Welcome to the Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science. This page will guide you through your first-semester registration. Whether you're just starting college or navigating this process on your own, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Most full-time students take 4–5 classes (14–17 credits), which includes 1–2 labs. Your schedule may include:
A science course with lab (based on your major) A mathematics course (based on placement) A writing course (WRS 105 or higher) An elective or course toward a cognate
You will meet with an academic advisor during Orientation. Use this page as a starting point, and bring your questions to that meeting!
Credit Transfer & Exams
If you have AP, IB, A-Level, CLEP, dual enrollment, or transfer credit, make sure your official scores and transcripts are sent to:
University of Miami Office of Admission P.O. Box 249117 Coral Gables, FL 33124-9117
Once processed, check CaneLink to confirm everything has been recorded correctly. If you’re transferring in credit without a direct UM equivalent (like a “100T” code), you'll need to submit a MATES form with a syllabus for departmental evaluation.
Math & Writing Placement
Math Placement
If you don’t already have college credit for math, you must take the ALEKS placement test. This ensures you're placed in the correct math course for your major.
Writing Placement
Students typically take WRS 105 and either ENG 106, WRS 106, or WRS 107. If you have credit for one, you may only need to take the other.
Recommended Courses by Major
Each Rosenstiel major has a suggested first-semester course plan. Select your major below to view your list:
Marine Affairs
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab CHM 110 – Chemical Problem Solving or an approved science elective WRS course based on placement Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit Optional: ECO 211, GSC 110, or a course from your minor or cognate
Geological Sciences (B.A./B.S.)
GSC 110 or GSC 111 – Introductory Geology WRS course based on placement Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit Elective toward Arts and Humanities cognate Optional: CHM 121 & 113 if WRS credits are satisfied
Marine Biology & Ecology
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab BIL 160 & 161 – Evolution and Biodiversity Lecture and Lab WRS course based on placement Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit Optional: Earth System (GSC 110) or a course toward a cognate
Marine Science Double Majors
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab BIL 160 & 161 – Evolution and Biodiversity Lecture and Lab Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab CHM 121 & 113 – Principles of Chemistry I and Lab Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab CSC 120 – Computer Programming I Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab CHM 121 & 113 – Principles of Chemistry I and Lab Math course based on ALEKS placement (typically MTH 151 or higher) WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab GSC 110 or GSC 111 – Introductory Geology Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab ATM 103 – Introduction to the Atmosphere Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab BIL 160 & 161 – Evolution and Biodiversity Lecture and Lab Math course based on ALEKS placement or credit WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab PHY 101/103 or PHY 111/113 – Physics I (algebra- or calculus-based) and Lab Math course based on ALEKS placement (MTH 151 or higher recommended) WRS course based on placement
MSC 111 & 112 – Introduction to Marine Science Lecture and Lab PHY 101/103 or PHY 111/113 – Physics I (algebra- or calculus-based) and Lab Math course based on ALEKS placement (MTH 151 or higher recommended) WRS course based on placement
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what courses to register for?
Use the guidance on this page and refer to the Academic Bulletin. An advisor will help finalize your schedule during Orientation.
What is a cognate?
A group of 3 related courses (9 credits) that fulfill general education requirements. Learn more on the UM Cognates site.
