15 Marine Biology Summer Programs for High School Students in Florida

Participating in specialised summer programs offered by top colleges and organisations is a budget-friendly way for high school students to jumpstart their futures.

What do summer programs have to offer? What will I do as a program participant?

These initiatives allow you to dive into hands-on projects, helping you build practical skills like advanced technical writing or data analysis. They also open doors to real-world industry exposure, letting you look behind the curtain of various fields to see what day-to-day careers actually look like before committing to a college major. Most importantly, you walk away with valuable connections, building networks with professional mentors, professors, and like-minded peers. Many of these opportunities are surprisingly affordable, offering generous financial aid, stipends, or completely free tuition. 

Why should I participate in a marine biology summer program in high school?

Participation in a marine biology summer program offers you concrete benefits beyond simple exposure. You'll develop valuable technical skills in laboratory procedures, species identification, data analysis, and field research methodologies that are directly transferable to college coursework and future professional settings. Many programs provide you with letters of recommendation from faculty leaders and research mentors, which carry significant weight in college admissions. Additionally, the networking opportunities with peers who share your passion for ocean conservation can create a lasting support system and mentorship community.

This article details 15 marine biology summer programs for high school students in Florida, ranging from intensive week-long camps to multi-week paid internships:

P.S. If you're in Florida and want to keep exploring options, 13 Summer Internships for High School Students in Maine has some strong environmental and research programs worth looking at, and 15 Paid Environmental Science Internships for High School Students is a natural next read if marine biology is your thing. 

1. Eckerd College Marine Science Pre-College Program

Location: Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, FL
Cost: $2,250; limited need-based partial scholarships are available
Dates: Session 1: June 14–19; Session 2: June 21–26
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students entering 11th or 12th grade in fall; must pass a pool swim test (three full laps, 150 yards, without touching bottom)

In this program, you'll participate in hands-on marine science education modeled after Eckerd College's undergraduate curriculum, working directly with internationally-recognized faculty on the Gulf of Mexico waterfront. The program emphasizes field-based learning where you'll catch and release marine fish and invertebrates in seagrass beds. You'll observe wild dolphins in their natural habitat and conduct plankton tows aboard research vessels. You'll also examine live organisms under microscopes in the laboratory. Activities include visits to local nature preserves to observe alligators, tortoises, and birds of prey, providing comprehensive exposure to Florida's diverse marine and coastal ecosystems. The program culminates with the opportunity to reflect on your experiences.

2. Lumiere Education Research Program - Biology Track

Location: Remote (can participate from anywhere)
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on the program type; financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year; typically 12 weeks to 12 months depending on program selection
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)

In this program, you'll work one-on-one with Ph.D. mentors in a personalized research experience focused on marine science topics of your choosing, ranging from marine conservation to aquatic ecosystems. The program offers flexible options including a 12-week Individual Research Program where you produce a research paper, a 16-week Premium Program that includes publication preparation, and extended 6-12 month Research Fellowships for in-depth exploration. It pairs you with expert mentors who provide guidance throughout your independent research project, helping you navigate the scientific process from question formulation to conclusion. Many participants use their completed research for college applications, science fair competitions, or publication in academic journals. Apply now!

3. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium – High School Blue Crew

Location: FloridaClick to open side panel for more information 
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive; limited number of participant spaces 
Dates: Year-round; onboarding each summer (mandatory orientation on May 29) 
Application Deadline: April 15
Eligibility: Currently enrolled high school student; not a senior or already graduated at the time of application; have reliable transportation to and from the aquarium; available to attend onsite training

In this academic program, you engage in experiential learning focused on marine biology, conservation education, and animal care. You act as an Aquarium Guide at the new Mote Science Education Aquarium, interpreting exhibits and connecting guests to active marine research. Through hands-on academic engagement, you facilitate public animal encounters and develop strong science communication skills. As you progress, you gain opportunities for career shadowing, peer leadership, and deeper immersion into marine science workflows. Optional experiential learning opportunities at Mote Aquaculture Research Park further expose you to professional marine biology environments.

