If you’re fascinated by the incredible underwater world, and have developed a passion for marine biology, there are some programs for high schoolers which provide practical experience with marine ecosystems, research techniques, and conservation projects. Here are 10 fantastic programs for marine science.
1. Brown University - Research Methods in Marine Science
Brown University runs a pre-college course every summer allowing high school students to learn about the different aspects of ocean science. Through this course, high schoolers are introduced to many aspects of marine science research, from data collection to data analysis. The objective of this course is to introduce students to the basics of marine biology, but also prepare them for their potential plans in the future.
· Location: Brown University
· Program Dates: June 23 – July 3, 2025
· Cost: ~$5,400
· Eligibility: All high school students
· Deadline: May 1, 2025
2. Sea Turtle Camp
Sea Turtle Camp provides hands-on experience in marine biology for high school students. Students will kayak, seine, and walk the beach as they explore coastal ecosystems. Throughout the program, students will develop a love and respect for the ocean, and become more confident individuals while developing character.
· Location: North Carolina, Hawaii, and Costa Rica
· Program Dates: Various dates throughout summer 2025
· Cost: Varies by location and program length
· Eligibility: Teens aged 10–18
· Deadline: Applications open until programs are full
3. ActionQuest – Marine Biology Adventure
Similarly, ActionQuest immerses teens in marine biology using sailing, scuba dive and marine science education. The program asks students to live and learn aboard 46-foot catamarans and 50-foot sloops, which serve as floating classrooms and labs. Students will become effective sailors and learn scuba diving skills, while studying marine biology.
· Location: British Virgin Islands
· Program Dates: Multiple sessions from June to August 2025
· Cost: Varies by program
· Eligibility: High school students
· Deadline: Rolling admissions until full
4. Broadreach – Caribbean Marine Biology Voyage
This is a 17-day voyage, during which high school students will have an exciting and educational experience. Students will partake in activities and projects that demonstrate marine ecology, such as oceanography, coral reef biology and more. The result of this extreme adventure, education, and skill building leads to a productive understanding of marine science expedited for a teenager!
· Location: Caribbean Islands
· Program Dates: Multiple sessions in summer 2025
· Cost: ~$5,000
· Eligibility: High school students aged 14–18
· Deadline: Rolling admissions
5. Eckerd College Pre-College Marine Science Program
Eckerd College provides a week-long residency program for rising high school juniors and seniors to actively engage with marine science. Participants get to work side by side with faculty, participating in activities such as offshore netting, crab catch-and-release, and dolphin photo ops, contributing to a well-rounded introduction to marine biology, geology, and chemistry.
· Location: St. Petersburg, Florida
· Program Dates: June 15-20, 2025
· Cost: $2,100
· Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors
· Deadline: Applications open until sessions are full
6. UC San Diego Marine Science Research Scholars
This tiered program collaborates with Scripps Institution of Oceanography to provide hybrid learning activities. Students in high school will start with foundational courses that advance to independent research in their courses. Students will have the option to be published in The Marine Science Research Scholars Journal. Topics covered in courses may include the impact of climate on sea life, biodiversity conservation, and upcoming marine technologies.
· Location: San Diego, California
· Program Dates: June 2025
· Cost: $2,000-$4,800 depending on program tier
· Eligibility: High School students
· Deadline: Varies by program tier
7. Catalina Island Marine Institute (CIMI)
CIMI offers high school students the opportunity to learn marine biology in real-world applications with snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and marine science labs, all on Catalina Island, California. Students experience real learning in marine environments and develop a deeper understanding of marine life and oceanography.
· Location: Catalina Island, California
· Program Dates: Summer 2025
· Cost: $3,100
· Eligibility: High school students
· Deadline: Applications open until program is full
8. Island School Summer Term
The Island School offers a six-week summer term focusing on applied scientific research and human ecology. High school students engage in marine biology studies, participate in community outreach, and explore sustainable systems. Located in the Bahamas, the program provides a unique opportunity to study marine ecosystems in a tropical setting.
· Location: Cape Eleuthera, Bahamas
· Program Dates: June 2025
· Cost: $18,350
· Eligibility: High school students
· Deadline: Applications open until program is full
9. Shoals Marine Laboratory - Cornell University
The ‘Island School’ provides a six-week summer session which is focused on human ecology and applied scientific research. During this time, high school students study marine biology, engage in community outreach, and investigate sustainable systems. The program is based in the Bahamas, which allows for students to study marine ecosystems in a tropical environment.
· Location: Appledore Island, Maine
· Program Dates: July 29 – August 12, 2025
· Cost: $5,250 (includes 3 college credits)
· Eligibility: High school students who have completed grades 10-12 and two science courses
· Deadline: Rolling admission
10. Roger Williams University Marine Biology Camp
Roger Williams University has a summer marine biology camp that uses a combination of sea kayak exploration of ecosystems with laboratory analysis of plankton samples. Students have whale watching research cruises, a workshop for seaweed identification, and more, all while investigating the ever-changing marine ecosystems that southern New England has to offer. The camp creates a holistic understanding of the concepts of marine biology and current events happening within marine biology.
· Location: Bristol, Rhode Island
· Program Dates: Summer 2025
· Cost: $1,995
· Eligibility: High school students
· Deadline: Applications open until program is full
FAQ:
1. What kind of activities do marine biology programs for high schoolers offer?
Marine biology programs for high school students typically comprise a variety of hands-on activities that give an experiential introduction to marine science. Activities often include: Snorkeling or scuba diving, tidepooling or beach ecology studies, laboratory experiments and data analysis, research projects and presentations, and trips to marine research facilities or aquariums.
2. Do marine biology programs offer college credit?
Some marine biology programs provide the option to earn college credits. For instance, Acadia Institute of Oceanography's Advanced Marine Science Camp offers an option to students to earn 4 college credits through the University of Maine Machias. Any rising junior or senior who has taken at least one year of high school science can take advantage of this opportunity. Students pay for the credits directly to the University and tuition for the program is separate.
3. Are there virtual marine biology programs or are there international programs for high school students?
There are both virtual marine biology programs and marine biology programs for high school students in other countries. Virtual marine biology programs provide opportunities to participate in scientific research remotely which could include components related to marine biology. Some programs may also accept international students or conduct sessions in various countries. This makes them accessible to students all over the world.
4. How can students prepare for these programs?
Students who might want to take marine biology programs should focus on establishing their math and science background courses in high school, especially in basic biology, chemistry and environmental science. Participate in volunteer opportunities either at aquariums, science fairs or even environmental conservation projects. These opportunities not only help prepare you for a marine biology program, but they demonstrate commitment and caring. Some programs have their own specific prerequisites so read each program closely.
If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Global Education offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world.
Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Global’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!