Join our Environmental Science Study Abroad in the Bahamas. Students will study the environmental features of Andros Island including coral reefs, off-shore cays, seagrass beds, sandbars, blue holes, subtropical terrestrial habitats, Bahamian settlements, and more. Andros Island is the largest of the Bahamian Island chains but also the most remote.

Students earning their PADI Open Water and Advanced Certs

Students earning their scuba certification

Environmental Science Study Abroad in The Bahamas Learning and Certifications

Engage in a variety of amazing experiences on the Environmental Science Study Abroad in The Bahamas Program, including:

  • Field Trips

  • Labs

  • Bahamian Culture

  • Boat trips to the surrounding coral reefs or land excursions to various sites for biological, geological, or cultural significance. 

  • Earn 4 certifications

    • PADI Open and Advanced SCUBA certifications

    • ACA Sea Kayaking

    • Wilderness First Aid training

Students will gain hands-on experience and understand how to properly research, measure and evaluate marine ecosystems in order to understand how to harness and protect these resources. Watch our Forfar Field Station Experience video to learn more about the experience.

This experience has been incredible! It’s not just a chapter in my life; it’s a gripping adventure filled with new challenges, unforgettable moments, and the creation of lifelong connections
— Talia Payling, Fall 2023 Cohort
 
Students visiting a Blue Hole on Andros Island

Students visiting a blue hole

Environmental Science Study Abroad Details

Meet fellow science lovers and travelers thrilled by the adventure of learning about the natural beauty of The Bahamas. 

  • Ages: 18 - 24

  • Dates: 

    • Fall 2025 Cohort: October 27 - December 5, 2025

    • Winter 2026 Cohort: January 12 - February 20, 2026

  • Location: Andros Island, The Bahamas 

  • Pricing: $6,750 

    • Includes: Lodging, 3 meals a day, inner island flight, ground transportation, all field trips and excursions, Dive, Kayak, and WFA certifications and instruction, and trip facilitators/environmental educators. 

Students participating in a Gonio Lab

Students participating in a Gonio Lab

What to Expect in Your Environmental Science Study Abroad

Live on beachfront property while studying the crystal clear Caribbean waters during our Environmental Science Study Abroad program in The Bahamas. Participants will immerse themselves in: 

  • Marine Biology

  • Service Learning

  • Bahamian Culture 

  • Scuba Diving and Sea Kayaking

  • Island Ecology and Geology of The Bahamas

  • Reef Fish/Marine Invertebrates ID

  • Sustainable Fishing 

  • Coral Reef Biology/Conservation

  • Mangroves

  • Blue hole water chemistry

  • Ecotourism

Our sites described in the Sites and Sights guide offer more details about daily trip locations.

 
View from cabins at Forfar Field Station

View from Cabins

Next Steps

Step 1: Sign Up

  • Fill out our application to apply for this Environmental Science Study Abroad program.

Step 2: Pay Deposit

  • Once accepted, to secure your spot on the trip you need to pay a deposit.

Step 3: Passports

  • Make sure you have a valid Passport that does not expire within 6 months of your travel date.

Step 4: Review Packing List and Pre-Departure Documents

I know without a shadow of a doubt that this experience has changed me for the better, and the things I learned there will help me throughout my life, education, and career.
— Darwyn Sawyer, Fall 2021 Cohort
 
using a microscope in the lab at Forfar Field Station

Using a microscope in the lab

Environmental Science Study Abroad Itinerary

  • Week 1: Introduction to Marine Biology

  • Week 2: Service Learning, Exploring the Bahamian Culture, and the Island Ecology of Andros

  • Week 3: Sea Kayaking

  • Week 4: Wilderness First Aid/ Leave No Trace

  • Week 5: PADI Open Water Diving

  • Week 6: PADI Advanced Open Water Diving

At the end of each day come back to the Field Station to play beach games, gather around the campfire, or walk down to the local ice cream shop for a treat. Every Thursday, experience Bahamian cuisine at a local restaurant.

 
Students getting ready for a dive

students getting ready for a dive

Environmental Science Study Abroad Packing List

Please take the time to read through our packing list for our Environmental Science Study Abroad in The Bahamas. Important notes are highlighted and we encourage using biodegradable, environmentally-friendly brands. You can support International Field Studies (IFS) by visiting our Product Links page.

 
Accomodations at Forfar Field Station

Cabins

Bahamas Environmental Science Study Abroad Accommodations

Our location for the Environmental Science Study Abroad  trip is at Forfar Field Station, Andros Island. Our Field Station is a rustic former dive resort nestled on a beachfront coconut grove on the east coast of the island. Each cabin has 3-4 sets of bunk beds, electricity, fans, and a private bathroom with hot water and a shower. WIFI is available in our lodge for all guests. Check out this video to tour our location.

Frequently Asked Questions about our Environmental Science Study Abroad Program

1. How do I sign up? - click here to apply for our Environmental Science Study Abroad 

2. What will the weather be like when we are there? - we recommend you check the weather before your trip. 

3. Can you tell me more about Andros Island? - Read our Blog Post for more details about Andros Island. 

4.  Will I need a passport to travel to The Bahamas or can I use another form of identification? - You must use a valid government issued passport book to enter the Bahamas. Birth certificates and other forms of identification will not be accepted. 

5. Do you offer scholarships? Yes - visit our scholarship application page.

6. Can I receive college credit? Yes - The option to earn credit for this program may be possible through a university/college you are currently enrolled in or by enrolling in Seattle Central College’s "Travel Study" course SSC297 or by applying to Wright State University’s “Study Abroad” course. Contact our office for more details.