Description

Isn't it worth one semester to study three-quarters of the world? Since 1971, SEA Semester has been a leader in study abroad focused on marine science, environmental studies, and maritime culture. Our interdisciplinary programs challenge students intellectually and physically by combining study of the deep ocean with hands-on research and sailing.

Based in the world-renowned scientific community of Woods Hole, Massachusetts, SEA Semester provides undergraduates with the opportunity to study the ocean from a multitude of academic perspectives, and do to it from the platform of a traditional sailing vessel.

Every SEA Semester begins with a shore component in Woods Hole followed by an open ocean research cruise. Each program combines elements of oceanography, maritime history & culture, environmental studies, public policy, and nautical science. While all SEA Semesters provide an interdisciplinary approach to studying the oceans, each program has an individual focus and schedule. You should apply for the semester that best fits your interests, academic calendar, and required coursework. SEA Semester programs offer 17-18 credits from Boston University; the SEA Summer Session & SEA Trimester Program offer 12.

Our six diverse SEA Semester programs are the only full-credit programs in the world that combine an engaging academic and research curriculum with the sailing adventure of a lifetime.

Highlights

SEA Semester is open to all majors and is perfect for students looking for a hands-on, field based study abroad experience.

Students may choose from the following academic options:
* Ocean Exploration: an interdisciplinary ocean studies semester open to all majors
* Colonization to Conservation in the Caribbean: an environmental focused Caribbean studies semester
* Oceans & Climate: an upper-level marine science semester examining the dilemma of climate change
* Sustainability in Polynesian Island Cultures & Ecosystems: an environmental studies focused semester using Polynesia as a case study
* Energy & the Ocean Environment: an upper-level science and policy semester focused on alternative energy exploration
* Marine Biodiversity & Conservation: an upper-level biodiversity semester that applies scientific techniques to place-based resource management

The SEA Summer Session is also an option for students who are not able to take a full semester away from campus.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Minimum Education

High School

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Visit our website for information regarding cost, affordability, and financial aid

Program Fees Include:

* 17-18 course credits issued by Boston University (or home institution, if affiliated with SEA)
* Student housing on the SEA campus in Woods Hole during the shore component
* Prepaid grocery cards for use during the shore component
* Three meals plus three snacks a day at sea, prepared by a professional steward
* Research fees & access to SEA library, computer lab & wireless network; WHOI/MBL joint library membership
* Academic field trip and science lab fees
* Full-time Head Resident on site for student support and supervision
* 24-hour emergency assistance and support from on-site staff

Experience Required

no

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory

Participants Travel

Independently

Scholarships are Available

SEA awards over USD1 million per year in both need-based and merit scholarships to students participating in SEA Semester. Over 50% of our students receive some form of financial assistance; out of those, 95% receive aid directly from SEA. SEA remains committed to making our programs affordable for all qualified and motivated students.

Application Process Involves

• Essay
• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Online Application
• Phone/Video Interview
• Transcript
• Other

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

SEA Semester's Mission Statement

SEA is an educational institution dedicated to exploration, understanding and stewardship of the oceans, and to the study of humanity's relationship with the oceans. SEA offers students an interdisciplinary curriculum, on shore and at sea aboard tall ships, that provides challenging voyages of scientific discovery, academic rigor, and personal growth.

Year Founded

1971