SFS TURKS & CAICOS: MARINE
RESOURCE STUDIES
(SEMESTER)
PROGRAM DETAILS
Terms | Fall, Spring
Credits | 16 semester-hour credits
Prerequisites | One semester of college-level ecology, biology, or environmental studies/science | 2.7 GPA | 18 years of age
Application Deadline | Fall: May 1st. Spring: November 1st. Early applications encouraged!
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OVERVIEW
Students float above coral reefs that rise like polychromatic mountain ranges, identifying rays gliding through channels and reef sharks weaving the currents. Beyond the reef, mangroves and seagrass meadows stretch outward, anchoring a marine system that sustains both biodiversity and livelihoods. Students enter this living classroom, fins slicing through warm currents as they log fish counts, measure coral bleaching, or survey conch and lobster. Evenings bring the rhythm of science and community: dive gear drying beside data sheets, spirited debates with faculty, and the sound of the ocean carrying through the salt air.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
→ Conduct coral and fish biodiversity transects on surrounding reefs, recording species counts, sizes, and habitat complexity while noting signs of bleaching or storm damage.
→ Quantify seagrass bed density and associated invertebrate abundance using standardized belt transects, then analyze spatial variation with statistical software.
→ Survey mangrove forest structure and mobile fauna diversity in tidal creeks, linking species presence to nursery habitat quality.
→ Observe octopus behavior and ecology, recording camouflage, hunting strategies, and habitat use within reef systems.
→ Conduct Directed Research: frame a stakeholder-driven question, collect and analyze field data with faculty guidance, and present actionable findings to local partners.
LOCATION
SFS students live and study at the Center for Marine Resource Studies. The Center is a small converted hotel overlooking the crystalline waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
This marine field station is defined by spectacular sunsets, open-air facilities, warm sunshine, and a refreshing ocean breeze.
A five-minute walk brings you to the small, historic town of Cockburn Harbour, where students and faculty frequently engage in community activities.
RESEARCH THEMES
- Marine Ecology and Conservation
- Climate Change and Ocean Acidification
- Approaches to Sustainable Tourism and Fisheries
- Marine Resource Management
- Traditional Island Livelihoods
- Coral Health and Resilience
- Coastal Management
- Marine Protected Areas
CORE SKILLS
- Coral Health Assessment
- Marine Species Identification
- Underwater Transects and Quadrats
- Video and Photo Tracking
- Marine Survey Techniques
- Habitat and Biodiversity Assessment
- Ecosystem Services Valuation
- Research Design and Implementation
- Data Collection and Analysis
- Research Presentation
- PADI Certification (at an Additional Cost)
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