Southern Miss Summer Field Program Returns for its 78th Year Providing Unforgettable Educational Experiences
Thu, 04/17/2025 - 01:34pm | By: Gabriela Shinskie
Undergraduate and graduate students can dive into the world of coastal research and hands-on opportunities through The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) Summer Field Program at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory (GCRL) in Ocean Springs, Miss. The two-session program continues to showcase the uniqueness of the Mississippi Gulf Coast while providing students with intensive academic and field experiences.
Offered by the Southern Miss School of Ocean Science and Engineering, the program will run its first session May 27 through June 25 and its second session June 26 through July 30. The first session will offer a variety of courses including barrier island ecology, marine invertebrate zoology and cetacean behavior. The second session will focus on marine conservation, marine toxicology and ichthyology. Both will have opportunities for field work aboard USM research vessels.
Dr. Jessie Kastler, Marine Education Center director, emphasized the importance of intense fieldwork, experience and preparation for Blue Economy careers and the value the program brings to those enrolled.
“Field-based marine science is transformative. I got my start as a field scientist, and I’ve seen how hands-on experience in our Summer Field Program builds skills, confidence and a deep understanding of ocean ecosystems. Learning alongside marine scientists in the field launches incredible careers. There’s no better way to learn than by doing,” said Kastler.
Since 1947, the Summer Field Program has helped create fond memories and shape experiences for a lifetime. Students will be able to utilize on-site amenities including the specimen museum, research labs, dining hall and dormitory.
Dr. Laura Blackmon, Summer Field Program and facility associate director is ready to showcase all GCRL has to offer this summer and has witnessed former students obtain careers through hands-on technology and fieldwork.
“The Summer Field Program will hold its 78th consecutive year of classes at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in 2025. During its long-standing history, alumni from the program have gone on to careers in marine science including holding positions at GCRL, USM, state and federal agencies, as well as multiple colleges, universities and marine labs across the country,” said Blackmon.
Final deadline for all applications is May 1. Click here to learn more about USM’s Summer Field Program and be ready for adventure.