Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for any undergraduate with an interest in the oceans. We welcome students of all majors to apply.
Program Highlights
• Conduct snorkel-based reef surveys
• Gain hands-on sailing and leadership experience
• Participate in original data collection and authentic research
Program Description
Coral reefs support some of the richest diversity of species on the planet, and yet they are now threatened by climate change and other human impacts. After completing initial coursework online, you’ll join the SSV Robert C. Seamans in Hawai'i. You’ll retrace historic voyages of Polynesian migration, using navigation methods that rely on the sun, stars, and moon, and conduct snorkel-based photographic and visual surveys of the local corals, fish, and invertebrates to document the effects of environmental change.
This program is for any student interested in exploring the changing Pacific Ocean environment through hands-on research and leadership experience at sea, and is a rare opportunity to contribute to a growing body of knowledge about the health of remote coral reefs.
Skills Gained
• Critically analyze and interpret authentic oceanographic and reef survey data
• Function as an essential crew member through demonstrated proficiency including scientific deployments and snorkel survey techniques
• Effective team membership and leadership
• Communicate scientific data through visual representation and oral presentation
Academic Coursework & Credit
SEA Semester Summer: Pacific Reef Expedition carries 7 semester hour credits from Boston University for successful completion of the program.
Course Descriptions
Nautical Science (200-level, 3 credits)
Prereq: Admission to SEA Semester.
Learn the fundamentals of sailing ship operation, in preparation for direct application at sea. Navigation (piloting, celestial and electronic), weather, engineering systems, safety, and sail theory. Participate as an active member of the ship’s crew on an offshore voyage.
Practical Oceanographic Research (200-level, 4 credits)
Prereq: Admission to SEA Semester.
Introduction to oceanographic research. Design a collaborative, hypothesis-driven project following the scientific process. Collect original data. Conduct analysis and interpretation, then prepare a written report and oral presentation.
