- Academic research: Scientist or technician for a university, government agency, or nongovernmental organization
- Industry: Aquaculture, ocean energy, marine biotechnology, resource exploration and development, coastal construction and engineering
- Government: Marine research, engineering, law and policy, environmental management
- Nonprofit and non-governmental organizations: advocacy, education, ocean exploration, lobbying, grant-making
- Many other options: K-12 and informal education, communications, entrepreneurship, eco-tourism, consulting, etc.