Coral Reef Conservation: Caribbean - Spring 2026

Gap Program
Healthy coral reefs are vital for thriving and successful island communities, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Caribbean.

Historically, coral reefs and their interconnected ecosystems have safeguarded islands, supported growing populations with food, and contributed to tourism and economic growth. However, numerous local and global threats, such as resource extraction, declining water quality, rising temperatures, and reduced pH levels, endanger the Caribbean region, making it one of the most impacted areas worldwide.

An investigative science and policy program examining the impacts of human actions on Caribbean coral reef ecosystems, the importance of coral reefs to island communities, and the full range of reef management strategies.

Beginning with six weeks in Woods Hole, students develop background knowledge to understand the history, science, and policy strategies involved in managing coral reefs. Through hands-on coursework and discussions with leading experts, students will explore the ecological and societal importance of reefs, preparing them for field research in the Caribbean. 

In the six weeks of their field experience, students will apply their knowledge into the field, conducting coral research and engaging with local communities. Students will develop and refine reef survey techniques, collect initial observations for comparative reef projects and collaborate with local, academic, and governmental partners to support ongoing conservation efforts.  

Coral Reef Conservation: Caribbean examines how local, academic, governmental, and international organizations and businesses work together to protect and sustainably manage Caribbean coral reef ecosystems. With almost a week in each location, students will directly contribute to conservation efforts, gaining hands-on experience in real-world environmental management. 

For their field component, students will live aboard SEA’s SSV Corwith Cramer. While sailing between St. Croix, Anguilla, and Dominica students will experience life at sea and deploy scientific equipment focused on understanding ocean chemistry and biodiversity beyond the coastal shoreline, providing a regional perspective of how this effects coral reefs

Spring 2026
-
-
Woods Hole, MA
-
At Sea
Apply Now

Learning Objectives

Students participating in this program can expect the following:
Develop and refine snorkel-based coral reef and tropical marine ecology survey techniques
Conduct research at field stations and in coastal communities
Contribute to marine conservation and policy efforts
Cultivate a comparative approach to understanding reef management strategies while honing science communication skills

Locations

U.S. Virgin Islands, Anguilla, and Dominica

Port Stops

*Port stops are not guaranteed and will be evaluated based on weather conditions closer to the sea component.

St. Croix

Anguilla

Dominica

Academic Credit

Course Descriptions & Syllabi

This program carries 15 semester hour credits from Boston University for successful completion of the program.

Syllabi for previous years are available for review. Detailed course content for future programs is dependent on cruise track, seasons, port stops, current events and faculty, and will be available closer to the program start date.

explore more of our Gap Programs

Climate Change & Coastal Resilience: Aotearoa New Zealand

Gap Program

Spring 2025

Jan 06 - Mar 28

Learn More