Registration will open early January 2025. Sign up for our newsletter below for program updates.
This Pre-College at Eckerd program is a chance for high school students to delve into the science of sharks and rays. They will learn about current research dealing with these fascinating animals, work in the laboratory with preserved specimens, and embark on field trips to see sharks and rays in their natural environment.
Students will learn about a variety of aspects of elasmobranch (shark and ray) science—including the animals’ unique characteristics and diversity, how they behave and interact with their aquatic environment and other species, and how scientists study these aspects of their biology and ecology.
Activities
Students should come prepared to:
- Participate in lectures presented by scientists
- Handle preserved specimens while identifying their key characteristics in the lab
- Get wet while collecting and examining local species from the beach shore and College vessels
June 22-27, 2025
Students entering 11th or 12th grade in Fall 2025
$2,200
Cost includes: participation in (and transportation for) all sessions, activities, labs, program supplies, field trips, entrance fees, use of college recreational facilities, meals, lodging and snacks.
Program Requirement
Students must be able to pass the swim test, three full laps for a total of 150 yards, without touching the bottom of the pool, using any style and with no time limit.
Required Forms
Eckerd Marine Science in the news
- Reduce Single-Use Plastics at Eckerd College team educates youth at Jane Goodall event - October 29, 2024
- Eckerd College senior joins ‘Florida Undergraduate Research Journal’ editorial board - September 19, 2024
- From sea cucumbers to environmental DNA research, new Eckerd College marine science professor brings unique opportunities for students - September 18, 2024
Room and Board
Facilities
Few colleges have a more attractive setting than Eckerd College. Our 188-acre waterfront campus provides a magnificent atmosphere and safe environment. Eckerd College is located in St. Petersburg, just off I-275 exit 17.
Directions & MapCounselors
Residential counselors work with students in the late afternoons, evenings and overnight. Staff consists of well-trained current Eckerd College students and recent graduates eager to share their enthusiasm for learning.
Housing
Students will live in air-conditioned Eckerd College student residence halls, double- or triple- room occupancy, reserved exclusively for participants in this program. Counselors will be present in each single-sex residence hall.
Meals
Student participants will eat in the main cafeteria which can accommodate allergies, lactose and gluten-free diets. We also have kosher, vegetarian and vegan options available to students. If you have particular needs, please be sure to note them on the General and Medical Information form.
Refund Policy
| Withdrawal Date | Refund |
|---|---|
| 60 days before start date | 100% |
| 30 days before start date | 50% |
| 20 days before start date | 20% |
| <20 days before start date | 0% |
Processing fee of $25 is non-refundable.
No refund will be issued for the following:
- If a participant fails to show up for the program.
- If a participant is dismissed from the program by the College.
Participants who cancel their registration and are eligible for a refund should contact precollege@eckerd.edu or 727.864.8422.
Subscribe to Receive Pre-College Program Updates:
Quick Contact
Kristen Rynerson
Conference and Pre-College Coordinator
precollege@eckerd.edu
727.864.8422
