Sharklife Marine Biology Internship
by Sharklife
Program Overview
The Marine Biology Internship is an intensive skills-development program designed for students and early-career ocean enthusiasts who want structured, professional training in marine fieldwork. Based at Sharklife’s established field station in Sodwana Bay, the internship combines full scuba-diver development with guided field exercises that build real competence in marine environments. Participants learn reef and species identification, snorkel and scuba-based survey fundamentals, ocean-safety skills, ecological interpretation, and practical methods used in modern marine field training.
All activities are taught by experienced instructors and follow a clear progression from foundational skills to more advanced field confidence. The program is entirely training-focused and does not involve participation in permitted research. It is ideal for students preparing for marine-science degrees, gap-year learners seeking strong field exposure, or anyone wanting structured, hands-on experience in a world-class marine environment. No prior diving experience is required.
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Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- 1-3 Months
- 3-6 Months
- Biology
- Ecology
- Marine Biology
- Biology
- Environmental Studies
- Marine Science
Updated Dec 12, 2025
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- South Africa
Fields & Subjects
- Biology
- Ecology
- Marine Biology
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- Year Round
- Terms Available
- Fall
- Spring
- Summer
- Winter
- Trimester
- Academic Year
- Throughout the Year
- May Term
- Spring Break
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Language
- English
- Education
- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Professional degree
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
- High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
Accommodation Options
- Independent living
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18-35
Duration
- 1-3 Months
- 3-6 Months
Starts At
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about Sharklife.
Do I need prior diving experience?
No. The Internship includes full diver development from the ground up. You can arrive with zero experience and progress through Open Water, Advanced, or Rescue depending on your starting level. Your training is integrated into the program and delivered directly through Sharklife’s experienced team
What will I learn during the program?
You develop core ocean skills, scientific field methods, ecological understanding, and analytical competency. Training includes snorkel and scuba-based survey techniques, reef and species ID, environmental interpretation, ocean-safety, and structured, instructor-led practical exercises that build real field confidence.
What diving and field activities are included?
Professional diver training, structured survey exercises, reef and species ID sessions, ecological modules, boat-based outings, and guided underwater skills development. You’ll also take part in non-research monitoring activities that build field reasoning and situational judgement in marine environments.
Can the Internship help me progress toward a career?
Yes. The MBTI builds practical competence, ocean confidence, analytical basics, and a clear understanding of real-world marine fieldwork. Graduates leave with demonstrable skills, stronger CVs, and the grounding needed to pursue academic programs, field courses, or professional pathways in marine science.
Can I join if I’m not studying marine biology?
Yes. The internship is open to anyone with a strong interest in the ocean, conservation, or outdoor science. You don’t need a marine-biology background to benefit. The training begins at a foundational level and builds your skills step by step, making it suitable for students from any field, career changers, or gap-year participants looking for structured, high-quality ocean experience.
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