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
  • 32
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 3,304
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 9
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.9
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Imagine a world where every ripple narrates a tale of survival, where life unfolds in complex, colorful pageants beneath azure waves, and where tomorrow's mysteries invite today's explorers. Welcome to "Dive into the Depths: Exploring the World of Marine Biology"--where the vast ocean becomes your classroom and its many wonders your teachers.

The ocean is not just a body of water; it is the heartbeat of our planet. It breathes, it nurtures, and it inspires. Covering over 70% of the Earth, the ocean is home to a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of life forms--each entity, from the microscopic phytoplankton to the majestic whale, playing a role in the orchestration of global processes that sustain life as we know it. In this essential course, you will embark on an extraordinary journey that unveils the secrets of these magnificent waters and reveals how they shape our existence.

Are you ready to traverse these life-filled waters, to understand not just their beauty, but their vital importance? Without the oceans, the delicate balance of climate, the pattern of life, the very air we breathe, would falter. Here, you will uncover the life stories of the ocean's inhabitants, witnessing firsthand the adaptability and diversity that have enabled marine species to flourish across time.

Our meticulously designed course invites you to set sail on this enlightening voyage. While others may simply skim the surface, "Dive into the Depths" plunges you into an immersive learning experience where oceans transform from mere geography into a vivid narrative of life's history on Earth. Hearken to the stories of the creatures that have made these waters their playground. From graceful dolphins to the tenacious creatures dwelling in the dark abyss, the ocean is a bastion of survival and innovation.

Whether you're a passionate novice yearning to dive deeper into the world of marine biology or a seasoned explorer ready to unravel the ocean's intricacies, your curiosity will find its haven here. Our course offers a window into the oceanic underworld--a place where seemingly ordinary fish transform into iridescent wonders and where marine mammals stretch the limits of what is possible. Witness the delicate interplay between predator and prey, the ingenious adaptations of creatures residing in the planet's extremes, and the profound relationships binding disparate species within vast ecosystems.

But it's not just about the present--it's about a future we can shape. Our oceans are on the brink, facing threats from rising temperatures, acidification, and pollution. With every wave of knowledge you ride, you are better equipped to become an advocate for change. This course doesn't just arm you with facts; it instills a passion for preservation and a sense of duty to safeguard our marine heritage for generations to come.

The allure of marine biology extends beyond understanding--it's about transformation. It's about how the learnings from the tides can influence careers, develop new technologies, and inspire conservation efforts that transcend borders. You will gain insights that not only enhance your worldview but empower you to make impactful decisions whether in scientific fields, policy-making, education, or everyday life.

Join us on this exciting journey where oceans are the narrators, stories are endless, and you, the student, are the hero embarking on a grand quest. Dive into a narrative so grand it connects every living being on the planet. This is more than a course--it's a call to adventure, a plea for awareness, and an opportunity for profound growth. Enroll today and let the depths of marine biology enrich your life and career in ways you never thought possible. Together, we will explore, learn, and evolve for a better, bluer realm--dive in and be forever changed.

  • 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:
4.5 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(4,456 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
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-HomeWork-12097.pdf
  • 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
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-Downloadable-12098.pdf
  • 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. 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-Downloadable-12099.pdf
  • 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. 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-Downloadable-12100.pdf
  • 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. 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-HomeWork-12101.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Activity
  • 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. 31 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-WordSearch-12102.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Activity
  • 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. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-HomeWork-12103.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Marine Fishes
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

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. 31 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-Downloadable-12104.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 8: Marine Mammals
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

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. 21 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-9-HomeWork-12105.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

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. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-10-WordSearch-12106.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Tide Pools
  • Assessment: Lesson 10: Life at the Shore
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

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. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-Activity-12107.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 11: Estuaries
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

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. 21 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-12-Downloadable-12108.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 12 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam

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. 31 Total Points
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-13-WordSearch-12109.pdf
  • Complete: Lesson 13 Activity
  • Assessment: Lesson 13: Coral Reef Ecosystems
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Review Exam

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. 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-14-HomeWork-12110.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 14: Life in the Polar Oceans
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Review Exam

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. 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-15-HomeWork-12111.pdf
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Review Exam

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. 20 Total Points
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-16-HomeWork-12112.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Marine Organisms
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Review Exam

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. 85 Total Points
  • Lesson 17 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-17-WordSearch-12113.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Ocean Challenges; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments; Course Comments
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
  • Assessment: Lesson 17 Review Exam
484
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define key terms and concepts related to marine biology, including salinity, adaptation, and ecosystem dynamics, as evidenced by accurate identification and explanation in assessments.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems by analyzing scenarios of coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and melting polar ice and providing evidence-based predictions in group discussions.
  • Identify and analyze different types of tectonic plate boundaries and their associated features, including geological activity such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
  • Recognize and describe the processes of subduction and sea-floor spreading, illustrating their roles in shaping the ocean floor and contributing to tectonic activity.
  • Describe the process of thermohaline circulation and explain its importance in global climate regulation.
  • Identify the factors that cause the formation of rip currents and demonstrate how to safely escape them.
  • Describe the roles of photosynthesis and chemosynthesis in marine ecosystems by explaining how each process supports life.
  • Recognize the hierarchical structure of the Linnaean classification system by identifying each of the seven levels for marine organisms.
  • Define the role of filter-feeding invertebrates in maintaining marine water quality and explain the consequences of their population decline.
  • Describe how the movement and structural adaptations of invertebrates like jellyfish and arthropods contribute to their survival in various marine environments.
  • Identify the essential adaptations of marine birds, such as salt glands and waterproof feathers, that allow them to thrive in diverse oceanic conditions.
  • Recognize and classify the unique adaptations of different marine reptiles, such as sea turtles and sea snakes, that enable them to survive in aquatic environments.
  • Identify and describe the key body shapes of marine fish and how each form contributes to survival and adaptation in specific ocean environments
  • 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: 4.5 / 5 Stars (4,456 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is fully available online in all 50 states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It�s also offered in major English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.
Last Updated: May 2024
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.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
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.