<p>Has anyone here done the SEA semester program out of Wood's Hole? In particular, I'm interested in the oceanography program (Oceans and Climate) that is run in the Fall.</p>
<p>I'm also interested in finding out more about other semester-long programs that are centered around field/experiential learning and focus on oceangraphy/biological oceanography or higher-level marine biology/ecology. I did an extensive field-based marine biology program for a year, so I'm not looking for introductory biology/ecology courses, but I don't have a solid background in oceanography yet. They don't have to be boat-based. So far, I've looked at SEA semester, Sea-mester and Beam Reach - does anyone know of others?</p>
<p>Hello! I am an alumna and current employee of the SEA Semester program based in Woods Hole. Sea Education Association (SEA), the non-profit that runs the SEA Semester undergraduate study abroad program, is a very highly regarded institution in the field of marine science. Not only do you learn an INCREDIBLE amount about ocean sciences, maritime history/culture/policy, and sailing - it’s also a very transformative experience that many SEA alums will tell you was the greatest experience of their lives, for SO many reasons. I could probably write you 15 pages on my personal experience alone… but I’ll spare you for now!</p>
<p>It seems like you are a good fit for SEA’s oceanography-focused program, Oceans & Climate. O&C is very much focused on the research experience, scientific method, and the ocean’s role in global climate change. In addition to hands-on oceanographic research, you also learn about what the research means in terms of Public Policy - and you learn the sailing & navigation typical of all SEA Semester programs. That being said, you would also gain a significant oceanography experience through coursework and research through SEA’s Ocean Exploration semester. OE is offered all semesters, so depending on your availability might work out better for your schedule. </p>
<p>SEA is the best choice if you are looking for a program strong in the marine sciences and research. Actually, check out one of SEA’s current voyages collecting data on plastics pollution in the Atlantic Ocean: [Plastics</a> at SEA | North Atlantic Expedition | Sea Education Association (SEA)](<a href=“http://www.sea.edu/plastics/index.htm]Plastics”>http://www.sea.edu/plastics/index.htm) </p>
<p>Please feel free to email me so we can talk more about SEA! <a href=“mailto:carlas@sea.edu”>carlas@sea.edu</a></p>