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Classes

• BIOL 314: Biodiversity: Coral Reefs

  This is an intensive, field-based course that looks at a specific region, its biological diversity and the physical and biotic factors that are significant in controlling this diversity. A variety of organisms will be considered with most attention given to organisms that are most readily observed (common plants, vertebrates and insects). Students will learn about specific organisms and understand how their structure, physiology and behavior influence their distribution and thereby the diversity of a region. The course will take advantage of the unique features of a particular region to consider the processes and the physical and biological attributes that contribute to the biodiversity of a region.

• BIOL 346: Biology of Invertebrates-Lab

  A survey of structure, classification, ecology, evolution, and physiology of the major groups of invertebrate animals. Field trips are sometimes scheduled outside the regular class period. This course has a pending $30.00 fee.

• BIOL 346: Biology of Invertebrates-Lec

  A survey of structure, classification, ecology, evolution, and physiology of the major groups of invertebrate animals. Field trips are sometimes scheduled outside the regular class period. This course has a pending $30.00 fee.

• GSCI 314: Geology of Reefs

  The study of the physio- chemical, geological, and biological processes that contribute to coral reef distribution and diversity. Topics covered in this course includes the biology of reef organisms, ecology of corals and the ecological dynamics of reefs, history of reefs, and earth processes that shape marine habitats and reef systems. The field portion of this course will take place at the Gerace Research Institute on San Salvador Island in The Bahamas during spring break. This study abroad experience will engage students in field surveys and research projects designed to explore questions related to reef development and biodiversity.

• H&PE 220: Freediving for Marine Research

  This course provides an introductory understanding and skill development for freediving data collection techniques in marine environments. Students will engage in freediving academic sessions that will deepen their knowledge of marine data collection techniques, human physiology, pressure, equipment, safety, and the marine environment. Scuba School International (SSI) online coursework will be completed to reinforce in-person academic sessions. Each academic session will be followed by a pool session that will allow for freediving skill development. Students will learn how to engage in snorkeling, finning techniques, equipment use, freediving safety, static apnea (with 1:1 buddy safety), dynamic apnea (with 1:1 buddy safety), duck dives, and deep-water buddy rescue. Following freediving skill development, students will utilize their skills to practice gathering data (related to biodiversity and geological sciences) in marine environments using a variety of techniques. Students have the option of completing the SSI Pool Freediver certification at the close of the course by completing two dynamic apnea swim assessments in the pool (with 1:1 buddy safety).