The marine science doctoral (Ph.D.) program requires a total of 90 semester hours (including core courses) beyond the baccalaureate degree. Ph.D. candidates must demonstrate proficiency in two foreign languages, or a single foreign language plus a specialized "tools of research" requirement designated by the candidate's dissertation committee. Doctoral candidates must successfully pass a written and oral qualifying examination, and must successfully defend a written dissertation which is expected to constitute a publishable contribution to science.