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Ocean Solutions

Senior Programs Ages 14-17

The ocean and coastal ecosystems are under more serious threats than ever before!  Our question to you is, will you be a part of the problem or will you help uncover solutions to these global issues? 

Join MarineQuest in one of our three Ocean Solutions programs to see if you have what it takes to save our seas and human kind. Learn more about each program below.

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Conservation

Embark on an exciting journey as a biological oceanographer, where you'll split your time between field exploration and cutting-edge lab work to uncover the secrets of our oceans. Dive into hands-on activities, from collecting real-time data on marine biodiversity to analyzing the health of local ecosystems. You'll tackle critical topics like overfishing, invasive species, coral bleaching, dead zones, harmful algal blooms, and bycatch - learning not only about the challenges our oceans face, but also about innovative strategies to protect and preserve these vital biomes. Prepare to engage in creative problem-solving, team collaboration, and scientific inquiry as you investigate the most pressing environmental issues of today.

What will students explore and discover?

  • Engage with marine scientists who work in the fields of marine conservation
  • Set sail on an ocean-going research vessel and use professional oceanographic tools
  • Explore coastal and ocean habitats and collect specimens for study
  • Kayak in a sensitive marine habitat to survey coastal ecology
  • Evaluate the water quality from a state-of-the-art finfish hatchery

COASTAL MANAGEMENT

Join MarineQuest as we embark on an exciting journey through the dynamic world of coastal management - where science, policy, and sustainability converge. Throughout this week of Ocean Solutions, you'll explore the challenges of protecting our coasts from the natural forces of wind, water, and storms while preserving our communities and the local environment alike. Engage in thought-provoking discussions and debates about coastal development, urban planning, and the balance between human needs and biodiversity preservation. By the end of the week, you'll not only understand the importance of building stronger, more adaptable coastal communities, but you'll also be equipped with the knowledge and skills to become a resilient ocean and coastal advocate.

What will students explore and discover?

  • Board a research vessel to investigate barrier island dynamics
  • Investigate the impacts of sea level rise during a kayak expedition

 

Program Dates, Tuition, & Registration

Ocean Solutions Program Dates, Tuition, & Registration
Ages 15 - 17 (must complete 9th grade and turn 15 by the start of the program)
STAFF/STUDENT RATIO 1:10
SCHEDULE Commuter: Monday - Friday
Overnight: Sunday - Friday
TIME Monday - Thursday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday 12:45 PM
OVERNIGHT CHECK-IN/OUT

Sunday 3:00 PM

Friday 12:45 PM
SUMMER SESSIONS

Conservation:

Week 2: June 15 - 20, 2025

Week 6: July 13 - 18, 2025

Coastal Management:

Week 3: June 22 - 27, 2025

Week 5: July 6 - 11, 2025
Academic Fee

Conservation: $660

Coastal Management: $640
OPTIONAL Overnight Fee

$810

Conservation Total Cost: Academic + Overnight = $1,470

Coastal Management Total Cost: Academic + Overnight = $1,450
LOCATION UNCW Campus - TBD
REGISTRATION DEADLINE You must register two weeks prior to the start of the program. 

*Note that prices, content, dates, and times are subject to change without notice.

** Session is Commuter ONLY

Frequently Asked Program Questions & Useful Links

Most MarineQuest program educators are marine scientists pursuing or have recently completed their undergraduate or graduate degree in a marine science discipline. Also, we hire teachers who have a passion for marine science education. We search through 100+ staff candidates to identify a summer team with experience working with youth, marine science and hold safety certifications including first aid, lifeguard, and more.

We are proud to have a team that is highly trained in both safety and marine science. Each staff member passes a criminal background check before hiring, is First Aid certified, passes a DMV check if they are driving, and is lifeguard certified if required by their position.

MarineQuest's optional and for some senior programs required overnight programming provides participants with a full pre-college experience.  

After the day's activities, students will have free time before dinner.  After dinner, students will have fun, community, and leadership-based activities as well as additional opportunities for free time to read, exercise, and more.  

Stay overnight with MarineQuest

The MarineQuest staff is more than happy to pick up and drop off students at ILM. An airport transportation request form is required. In some instances, there may be an additional charge. 

More airport Transportation info

Contact Us

MarineQuest

Phone: (910) 962-2640

marinequest@uncw.edu

Main Office: 626 MacMillan Ave. 
MarineQuest Lab: Center for Marine Science, 5600 Marvin K. Moss Lane 

Registration Office:
Phone: 910.962.2939

Office Hours:
Monday - Friday,
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

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