4. Eckerd College Coastal & Wildlife Ecology Pre-College Program

Location: Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, FL
Cost: $1,900; limited need-based and partial scholarships are available
Dates: June 7–12 (with optional staycation weekend June 12–14)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: Students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in fall; must pass a pool swim test (three full laps, 150 yards, without touching bottom)

In this program, you'll explore environmental studies, including coastal management, green infrastructure, environmental communication, and field research through an interdisciplinary curriculum taught by accomplished faculty and conducted at Eckerd's waterfront campus and the surrounding Tampa Bay area. Activities include kayaking along barrier islands and through mangrove forests, participating in data collection for active field research projects, interacting directly with Florida's native flora and fauna, and visiting local aquariums to understand wildlife protection efforts. You'll learn how scientists communicate about environmental research and take part in coastal resiliency projects on campus that address real conservation challenges. You'll conclude the program with a staycation weekend in St. Petersburg, exploring off-campus attractions and natural areas with program counselors and local guides.

5. Dolphin Research Center – Teen DolphinLab

Location: Marathon, Florida
Cost: $1,600 – $2,050; scholarships are available
Dates: July 12–17; July 19–24
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Eligibility: Ages 15–17; complete a required parent and teen orientation webinar

As a participant in the Teen DolphinLab, you engage in marine biology through hands-on coursework and experiential learning at the Dolphin Research Center. You study dolphin cognition, physiology, and husbandry through daily discussion-based seminars. You interact with dolphins and sea lions during trainer-guided in-water sessions, applying observational techniques to identify unique physical and behavioral characteristics. You observe live medical and training demonstrations to understand applied marine mammal care practices. You also explore career pathways by shadowing professionals and conducting informal interviews with the facility's training staff. Ultimately, you build foundational knowledge in marine mammal science and practical animal handling skills necessary for future conservation careers.

6. Florida Keys: Marine & Wildlife Conservation Program

Location: Florida Keys (various field sites including John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park)
Cost: $6,999 (Airfare is not included)
Dates: June 28 – July 13
Application Deadline: Rolling admission until all spots are filled
Eligibility: Students currently completing grades 8, 9, or 10 (Approximately ages 13–15)

In this program, you'll participate in projects including coral nursery restoration, where you'll learn techniques to nurture and replant coral crucial to reef ecosystems, shark conservation initiatives providing insight into apex predator management, and participation in the Volunteer Fish Survey Project, contributing citizen science data used by resource managers worldwide. You'll snorkel around coral nurseries and active restoration sites while practicing fish identification, learn about invasive species like lionfish and their ecological impacts, and engage with industry professionals through panel discussions about careers in marine biology and environmental education. The program uses a service-learning framework with structured reflection on your conservation work's real-world impact.

7. Whitney Laboratory SHORE Academy High School Camp

Location: Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, St. Augustine, FL
Cost: $400
Dates: June 22–26
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in fall 2026; must have completed high school level biology, environmental science, or marine science

In this program, you'll participate in a week-long intensive research experience where you'll investigate marine environments using the same methodologies employed by professional scientists. You'll learn everything from selecting sampling sites and collection methods through monitoring water chemistry and analyzing data. This hands-on program includes work with standard marine research equipment, laboratory analysis methods, and potentially collaboration with OCEARCH's shark research program. The curriculum balances classroom learning with practical field experience, emphasizing the scientific process and rigorous methodology. Maximum enrollment is limited to 12 students per session, ensuring personalized attention and substantial mentoring from faculty and undergraduate assistants, allowing you to get the most out of your experience.

