Biology of the Florida Keys 2023

Don't miss this amazing opportunity to study on-site at Marine Lab in the Florida Keys, visit a sea turtle hospital, and more!

This course focuses on the biology of the Florida Keys ecosystems. Major topics include invertebrate diversity, seagrass ecology, coral reef ecology, mangrove ecology, and the identification of reef fish and sea turtles. A typical day includes 2-3 snorkeling excursions to various ecosystems, lab activities, discussions, and lectures.

You will learn about the unique environment of southern Florida, the interactions between the mangroves, sea grasses, and coral reefs firsthand each day. As well as how to identify reef fish and discuss their varied adaptations. Students will also get to conduct ongoing investigations and data sampling to learn about water quality in the area.

• 3 credit hours/4 contact hours (lecture/lab)
• Main Areas of Focus
  • Sea Grasses | You will have the chance to explore this important nursery area for important species.
  • Coral Reefs | Swim with parrot fish, sea fans, jellyfish, and much more at several reef locations.
  • Mangroves | Learn about and snorkel in these trees that grow along the coastline of the keys.

About Marine Lab

Marine Lab is an educational facility that is dedicated to educating students about the marine environment. Their mission is to use education and adventure in the Florida Keys marine ecosystem to foster environmental awareness and stewardship on a local, regional, and global scale. Learn more about Marine Lab.

Who should take this course?

• This course is an elective biology course and provides an introduction to marine biology. This course is open to any student but is best suited for students pursuing a Math & Science Studies Transfer or Liberal Studies Transfer Associate Degree at Mid. It is especially suited for those students planning to specialize in the biology field.

What is a typical day like at Marine Lab?

• Each day begins with an early breakfast followed by a morning snorkel trip. After returning, students then enjoy lunch and depart for the afternoon snorkel trip. This is followed by dinner. Evenings typically consist of lab/lecture/discussion and possibly a night boat excursion. Students are typically busy 8am-10pm.

Course Schedule

• Monday, June 5 | Pre-Trip Meeting on the Mt. Pleasant Campus
• Monday, June 5 - Tuesday, August 8 | Online Coursework
• Wednesday, August 9 - Tuesday, August 15 | Trip to Marine Lab

Course Cost & Financial Aid

• TRAVEL FEES Approximately $1,400 per student
  • Includes round trip airfare, transportation in Florida, lodging and meals at Marine Lab, snorkel gear rental and trips, admission to Bahia Honda State Park, and Sea Turtle Hospital tour.
• TUITION & FEES Approximately $800 per in-district student and $1,200 per out-district student.
• FINANCIAL AID Contact Financial Aid prior to making a deposit for this course to determine if financial aid will be available to cover a portion of your tuition and fees.
  • Email finaid@midmich.edu | Call (989) 386-6664 | Schedule an appointment.

Important Dates & Next Steps

• NOW - APRIL 30 Complete the Reserve My Spot Form (if spots remain), which also requires the payment of a non-refundable $400 deposit.
  • There are limited spots for this course and if the initial section fills before April 30, a waitlist will be started for a second section.
• APRIL 3 When Summer 2023 registration opens on April 3, you will be auto-enrolled in this course.
• MAY 5 All Courses | Tuition Due by 4pm (Make payments on campus or via myMid) Students with unpaid tuition will be de-registered from their courses.
• MAY 22 Summer courses begin.
• MAY 26 All Courses | Tuition Due by 4pm (Make payments on campus or via myMid) Students with unpaid tuition will be de-registered from their courses.
• AUGUST 9-15 Travel to Marine Lab

Course Scholarships

• The deadline for scholarships applications has passed. Instructor Trish Finerty will contact applicants with more information.