SEA Semester: Ocean Exploration
What is it?
An interdisciplinary ocean studies semester which combines natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences with hands-on research and sailing experience.
When is it?
Spring 2010:
January 9 – March 26, 2010 (Atlantic)
Fall 2010: Space Available
September 9 – November 22, 2010 (Atlantic)
August 23– November 9, 2010 (Pacific)
NEW! Explore your academic theme options for Fall 2010
Early Spring 2011: Space Available
January 3 – March 25, 2011 (Atlantic)
Spring 2011: Space Available
February 8 – May 1, 2011 (Pacific)
Who should apply?
Students from any academic major. While there is an emphasis on the science of oceanography, the curriculum is designed for students representing a wide diversity of backgrounds and interests. Our students bring their experiences from majors as varied as history, biology, journalism, and environmental science.
Program Description
To a large extent, the fate of the oceans determines the fate of the planet. The sea is so complex that it is impossible to understand and appreciate from the perspective of a single academic discipline. SEA Semester: Ocean Exploration takes an interdisciplinary approach that combines data and insights from oceanography, the humanities and social sciences, and public policy – together with practical skills in nautical science – so students can develop a broad understanding of the sea. This knowledge is increasingly important today, when society is becoming more aware of how the world’s oceans affect the operations of the planet, from climate patterns to the origins of life itself.
Courses
Oceanography, CAS NS 221 (3 credits)
This course provides students with the scientific foundation needed to investigate the planet’s oceans. It introduces them to the scientific study of the ocean and serves as the foundation for the courses in practical oceanography offered during the sea component. Students acquire a basic understanding of global ocean processes and more detailed knowledge of the waters through which they will sail. As they learn about modern ocean studies and technological advances in instrumentation, students develop proposals for independent research projects to be carried out at sea. As part of this process, they have opportunities to discuss current research with scientists working at the cutting edge of marine science. During the shore component in Woods Hole, students take academic courses, plan a research project, and learn how to operate a sailing vessel – information and skills they will use on their research cruise at sea.
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. In lectures, lab sessions, field trips, and student projects, SEA’s captains introduce the principles fundamental to sailing-vessel operations. Students learn and apply essential concepts in general physics, astronomy, and meteorology.
Maritime Studies, CAS NS 222 (3 credits)
In this course, students gain a wider historical and social perspective on the experience of going to sea. It uncovers the human dimension of seafaring through an interdisciplinary study of maritime history, marine environmental history, maritime literature, the history of science, and current policy. Through readings and discussions, together with hands-on field and project work, students examine seafaring in the context of creation and creativity, marine resource use and exploitation, imperialism and postcolonial perspectives, and the development of modern trade and scientific systems. Each vessel’s cruise track defines the materials covered, allowing in-depth study of the history, legacies, and contemporary concerns of the areas students visit while at sea.
Practical Oceanography I, XAS NS 225 (4 credits)
Students learn how to safely deploy and recover modern oceanographic sampling instruments, conduct shipboard laboratory research, analyze oceanographic data, and operate a fully equipped laboratory at sea.
Practical Oceanography II, XAS NS 226 (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.
Practical Oceanographic Research, CAS NS 224 (3 credits); summer only
This course provides practical experience in conducting oceanographic research aboard a sailing research vessel and culminates in the completion and presentation of student research projects.
Special program features
Course content is geared to the specific cruise track of the semester. Cruise tracks include the North Atlantic, Atlantic/Caribbean, Pacific, and South Pacific. All students design and carry out individual oceanography research projects.
