WHEREAS, The State of Delaware and the University of Delaware have rich traditions connected to the marine environment and the study of marine science; and

WHEREAS, We are a coastal state and as such, it is imperative to have a citizenry that is well versed in the issues that impact our marine and coastal areas; and

WHEREAS, there are currently limited opportunities for undergraduate students to study marine ecosystems, species and the rich biodiversity in the region; and

WHEREAS, A Marine Science degree with a concentration in Marine Biology best reflects the interdisciplinary nature of the field, and is philosophically consistent with our graduate academic programs; and

WHEREAS, the Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science provides students with a solid academic foundation and a complementary pathway for success for entrance into graduate programs or careers in the field; and

WHEREAS, the Marine Programs within CEOE are internationally renowned academic programs taught by faculty that are leaders in the field, the Undergraduate Major capitalizes on this valuable resource and provides undergraduate students with an intellectually rigorous experience enabling them to emerge as the next generation of leaders; be it therefore

RESOLVED, that the Faculty Senate approves provisionally, for five years, the establishment of a new major entitled Bachelor of Science in Marine Science with a concentration in Marine Biology effective February 7, 2011.