CCU Graduate School

Fall semester starts tomorrow

Today, graduate assistants from across Coastal gathered for training and preparation for the semester ahead.

Graduate assistants play an important role across campus while pursuing their own graduate degrees. Through assistantships, they gain hands-on professional experience while supporting teaching, research, student services, and university operations.

Graduate student orientation.

Where can a Ph.D. in Education Sciences take you? 🎓

Graduates pursue leadership, research, and administrative roles across educational settings, applying advanced expertise in teaching, learning, policy, organizational leadership, and assessment.

These positions highlight how doctoral study develops the skills needed to conduct meaningful research, evaluate educational practices, and lead initiatives that improve outcomes for students, educators, and institutions.

As education continues to evolve, professionals with expertise in research, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making play a vital role in shaping schools, colleges, and learning organizations.

Examples of career paths and earning potential may vary based on experience, location, and role.
Data provided by Lightcast (50th percentile salary estimates).

Where can a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies take you? 🎓

Graduates pursue careers across a variety of fields, applying advanced skills in research, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving to professional and community settings.

These roles highlight how interdisciplinary study prepares professionals to analyze complex issues, synthesize information, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.

By designing an individualized course of study, students develop expertise aligned with their interests and goals while building versatile skills that translate across industries and career paths.

Examples of career paths and earning potential may vary based on experience, location, and role.
Data provided by Lightcast (50th percentile salary estimates).

Another orientation season has come to a close.

This summer, we welcomed new students to Coastal, many of whom may one day continue their academic journey through a master’s or Ph.D. program.

As the summer comes to an end, we’re continuing our own transition—from the College of Graduate and Continuing Studies to The Graduate School.

During orientation, we gave away our last pocket memo pads, and other CGCS items.

Here’s to celebrating where we’ve been and looking ahead to what’s next.

Stay tuned for more.

Where can a Ph.D. in Marine Science take you? 🌊

Graduates pursue careers in research, education, environmental management, and scientific leadership—applying advanced knowledge to better understand and protect marine and coastal ecosystems.

These roles highlight how doctoral training develops expertise in research design, data analysis, fieldwork, and scientific communication while addressing complex environmental challenges.

As coastal communities face evolving issues related to climate, conservation, and resource management, marine scientists play a critical role in generating knowledge that informs policy, stewardship, and sustainable solutions.

Examples of career paths and earning potential may vary based on experience, location, and role.
Data provided by Lightcast (50th percentile salary estimates).

Congratulations to Payton Merica for successfully completing her Master of Science in Coastal Marine and Wetland Studies thesis defense today.

Merica’s thesis, titled A Comprehensive Evaluation of River Plume Region Classification Methods
Using In-Situ Data, proposed a new method for identifying near field and far field regions of river plumes, and compared this method to those used previously. Identifying plume regions can allow us to better understand how river waters interact with the ocean.

Merica was advised by Diane Fribance, Ph.D., Erin Hackett, Ph.D., and Louis Keiner, Ph.D. (Seen left to right in the photo with Merica, second from the left.)

Where can a Master of Education in Instructional Technology take you? 🎓

Graduates pursue careers focused on integrating technology, improving learning experiences, and supporting effective instructional practices across educational settings.

These roles highlight how instructional technology combines teaching expertise with innovative tools and strategies to enhance learner engagement, performance, and professional productivity.

As technology continues to shape education, professionals who can effectively bridge pedagogy and technology play an increasingly important role in supporting student success and organizational goals.

Examples of career paths and earning potential may vary based on experience, location, and role.
Data provided by Lightcast (50th percentile salary estimates).