8. University of South Florida Oceanography Camp Especially for Girls

Location: University of South Florida, Tampa, FL (College of Marine Science)
Cost: None
Dates: June 8–26
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Young women entering high school (typically rising 9th graders); residents of Pinellas County given priority; applications open to surrounding areas as capacity allows

In this program, you'll participate in an intensive three-week ocean science exploration program specifically designed for young women entering high school, hosted by USF's College of Marine Science. The program aims to inspire you to consider career opportunities in marine sciences through immersive, hands-on experiences with professional oceanographers and marine researchers. Daily activities include field investigations of Florida's diverse aquatic environments, laboratory work, and interactions with practicing scientists who share their expertise and career paths. The program balances rigorous scientific instruction with mentorship focused specifically on supporting women's participation in STEM fields and marine science careers. By program conclusion, you'll have developed competency in multiple marine science disciplines.

9. Clearwater Marine Aquarium Summer Camps

Location: Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater, FL
Cost: $250 and above per week ($230 for members)
Dates: Multiple sessions between June 1 – August 7 (specific session dates vary by program track)
Application Deadline: Rolling registration; sessions fill based on enrollment
Eligibility: Students up to 18 years old who are currently in high school; possess basic swimming skills and be self-sufficient; specialized camps like Advanced Marine Biology require campers to be at least 15 years old by the start date

In this program, you'll choose from multiple marine science camp options, all conducted by marine biologists and animal care experts at a working aquarium facility. Programs include the Junior Marine Biologist camp, where you'll investigate ocean life through hands-on experiments in animal behavior and water chemistry, the Marine Zoology program focusing on marine animal biology and adaptation, and specialized tracks like Flippers, Flukes & Feathers exploring rescue and conservation. Each program includes snorkeling during camp sessions (where applicable), field trips to nearby nature parks, behind-the-scenes tours of the aquarium's animal hospital, and learning from staff caring for rescued marine animals. You'll participate in hands-on activities demonstrating conservation principles and understanding how individual actions impact marine ecosystems.

10. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

Location: Nationwide placement within 45 minutes of student's home (including Florida locations)
Stipend: $3,000
Dates: 8 weeks during summer 2026 (specific dates determined by mentor placement)
Application Deadline: January 25
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old by the application deadline; U.S. residency required

In this program, you'll participate in an eight-week paid summer internship with mentorship from fisheries professionals, matched to a position within 45 minutes of your home across all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. It aims to increase diversity in the fisheries profession by engaging underrepresented students in hands-on aquatic science work. You'll perform tasks ranging from fish population surveys to habitat restoration, laboratory work, or educational program support. You'll develop professional relationships with mentors and peers who share your conservation passion, building a network that supports your future academic and career decisions.

11. Loggerhead Marinelife Center – Youth Ocean Leader High School Summer Program

Location: Juno Beach, FL
Cost: $25 onboarding fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size not publicly disclosed 
Dates: Typically conducted during the summer break 
Application Deadline: April 11
Eligibility: At least 16 years of age; enrolled in high school; 

As a Youth Ocean Leader at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, you participate in an experiential academic program centered on marine biology and environmental conservation. You work alongside professional camp counselors to deliver structured educational activities to younger students attending the Jr. Marine Biologist summer program. Your practical responsibilities include facilitating hands-on learning modules, guiding outdoor marine explorations, and engaging with the public about coastal ecosystems. Through these instructional workflows, you gain direct experience communicating complex marine science concepts to diverse audiences. Additionally, you develop professional skills in environmental education, teamwork, and program operations within an active sea turtle rehabilitation facility.

12. Jacksonville University Marine Science Summer Camp

Location: Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, FL (with field trips to regional coastal areas)
Cost/Stipend: $425; additional $100; lunch included daily
Dates: June 22–26 
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions until the camp is full 
Eligibility: High school students aged 14–18

In this camp, you'll investigate marine environments using standard scientific methodology from sampling site selection through data presentation. Activities include field trips to diverse locations such as the St. Johns River, Little Talbot Island, Fort George Inlet, and Mayport. You'll collect and identify fish and invertebrate species, monitor water chemistry, and analyze data in graphical formats. You'll gain hands-on experience with professional marine research equipment and laboratory analysis techniques used by scientists. The program includes visits to facilities like Safe Harbor Seafood and the Jacksonville Zoo, beach clean-ups, shark tooth hunts, and behind-the-scenes learning about OCEARCH shark research conducted at Jacksonville University.

