Exploring Marine Biology in the Great Barrier Reef
Cairns, Australia
Why you should go
This program is located in Cairns, Australia, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system and one of only seven natural wonders of the world. This Global Seminar combines classroom learning with field-based exploration of coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass meadows, and tropical rainforests. Students will snorkel on the reef, visit a marine turtle rehabilitation center, explore the Daintree Rainforest, and meet with conservation managers. They will learn about biodiversity, conservation, and climate change impacts in one of the most ecologically rich places on Earth. This is a unique opportunity to study marine biology in the field, connect with local conservation and management efforts, and gain first-hand experience with incredible marine biodiversity.
Courses
- SIO 37GS: Ocean Conservation, Governance, and Global Change (draft PDF)
- SIO 138GS: Marine Ecology and Biodiversity (draft PDF)
Faculty Leader
Liz Hetheringtonehetherington@ucsd.edu
Liz Hetherington is an Assistant Teaching Professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the Director of the Environmental Systems (ESYS) Program. She is a marine ecologist with 15 years of experience studying food webs, biodiversity, and community ecology in marine ecosystems around the world. Liz has led and participated in fieldwork in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, from local fieldwork for courses at UCSD to large oceanographic expeditions. She is enthusiastic about hands-on teaching and helping students explore the ocean through immersive field experiences.
Who should go
Anyone interested in marine biology, ocean conservation, or ecology is strongly encouraged to apply. The content and unique experiences in this program are ideal for students with majors in Marine Biology, Environmental Systems (Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution, or Environmental Policy tracks), and Biology (Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution). SIO27GS has no prerequisites. SIO138GS is an upper division course that has BILD3 (or consent of instructor) as a prerequisite. Consult your college academic advisor to determine how the courses will apply to your graduation requirements.
Information Sessions
- General (choose one):
- Tue, Sept. 30th, 3-4 pm (zoom)
- Tue, Oct. 28th, 3:30-4 pm (in-person)
- Monday, October 27th, noon - 1 PM
- Register here for the live Zoom link, and/or to get the post-session recording.
Dates
| Departure from U.S.: | Sat., June 27, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Arrival: | Sun., June 28, 2026 |
| Mandatory Orientation: | Mon., June 29, 2026 |
| First Day of Class: | Mon., June 29, 2026 |
| Last Day of Class: | Fri., July 31, 2026 |
| Departure for the U.S. (or personal travel): |
Sat., August 1, 2026 |
- You will be responsible for purchasing your own airplane tickets, and your program coordinator will provide guidelines and resources during the pre-departure process to help you find an appropriate flight.
- Do not purchase plane tickets until the program is confirmed. All approved applicants will be notified by e-mail when the program has reached minimum enrollment.
Global Seminar Fees
All fees subject to change. See https://summersession.ucsd.edu/tuition/tuition.html for current tuition and campus-based fees.
| UCSD | Other UC | Non-UC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Program Cost: (includes $500 administrative fee) |
TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Estimated Tuition and Campus-Based Fees: |
$2,520.49 | $2,570.49 | $3,580.49 |
| Total: (not including airfare or personal expenses) |
TBD | TBD | TBD |
Calculate the Full Cost
- Calculator coming soon!
Funding Options
See the funding options page to learn how financial aid and scholarships can help you pay for this program.
Local visits
- 3 night excursion to OIRS Research Station
- Fitzroy Island day trip
- Cairns Turtle Rehab Center
- Cairns Aquarium & Mangrove Boardwalk
- Daintree Rainforest & Estuarine Ecosystems
Excursions are subject to change without prior notice. No refunds are possible.
Housing
- Not yet confirmed, but likely in shared hotel rooms (2 students per room)
- 10 minutes from classroom space
- Wireless Internet available in rooms and common areas throughout the building
- Sheets and towels are provided
- Housing arrangements are subject to change based on local circumstances without prior notice. No price adjustments are possible.
Included Meals
- Welcome dinner upon arrival
- Farewell dinner at end of program
Classroom and Computer Access
- Classroom space at the CQ University
- Wireless Internet in the classroom
- There is no computer lab available - plan to bring a laptop.
- Wireless access may be intermittent due to local conditions. No refunds or price adjustments are possible.
Transportation
- Transportation from Cairns airport to the student housing is included in the program. Pick up times will be arranged based on the most common flight arrival times.
- Cairns is a very walkable city
- Transportation for all out of town excursions
Phones
- Information about how to obtain a local SIM card will be provided at the pre-departure orientation.
- Students will be responsible to purchase their own calling time/minutes.
Insurance, Health, and Safety
- Comprehensive insurance package
- An in-depth orientation will be given on the day after arrival, including health and safety procedures.
- Program partner staff will be available by telephone after hours.
- All students will be registered for UC travel insurance. This is free coverage.
