SEASCape: Ocean Studies on Cape Cod

High School and Pre-College Program

SEASCape: Ocean Studies on Cape Cod

High School and Pre-College Program

A two-and-a-half-week introductory program to understanding the value of ocean sciences and the blue humanities in ocean conservation.

Guided by SEA’s mission to advance ocean sciences and blue humanities, SEASCape integrates two major themes: “Introduction to Oceanography” and “Oceans and Society.” Students participating in SEASCape will not only engage in fieldwork, collecting data and studying Cape Cod’s vibrant ecosystems but will also explore the rich history of Cape Cod as a center for global maritime trade, commercial fisheries, shipbuilding, and naval operations. Through daily weekday lectures and discussions, laboratory activities, field trips, and group projects, students are immersed into a hands-on learning experience strengthening their understanding of marine issues, the power of a multi disciplined approach to conservation, and importance of community. Whether examining the ocean’s role in our world or understanding the communities that depend on it, this program is great way for students to connect with the ocean—and each other—while preparing to become future leaders in ocean sciences and coastal advocacy.

Program cost: $5,975

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Summer 2025

Sessions

Jun 23 - Jul 12

SEA campus in Woods Hole, MA

Jul 21 - Aug 9

SEA campus in Woods Hole, MA

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Introduction to Oceanography

Students study marine organisms, marine geology and sediments, ocean circulation, and the chemistry of seawater. Taking full advantage of the local region, the course focuses on the coastal marine environment, with extensive fieldwork conducted in salt marsh and beach environments on Cape Cod. Students collect biological, geological, and physical data in the field, analyze that data in lab, and prepare and present group projects as part of this course.

As students of SEA, there are opportunities to take advantage of the exceptional local research facilities (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Marine Biological Laboratory, U.S. Geological Survey, and National Marine Fisheries), creating an ideal location for student introduction to the exciting field of marine science.

Oceans & Society

Students explore the historical, political, cultural and economic relationships between people and the oceans. Through an introduction to the skills and knowledge used by professional mariners over time, students examine how science and technology have developed both as a requirement for going to sea, and as a result of maritime experience.

Today, Cape Cod continues to be at the forefront of debates over fisheries management, ocean energy, and coastal development. To understand current issues related to ocean uses, students will visit maritime museums and local fishing industries, as well as meet with ocean policymakers and professional mariners – all while exploring the region’s extensive maritime culture.