. I enjoyed learning about marine biology. I would sit at dinner with my husband and children and tell them an interesting fact I had learned that day." -- Victoria L.