Originally a tropical marine biological facility, the Marine Laboratory initiated a program of studies leading to the Master of Science degree in 1949. In 1953, laboratory and classroom buildings were constructed on the School?s present campus on Virginia Key, and in the late fifties, the Marine Laboratory expanded its staff and developed its oceanographic capabilities in response to the increased interest in scientific research in the United States. It became the Institute of Marine Science in 1961. Ocean-going research vessels were acquired, and additional buildings were constructed to accommodate new wide-ranging projects. In 1969 the Institute, now a School, was named for Dorothy H. and Lewis Rosenstiel in recognition of a major contribution made through the Rosenstiel Foundation to encourage progress in the marine and atmospheric sciences at the University of Miami.?

Today, RSMAS?has a faculty of 70 scientists who conduct sponsored research while offering graduate studies leading to the Master of Professional Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The School offers graduate programs in Atmospheric Sciences, Marine Ecosystems and Society, Marine Biology and Ecology, Marine Geosciences, Meteorology and Physical Oceanography, Ocean Engineering, and Ocean Sciences. Undergraduate programs leading to a Bachelor of Science in Marine and Atmospheric Science (with?majors in Marine Science, and Meteorology), and a Bachelor of Arts in Marine Affairs are also offered.?