The University's marine biology station at Charleston is an ideal location for the study of marine systems.
Many habitats are within easy reach of the laboratory.
To the north are over 40 miles of sandy beaches, and to the south are extensive rocky shores. The laboratory is at the entrance of Coos bay, and estuarine and open ocean habitats are only minutes away. OIMB is adjacent to the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. Fall term courses take advantage of these opportunities. Classes are small with a maximum of 24 students and are designed for juniors and seniors and first year graduate students.