ABOUT THIS COURSE
This week-long immersive marine biology experience for teens at Forfar Field Station is perfect for students interested in learning more about marine ecosystems and conservation. Open to students ages 16-17, and you do not need to be affiliated with a school group to join. Solo and small group travelers welcome!
Once you register for the trip, you will gain access to 6 pre-recorded lectures so you can study them at your own pace in preparation for the trip!
This introductory level online course is offered through International Field Studies, a nonprofit specializing in environmental education since 1970. Watch the 6 online marine ecosystem lecture recordings and join us for an immersive, field based experience at Forfar Field Station on Andros, Bahamas this summer. Space is limited so register today!
Topics include:
Mangroves
Coral Reefs
Seagrass
Tidal Flats
Climate Change
Conservation
The online portion is designed to provide an introductory knowledge of marine ecosystems that students can build off of for future courses or foster a passion to continue studying in the field.
The week-long field trip to Forfar will give students the chance to snorkel the world’s third largest fringing barrier reef, learn marine field skills, master hands-on field based research techniques, enjoy a beginner discover scuba diving course, and more! Watch our Forfar Field Station Experience video to learn more about the experience.
More Info!
Forfar Field Station Experience Video
Sights and Sites Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Draft Itinerary
What is included in the cost? Access to the 6 online course recordings, 7 night stay at Forfar Field Station, roundtrip flight from Nassau to Andros, all meals, transportation on island, lodging, lectures, and lecture-themed excursions. You’ll be responsible for your flights into and out of Nassau, BS.
How do I secure my spot? A $300 non-refundable deposit is due to confirm your spot. Details on how to submit the deposit will be emailed to you once you sign up. Spots in the program are offered on a first come first serve basis.
Can I purchase round-trip Nassau flights yet? No, do not purchase flights yet! We will provide more information regarding flight specifics.
More about Forfar
cabin at Forfar Field Station
For the past 50 years, Forfar Field Station has hosted over 50,000 students for hands-on, experiential field study experiences. Mainly operating to serve week-long field study groups through schools and universities, Forfar is also home to a 6-week Gap Year each Fall and Winter and a 2 week Marine Science and Diving Program as well as other week-long school groups with varying specialties (marine science, island ecology, botany, geology, diving, birding, or research).
ONLINE LECTURE INSTRUCTOR
Vivienne Main holds a Masters of Science in Marine and Freshwater Biology from the University of Glasgow, Scotland. She completed an internship with the Clyde River Foundation before moving to Dahab, Egypt to manage the Open Ocean Science Centre. There, she worked as a SCUBA diving instructor, developed EECAA (an environmental NGO), and promoted environmental community initiatives. Most recently, Vivienne spent 2.5 years as the Field Station Director at Forfar, followed by another year of working for IFS in a Program Coordinator role. She’s excited to share her passion for science and her love of Forfar with everyone!
ENROLLMENT
Open to US citizens and Non-US citizens. English speaking proficiency required. No specific school affiliation required. Must be 16-24 years old.
DETAILS
Dates: June 21-28, 2025
FOCUS: Marine Ecosystems, Conservation, and Climate Change.
TYPE: 6 Online lectures (at your own pace prior to the trip) plus 1 week travel component.
PRICE: $1,450 (USD) total for online lectures and week-long trip
LEVEL: High School Level Course (open to students ages 16 - 17)
students ages 18-24 can check out our Exploring Marine Science and Diving program.
DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: February 21, 2025
view from field station
Heading out for a Boat day
students studying marine life on saddleback cay