COAST PSM: A Professional Science Master's Program in Marine Science and Technology

Today's professionals in the maritime sectors of industry, government, and non-governmental organizations are expected to develop policy and planning options, while managing both living and non-living marine resources based upon the best available science and technology. Similarly, technologists, engineers, and scientists are faced with managing personnel, funds, and businesses in increasingly challenging fiscal and policy environments. A new type of Master's degree in Marine Science and Technology has been recently initiated by the University of Massachusetts. The Professional Science Master's degree for Coastal and Ocean Administration, Science, and Technology or COAST PSM, is a two-year non-thesis Master's program with the final summer being spent in an internship. COAST PSM blends a study of science and engineering with elective coursework in management, policy, economics, and law and provides strong emphasis on writing and communication skills. COAST PSM students acquire skills and knowledge that will prepare them for entry and mid-career level and technical positions in industry, academia, and government as well as providing industry and government with people targeted to their specific requirements. The current curriculum is a blended combination of on-line and face-to-face in-room classes, with the latter scheduled early and late in the day to accommodate working students. There are also plans underway to expand the selection of courses available on-line. Focus areas of study are specifically aimed at developing skills needed for careers in the Department of Defense and supporting civilian laboratories and private companies, the oil, gas, and construction industries, fisheries management, and environmental assessment and remediation organizations.