Moore Marine College Is Redefining Learning Beyond Classroom Walls
CLEARWATER, FL / ACCESSWIRE / November 24, 2023 / According to many experts, higher education has long needed a substantial overhaul as colleges and universities often fail to adequately prepare students for the real-world challenges they'll face upon graduation. Forbes highlighted this issue by emphasizing the struggle faced by learners and employers alike, with companies struggling to find candidates equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the current economy.
Among the institutions aiming to bridge this gap is Moore Marine College, a private four-year college in Clearwater, Florida, offering three different degree programs centered around marine biology. At this institution, students aren't confined to traditional classroom settings alone. The students engage in a multifaceted learning approach that includes lectures, labs, and perhaps most importantly, hands-on field experiences alongside their professors.
The college founder, Alan Moore, says Moore Marine College was conceived from the realization of the importance of practical exposure for biology students. "I understood the urgent need for these students to gain practical, real-world experience to flourish in their field," Moore reflects. "Thus, I took the initiative to acquire a boat and establish a marine education and research academy."
Moore firmly advocates for a blend of education and experience to optimize the college years for students, eliminating the necessity for prolonged internships or low-paying jobs post-graduation.
In the context of STEM degrees, such as marine biology, there has been a notable surge in graduates from American institutions since 2010, as reported by Pew Research. The foreseeable job market indicates substantial growth in STEM occupations, with an estimated 1.7 million job openings. This surge reflects an increasing preference for STEM fields among higher education seekers, signaling a shift in educational inclinations and career aspirations.
However, the critical question remains, how can colleges and universities better prepare students for their careers? Places like Moore Marine College's approach centers on the fusion of education and practical experience, aiming to address the financial constraints of students who cannot afford extensive post-graduation internships or unpaid job training. The institution prides itself on providing an innovative educational framework that not only prepares graduates for a career but also enables them to excel in their chosen fields.