Marine Explorers

• One Saturday evening each month
• Ages: 1^st – 3^rd grade
• 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm
• Cost - $45 per student (includes pizza)
• Location – UNCW Center for Marine Science

We Love Coastal NC

Saturday, February 28 *5 seats left!

Step into the role of a coastal scientist as we shine a light on North Carolina’s incredible shoreline! From barrier islands to beaming lighthouses, we’ll uncover how science, engineering, and nature shape our coast. Discover why lighthouses were built, how the powerful Fresnel lens changed navigation forever, and what makes NC’s shores both beautiful and full of hidden hazards. Test your state knowledge with NC trivia and map our famous lighthouses. Leave inspired by the wonders of NC’s Coast!

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Fisheries Fanatics

Saturday, March 28

It’s coastal science season, and you’re part of the ultimate team—Team Ocean! Step into the world of fisheries research and dive into the challenges that keep our oceans in balance. Sharpen your casting skills, analyze the movements of Red Drum through tagging, and explore the electrifying senses of sharks. Discover how technology, data, and marine science work together to protect fish populations and the ecosystems they call home. Game on, Fisheries Fanatics!

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Underwater Naturalist

Saturday, October 18 *FULL*

Become an Underwater Naturalist and take a fin-tastic plunge into the vibrant world beneath the waves! From colorful coral reefs to rocky shores, we’ll uncover the secrets of the sea’s most fascinating habitats and the creatures that call them home. Using real scientific tools and techniques, you’ll practice transect data collection just like marine biologists. You’ll also sharpen your observation skills through nature sketching, capturing the beauty and biodiversity of ocean life. Get ready for hands-on science, artistic exploration, and an adventure that will turn you into a true ocean explorer!

Marine Microbiologist: The Unseen Underwater World

Saturday, November 22 *FULL*

Grab your lab coat and microscope—it’s time to dive into the unseen underwater world of marine microbiology! While they may be tiny, microbes play a massive role in keeping our ocean ecosystems healthy. From deep-sea chemosynthesis to coastal bacteria blooms, you’ll explore the powerful processes that invisible with the naked eye these lifeforms make possible. Discover how pipettes and lab tools extract DNA from surprising sources and discover how bacteria colonize different parts of the ocean. Then put your microbial mastery to the test with a simulation where ocean microbes must find just the right conditions to grow. It’s a micro-sized adventure with mega-sized science! 

Last Minute Registrations

Registration for Academic Year Programs closes the Tuesday before each program date. We cannot accommodate last minute additions to Academic Year Programs, as materials and content are prepped in advance based on registration numbers. 

Cancellations and Refunds

We are unable to provide refunds in any circumstance for Academic Year Programs. Again, this is due to advance planning and preparations. We apologize for any inconvenience.