Marine Science Pre-College at Eckerd Recently Updated

As one of the best undergraduate marine science programs in the country, our pre-college program is no different. Modeled after our undergraduate curriculum, students will work with our internationally-recognized faculty on our prime waterfront location on the Gulf of Mexico. Our hands-on curriculum in the field, on the water and in the lab has activities designed to explore marine biology, marine geology, marine chemistry, and more. 

Students enrolled in the program can expect to:

• Collect, study and release nearshore marine fish and invertebrates
• Observe wild dolphins to better understand dolphin ecology and behavior in Florida’s coastal waters
• Observe foraging shorebirds on local beaches
• Encounter alligators, tortoises, snakes and birds of prey at a nature preserve
• Conduct a plankton tow and examine organisms under a microscope
• Learn about the fragile ecology of coral reefs

Students must be able to pass the swim test, three full laps for a total of 150 yards, without touching the bottom of the pool, using any style and with no time limit.

Cost includes: participation in (and transportation for) all sessions, activities, labs, program supplies, field trips, entrance fees, use of college recreational facilities, meals, lodging and snacks.