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How much do Marine Biologist get payed on average and is it worth it?

What type of degree do you need?

biology marine-biology zoology wildlife biologist wildlife-biology
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Matt’s Answer

Salary questions are hard to answer - there are lots of websites like glassdoor and salary.com but the range is not very helpful. My son’s girlfriend is training to be a marine biologist in California and it seems like it is quite a competitive field and the salaries are not crazy high - she is probably going to do a PhD to stand out and get into research. BUT - the salary is not the thing I would focus on - if you love marine biology then you might have found something that you should just do. Way too many people make the mistake of chasing salaries and put their loves and passions aside. If you love something all the research says you are way more likely to succeed and have a much better quality of life. If you don’t love it I would not do it - since you might fall out of college (with debt) because you find it boring. But if you love it dive straight in. You could also see if there are places near where you live to volunteer so you can meet Marine Biologists and find out more.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for your encouragement! Angelina
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Thank you comment icon 100% agree with the advice to not chase salaries. The money will come if you are persistent and good at what you choose to do. Justine Patterson
Thank you comment icon 100% agree with the above. I am a huge advocate of "Do what you love, and the money will come". Assess your values, if you love Marine Bio than it is worth it, you get paid for a job you love. Michelle Shields
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Justine’s Answer

I looked this up and according to a few different sources, the AVERAGE MEDIAN salary is anywhere from $55,000 to $70,000 per year. The range is broad and based on your specializations, locations, and years of experience.

Only you can decide if it's worth it! Remember...your major and career you choose now does not have to be for the rest of your life. You can pivot as many times as you need to.

To study a subject like marine biology, you will want to consider a college that is coastal or located by the water. This will allow you to get hands on experience in this field! You will typically need a Bachelor of Science at minimum. The title of the major you choose will depend on the university you go to.

Good luck to you!!! Marine biology sounds very exciting!
Thank you comment icon This was super helpful, thank you! Angelina
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