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Marine and Costal Ecology
Dive into Sicily’s marine and coastal ecosystems through hands-on field studies. Explore Mediterranean marine biodiversity and gain unique insight into the real-world challenges of human–nature coexistence. You’ll use the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area as your primary open-air laboratory. Choose one of our tracks, or combine both for an even more immersive experience! Mediterranean Conflict: Humans & the Environment - 3-week session - 3 credits | 45 contact hours - Major Disciplines: Environmental Sciences, Marine Biology, Ecology - Related Disciplines: Anthropology, Food Studies, Sustainability Studies Marine & Coastal Ecology - 6-week session - 4 credits | 60 contact hours - Major Disciplines: Environmental Sciences, Geology, Anthropology - Related Disciplines: Earth Studies, Geochemistry, Geophysics, Volcanology
Dive into Sicily’s marine and coastal ecosystems through hands-on field studies. Explore Mediterranean marine biodiversity and gain unique insight into the real-world challenges of human–nature coexistence. You’ll use the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area as your primary open-air laboratory. Choose one of our tracks, or combine both for an even more immersive experience! Mediterranean Conflict: Humans & the Environment - 3-week session - 3 credits | 45 contact hours - Major Disciplines: Environmental Sciences, Marine Biology, Ecology - Related Disciplines: Anthropology, Food Studies, Sustainability Studies Marine & Coastal Ecology - 6-week session - 4 credits | 60 contact hours - Major Disciplines: Environmental Sciences, Geology, Anthropology - Related Disciplines: Earth Studies, Geochemistry, Geophysics, Volcanology
Program Highlights
Monitoring of invasive species and climate change impacts at the Marine Protected Area
Dolphin and whale watching activities in the bay of Catania
Earn transferable US college credit recognized by many institutions upon successful program completion.
Snorkeling census of fish and benthic species.
Engaging with local fishermen community and NGOs
Quick Details
- Syracuse, Italy
- Summer
- Earth Sciences
- Ecology
- Environmental Studies
- Geology
- Marine Biology
- All Nationalities
Awards


Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
I loved every moment of this program
February 15, 2024by: Mirurgia SimónI loved every moment of this program, from the hands-on field activities to learning Italian and meeting students from all over the world. It was not only educational but also a lot of fun. Highly recommend to anyone passionate about environmental science and sustainability.
Real-world experience
February 15, 2024by: Samira CömeAs an Environmental Sciences major, this program was incredibly enriching. The hands-on activities and the capstone project on environmental sustainability provided real-world experience that's hard to come by. Also, the opportunity to learn Italian and interact with a diverse group of students added so much value.
Study sessions by the sea?
February 14, 2024by: Sophia LeeMixing marine biology studies with snorkeling and boat trips around Syracuse's coast was unreal. Saw some amazing sea life and got to chill on some of the most beautiful beaches during our downtime. Study sessions by the sea? Can't beat that.
Perfectly blended academic rigor with adventure
February 04, 2024by: Jordan GüntertThis summer program perfectly blended academic rigor with adventure. Visiting Mt. Etna and the Aeolian Islands for field studies was beyond educational. However, I wished for more in-depth sessions on marine biology. Overall, the multicultural environment and earning college credits were major pluses.
Unparalleled learning opportunities
February 04, 2024by: Alex LeonieThe Environment and Biodiversity program in Sicily was a life-changing experience. Exploring ecosystems from the coast to Mount Etna offered unparalleled learning opportunities. The mix of theoretical knowledge and fieldwork, especially the capstone project, was perfect for hands-on learning. Also, learning Italian was a bonus!
This is your jam
February 02, 2024by: Liam ParkIf you're into nature and sustainability, this is your jam. We were out in the field more than in class, which was sick. Seeing conservation efforts up close and getting to contribute? Priceless. Plus, the local scene in Syracuse is chill and super welcoming.
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Syracuse, Italy
Types and Subjects
- Subjects & Courses
- Earth Sciences
- Ecology
- Environmental Studies
- Geology
- Marine Biology
Availability
Years Offered: 2026
- Summer
Age Requirement
18-30
Guidelines
All Nationalities
This Program is also open to Solo
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Tuition & Fees
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Some Program Activity Costs
- Wifi Costs
- On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- In-Country Orientation
- Academic Advising
- Transcript Fees
- Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
- Course Materials
- Academic Credit
- Certificate of Completion
- Emergency Support
Accommodation Options
- Apartment/Flat
- Home-stays
- Independent living
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Online Application
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