MANTA/College of Charleston: High School British Virgin Islands Summer Study Abroad - 4 college credits
- British Virgin Islands
About Program
Course Title: BIOL 209 Introduction to Marine Science Diving and Coral Reefs, 4 credit hours
Duration and Dates: 15 days, june 9-23 or July 7-21
This is a unique opportunity for high school students to earn early college credit through the College of Charleston's Biology Department and Center for International Education. The setting for this program is the beautiful Caribbean archipelago known as the British Virgin Islands (BVIs). The base from which the program is operated the Research Vessel MANTA, an 80 foot luxury yacht fully equipped as a long-range, live-aboard dive and research vessel that we cruise the island chain. Students will earn their PADI scuba certification (Open Water or Advanced), learn scientific diving techniques for studying coral reefs, hear lectures on the biology, taxonomy, and conservation of coral reef ecosystems, and conduct underwater observations and research. Students will also function as full crew members and learn hands-on nautical skills.
Video and Photos
Program Highlights
- Earn 4 hours of college credit through the College of Charleston
- Receive PADI Open Water or Advanced scuba certification, and learn scientific diving techniques
- Explore and learn about amazing Caribbean coral reef ecosystems, observe sea turtles and sharks in the wild
- Hands-on experience participating in fundamental & applied marine science research and conservation
- Explore the Caribbean islands, learn deckhand and seamanship skills, and build confidence and life-long friendships
