Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Gloucester Point, United States of America

VIMS, part of William & Mary, is a world leader in marine and coastal research, offering comprehensive programs in graduate education, research, and advisory services. It plays a vital role in studying and solving issues facing coastal ecosystems.
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Tuition Fees, Cost of Living & Accommodation at Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Cost Of Living

$ 18900

Undergraduate Fees International Students

$ 43442

Post Graduate Fees International Students

$ 44500

Bachelors

  • $ 43442
  • $ 43442
  • $ 43442
  • $ 43442

Virginia Institute of Marine Science Departments

  • Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology
  • Coastal Resources Management
  • Coastal & Ocean Processes
  • Ecosystem Health
  • Natural Resources

Distinguished Alumni of Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Step-by-Step Guide to Admission Requirements at Virginia Institute of Marine Science

1. Unofficial Transcript

Provide your most recent academic transcript, which may be unofficial at the time of application. Official transcripts will be requested if your application progresses. Ensure that all post-secondary coursework is included.

2. Essay Responses

Complete 4–5 essay questions, each up to 200 words, addressing various aspects of your interest in marine science and your suitability for the program. These essays are a critical component of the holistic review process. 

3. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Submit a current resume or CV detailing your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to marine science.

4. Academic Planner

Complete the first page of the Academic Planner, which outlines your intended course schedule and academic goals. While additional pages are optional, they can provide further insight into your academic planning. 

5. Interview

Participate in an interview with the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs and Director of Undergraduate Programs. This interview is an opportunity to discuss your interests, experiences, and aspirations in marine science. 

6. Application Fee

Pay a non-refundable application fee of $44 USD. The application is considered incomplete until this fee is paid or waived.

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Virginia Institute of Marine Science Corporate Partnership

  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration : VIMS and NOAA have a longstanding partnership focused on coastal and marine research. Collaborations include joint research initiatives, data sharing, and the development of tools for managing coastal resources. This partnership enhances VIMS's capacity to address complex environmental challenges through federal support and expertise.
  • Virginia Sea Grant : Virginia Sea Grant, in partnership with VIMS, achieved College Status in 2013, the highest accreditation level of the National Sea Grant Program. This recognition underscores their joint commitment to marine research, education, and outreach, focusing on sustainable coastal development and resource management
  • Virginia Department of Environmental Quality : VIMS partners with the Virginia DEQ to monitor and manage water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. This collaboration involves joint research projects, data collection, and the development of strategies to improve water quality and protect aquatic habitats.
  • Virginia Marine Resources Commission : The VMRC works closely with VIMS on fisheries management, habitat restoration, and regulatory compliance. This partnership ensures that scientific research informs policy decisions and that marine resources are managed sustainably for future generations
  • Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation : VIPC collaborates with VIMS to support innovation and commercialization of marine technologies. Through this partnership, VIMS researchers have access to resources that facilitate the development and deployment of new technologies aimed at addressing environmental challenges
  • JASON Learning : JASON Learning partners with VIMS to engage students in marine science education through programs like the "Beyond the Plastic Bottle Challenge." This collaboration fosters environmental stewardship among young learners and encourages innovative solutions to marine pollution
  • Virginia Biotechnology Association : VIMS collaborates with VABIO to promote the application of biotechnology in marine science. This partnership supports research in areas such as aquaculture, environmental monitoring, and the development of biotechnological solutions to marine challenges
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Notable Achievements of Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Achievements

01.
Oyster Restoration Success

VIMS has been instrumental in restoring oyster populations in the Chesapeake Bay. Through research and conservation efforts, VIMS has contributed to the recovery of oyster habitats, enhancing biodiversity and water quality in the region.

Year
ongoing
02.
$8 Million NOAA Grant for Coastal Resilience

In 2024, VIMS received an $8 million grant from NOAA, marking the largest single grant in its 83-year history. This funding supports a four-year program aimed at enhancing coastal resilience through improved water quality monitoring and habitat restoration. The project underscores VIMS's leadership in addressing climate change impacts on coastal ecosystems

Year
2024
03.
$100 Million Donation for Climate Change Research

In 2024, VIMS received a $100 million donation from philanthropist Jane Batten to study climate change impacts. The funding supports infrastructure improvements and the establishment of new research positions, reinforcing VIMS's commitment to addressing global environmental challenges

Year
2024

Notable Innovation, Research & Development Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Notable Innovation

01.
Seagrass Restoration Efforts

VIMS has been at the forefront of seagrass restoration, with efforts leading to the restoration of over 6,000 acres of seagrass beds in coastal bays. These restoration projects have been among the most successful globally, highlighting VIMS's commitment to marine habitat conservation

Year
ongoing
02.
Spawnless Oyster Development

Professor Stan Allen of VIMS was honored with the Inventor of the Year Award by the New Jersey Inventors Hall of Fame in 2013 for his development of a method to produce spawnless oysters. This innovation has revolutionized aquaculture by creating oysters that do not spawn, thereby extending their marketable lifespan and improving sustainability in oyster farming. The spawnless oyster has become a significant advancement in aquaculture, offering economic and ecological benefits

Year
2013
03.
Real-Time Data Buoy

VIMS developed the NOMAD (Nutrient, Oxygen, and Microbial Activity Detector) real-time data buoy system to monitor water quality in the Chesapeake Bay. This system provides continuous, real-time data on various water quality parameters, aiding in the management and preservation of the estuarine ecosystem. The NOMAD buoy system has been instrumental in advancing environmental monitoring and research in coastal waters.Environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional buoys to minimize ocean pollution.

Year
2000

Explore Programs & Courses at Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Program name
Tuition Fees
Deadlines
BS Marine Science 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
$34978
(Annual Fees)
15th Jan
MA in Marine Science 2 Years On Campus Masters Program
$34978
(Annual Fees)
15th Jan
MS in Marine Science 2 Years On Campus Masters Program
$34978
(Annual Fees)
15th Jan
MS Marine Science Bypass Option 2 Years On Campus Masters Program
$34978
(Annual Fees)
15th Jan

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