Prospective Students

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The location of the research laboratories of the Department of Marine Science’s (DMS) on the 18-acre Magueyes Island, at La Parguera, Lajas, provides an ideal setting and location for conducting field oriented marine research in diverse subjects. At the same time, laboratories are fully equipped with cutting edge technology to conduct research in numerous fields including, but not limited, to marine biotechnology, molecular systematics and molecular evolution, bio-optics, marine microbiology and geology, physics and biogeochemistry.

La Parguera is located 22 miles from Mayagüez (45 minutes drive) and is characterized for its environmental richness including coral reefs, mangrove islands, luscious seagrass beds and a bioluminescent bay within a few miles of each other. Besides its scientific interest as an important marine reserve, La Parguera is also an appealing touristic spot for locals and outsiders. The natural beauty of the area provides opportunities for nature hikes, boating, kayaking, diving and fishing. Although Isla Magueyes is located 22 miles from the main campus of the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez,the DMS is an integral part on the University. In this respect, students at DMS enjoy all the rights and privileges accorded to their counterparts on the main campus.

These include the use of libraries and computer centers, access to university events, medical services and other such common student services.

Cost of Study Most marine science graduate students are supported on teaching or research assistantships and must be enrolled for at least 9 credit hours to be considered full-time students. Assistantships include a full tuition waiver. Residents not with a tuition waiver, paid $117.00* per credit hour in 2007-08. General fees of approximately $100 per semester are added to these costs. Medical insurance costs are separate.Resident status may be established in one year. Non-residents(out-of-state students), including international students, pay $5,446.00 per year, except for students from US institutions having reciprocal tuition-reduction agreements with Puerto Rico (a list of states is available on request).

*The University reserves the right to increase or modify expenses without prior notice, but with approval of the Board of Trustees.

Cost of Living The cost of living in western Puerto Rico is considerably lower than the US national average. A student sharing an apartment or small house should find that $5,000 to $6,500 a year will be adequate for basic housing needs. Single rooms or family side rooms may be available for less. For additional information please contact us. The general estimated cost of living for a single student is about $1,000-1,100 a month (food, housing and transportation).

More detailed information can be requested on the following online resources.

We’re more than happy to assist you. Please contact us for the most up to date information at cima@uprm.edu or call our offices Monday through Friday from 7:45am to 4:30pm.


Mayagüez Office Phone: (787) 265-3838
Mayagüez Office Fax: (787) 265-5408
Magueyes Office: (787) 899-2048 Exts. 221; 223; 222
Magueyes Fax: (787) 899-5500

Meet current and past DMS student at AECiMa’s (Facebook page)


NOTE: The information on this page changes frequently, may be outdated and in need of revision. Please contact us for the most up to date information, cima@uprm.edu.