Academics

"SEA Semester was the perfect environment to learn about a vastly important but often overlooked part of our world, the oceans. The classroom time was very engaging and I learned a great deal in this more traditional academic environment. Of course, the sea component will probably be the most memorable aspect of my undergraduate education."

Evan Oleson
Economics Major
Williams College

What Is It?

An abbreviated version of our interdisciplinary SEA Semester: Ocean Exploration program, the SEA Summer Session offers students a comprehensive understanding of the world’s oceans through interdisciplinary coursework on shore and at sea. This 8-week course combines 4 weeks of academic study in Woods Hole with 4 weeks of sailing in the Pacific. 12 credits are offered through Boston University.

When Is It?

Summer 2012: Space Available
May 21 – July 16, 2012

Summer 2013: Tentative Dates
May 22 – July 18, 2013

Who Should Apply?

The SEA Summer Session is the perfect summer program for any student interested in taking a firsthand look at the oceans. The Summer Session attracts students from all majors who are interested in gaining an in-depth understanding of our world's oceans: both science majors who are looking for field research opportunities, and non-science majors who are hoping to fulfill science requirements in a hands-on way!

While there is an emphasis on oceanography, the curriculum is designed for students representing a wide diversity of backgrounds and interests. Because the program combines multiple academic disciplines, it draws students from majors as varied as history, environmental science, biology, journalism, and studio art.

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

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. The SEA Summer Session takes an interdisciplinary approach that combines data and insights from oceanography, the humanities and social sciences, and public policy 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.

On Shore in Woods Hole
During the 4-week shore component, intensive academic coursework prepares students for their research cruise. With full access to SEA faculty and the world-renowned Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution/Marine Biological Laboratory Library, students design original research projects to be completed at sea. Maritime Studies provides a wider historical and social perspective on the impact of humans on the world's oceans, and on the experience of going to sea. Nautical Science introduces practical seamanship skills and the theoretical background necessary to safely operate a tall ship on the open ocean.

At Sea on the Open Ocean
As full, working members of the scientific team and sailing crew on one of SEA's state-of-the-art research vessels, students manage shipboard operations, navigate by the stars, analyze oceanographic samples, and visit foreign ports off the beaten path. Most importantly, students learn to challenge themselves and develop new leadership, teamwork, and research skills.

Special Program Features

All students design and carry out an individual oceanographic research project culminating in a final presentation and written paper. Many students use their SEA Summer Session research findings to launch a more extensive project at their home institution.

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. The 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 Oceanographic Research, CAS NS 224 (3 credits)
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.

Request Information

Download a brochure or request a catalog for more information about the SEA Summer Session.