Energy and the Ocean Environment

Academics

SEA Semester: Energy & the Ocean Environment

"My SEA Semester experience was amazing. It allowed me to remove myself from a solely academic world in college studying philosophy, and immerse myself in a hands-on experience. Learning by doing is a better teacher than any textbook, and SEA challenges student to do amazing things."

Allison Neterer
Philosophy / Foreign Languages Major
University of Idaho

What Is It?

An investigative science and policy semester focused on the social, environmental, & technological dimensions of energy production and transportation in coastal and open ocean environments.

When Is It?

Spring 2013: Space Available
February 12– May 3, 2013 (Pacific)

Who Should Apply?

Energy & the Ocean Environment attracts students interested in investigating the challenges associated with using the oceans for energy security while achieving healthy, sustainable marine ecosystems. The interdisciplinary curriculum is open to all majors but is especially suited for Environmental Science, Science, or Physics/Math majors interested in taking a holistic approach to a scientific question. Limited to 24 students per cruise.

Prerequisites: A minimum of two lab science courses, at least one at the 200 level OR two sequential 100-level labs. Not sure if you qualify? Contact your Admissions Counselor.

SEA Semester operates on a rolling admissions basis, so there are no application deadlines. Students are accepted on a case-by-case basis until the program is full.

Program Description

The future of ocean-derived energy is a controversial topic but is also imperative to understand. In this semester, students investigate a number of ocean energy resources including offshore oil, gas hydrates, waves, tides, and currents. Alternative energy sources may relieve U.S. dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate global climate change; however, there are associated environmental impacts, political complications, and economic concerns. As we look to the ocean to supply more energy, how do we balance the desire for both economic stability and ocean health? Students explore this question and many others as they address the future of energy and the world's ocean environments.

On Shore in Woods Hole
Students begin the semester by engaging in intensive coursework in the fields of science, policy, and nautical science while seeking to address and understand the big issues associated with energy and our oceans. They also work to develop original research projects to be conducted at sea. Students have access to SEA faculty, distinguished guest lecturers, and the world-renowned WHOI/MBL Library. They also have the opportunity to explore local issues related to energy and the ocean environment including the Cape Wind project and the still-present effects of regional oil spills. Field trips may include the National Ocean Sciences Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Facility (NOSAMS), United States Geological Survey Woods Hole Science Center, and the Woods Hole Research Center.

At Sea in the Pacific
As full, working members of the scientific team and sailing crew aboard the SSV Robert C. Seamans, students deploy oceanographic sampling equipment, manage shipboard operations, navigate by the stars, and make port stops off the beaten path. Students will have the opportunity to visit and interact with scientists from the National Marine Renewable Energy Center at the University of Hawaii to develop a better understanding of alternative energy research. They also work through the scientific method by conducting an independent research project related to ocean energy (e.g., carbon chemistry, physical oceanography, and biological impact studies). Students implement their experimental design, analyze collected data, and present their findings upon completion of the sea component.

Energy & the Ocean Environment | Video Blog

Click here for several more videos from the Spring 2011 EOE program!

Courses

Oceans in the Global Carbon Cycle, CAS NS 321 (4 credits)
This course evaluates energy as it relates to the ocean. We cover an array of topics including the ocean as a source of energy and the associated technologies, the energy associated with metabolic processes in marine organisms, and the ocean's role in regulating the products of global energy consumption. We study marine carbon chemistry in depth and explore both global climate change and ocean acidification. In addition to regular course work, students develop a research project that they will carry out at sea. This course also incorporates prominent guest lecturers and field trips to local research institutions.

Ocean Science and Public Policy, CAS NS 320 (3 credits)
From revolutionary new Marine Spatial Planning regimes to support developing "clean and renewable" wind power, or the trumpeting calls to "drill baby drill!" in closed areas of the continental shelf, today's debates over energy policy are reshaping how America manages its ocean resources. Through case studies, visiting lecturers, and applied research, this course explores the meeting of public policy and science at the brave new world of ocean energy in the United States.

Nautical Science, CAS NS 223 (3 credits)
Nautical Science teaches the practical skills and theoretical background necessary to safely operate a tall ship on the high seas. Students learn and apply essential concepts in general physics, astronomy, and meteorology. During the sea component, students apply these concepts while acting as active and increasingly responsible members of the ship's crew, working toward the ultimate role of Junior Watch Officer.

Oceanographic Field Methods, XAS NS 324 (3 credits)
In support of student directed research, students master all aspects of the shipboard lab operations. Students will deploy and recover oceanographic sampling equipment, collect and analyze data from a variety of sophisticated instruments and be a part of the 24 hour/day oceanographic sampling team.

Directed Oceanographic Research, XAS NS 325 (4 credits)
Students collect, analyze, and present data for projects of their own design. Each student completes an original research project in oceanography under the guidance of the Chief Scientist on board the vessel.