13. Ocean First Institute Shark Biology Field Course

Location: Florida Keys (specific field sites)
Cost: $2,500
Dates: June 2–6; June 16–20; June 29 – July 3
Application Deadline: Rolling; early registration encouraged as spots fill quickly
Eligibility: Advanced high school students interested in shark biology and marine conservation

In this course, you'll train directly with leading shark biologists in an immersive field course led by Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza (CEO & Chief Scientist of Ocean First Institute) and Dr. Christopher Malinowski. This program offers rare access to experts actively conducting cutting-edge shark science and conservation research in the Florida Keys. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on field research methodology, shark behavior and ecology, conservation challenges, and the role of apex predators in marine ecosystems. Program spots are limited and fill on a first-come, first-served basis, making early registration important. You can register for multiple preferred course dates, with scheduling flexibility based on program availability.

14. Seacamp in Big Pine Key

Location: Seacamp, Big Pine Key, FL (Florida Keys)
Cost: 2-Week Residential Sessions: $5,050 per session (+$650 for optional SCUBA certification); 1-Week Residential Sessions: $2,300 per session; need-based scholarships and discounts are available
Dates: Session 1 (2-Week): June 25 – July 9; Session 2 (2-Week): July 12–26; Session 3 (1-Week): July 29 – August 4; Session 4 (1-Week): August 5–11
Application Deadline: Rolling registration
Eligibility: Students ages 10-17

In this camp, you'll attend America's longest-running marine science camp, offering one- and two-week intensive summer sessions emphasizing marine research, exploration via snorkeling and scuba, traditional water sports, and environmental education. You'll develop advanced marine science skills through hands-on fieldwork, species identification, research projects, and ecological monitoring. Campus programs combine marine science instruction with sailing, lifesaving, windsurfing, photography, and campcraft activities, all conducted on a safe, state-of-the-art campus. Alumni frequently return in leadership roles, demonstrating the program's lasting impact on marine science careers and environmental commitment.

15. MarineLab High School Student Summer Internship

Location: MarineLab, Key Largo, FL
Stipend: $15/hour
Dates: June 1 – August 9
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors or seniors; must be Monroe County resident; possess the ability to independently transport yourself to and from MarineLab (via personal vehicle, public transit, or bike); strong swimmer and snorkeler; enjoy working with children

In this program, you'll gain practical experience in marine science education working as an intern. You'll assist instructors on snorkel field trips, helping facilitate summer camp activities including labs and games, and supporting program setup and cleanup. You'll work directly with marine science instructors teaching students about coral reefs, marine life, and conservation, gaining valuable experience in science education and public outreach. This opportunity particularly benefits students interested in pursuing careers in marine science education, environmental interpretation, or nonprofit marine conservation organizations. Upon successful completion, you'll develop strong professional connections and gain a detailed recommendation letter valuable for college applications.

One more option - The Ladder Internship Program

Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Cost varies according to the program type; financial aid is available / No stipend
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 10–25% acceptance; 70–100 students per cohort
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: Varies depending on the cohort; Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September) and Winter (November)
Eligibility: High school students, undergraduates, and gap year students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks

The Ladder Internship program is a selective, fully virtual eight-week experience founded by Harvard alumni that matches you with real-world startups and NGOs to work on tangible projects. You can choose from tracks covering AI, software engineering, finance, media, health tech, environmental science, consulting, mental health, fashion, and non-profits. As an intern, you will meet weekly with a company coach, build a prototype or analyze market data, and map out structured deliverables. This unique environment gives you direct access to founders and a dedicated mentor, allowing you to develop essential professional workflow and communication skills. Finally, you will showcase your growth and technical skills by presenting a completed, portfolio-ready project to company leadership. 

Dhruva Bhat is one of the co-founders of Ladder, and a Harvard College graduate. Dhruva founded Ladder Internships as a DPhil candidate and Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University, with a vision to bridge the gap between ambitious students and real-world startup experiences.