Coral Reef Conservation: Fiji
Fiji is home to some of the South Pacific’s most extensive coral reefs. According to Mangubhai 2016, 3.5% of the world’s coral reefs reside around Fiji.
As climate change and land-use changes impact coral reefs around the world, Fiji provides a unique case study for the benefits of a network of marine protected areas that include ecosystem-based management strategies. EMB is just one example of a holistic and collaborative approach in uniting sustainable development and biodiversity protection.
Students participating in this program can expect the following:
- Understand local management strategies used to protect marine resources including corals
- Develop and refine snorkel-based coral reef and tropical marine ecology survey techniques
- Conduct marine conservation research in partnership with local communities in Fiji
Summer 2025:
July 10 – August 10, 2025
July 10 – July 22, 2025: Remote shore component in Fiji
July 23 – August 10, 2025: At sea
Locations:
Cakaulevu Reef, Namena Marine Reserve, Rainbow Reef
*Locations are subject to change
Program Description
Through coursework in Fiji followed by a research voyage at sea, students in this summer program will study tropical marine ecosystems, their ecological and socio-economic roles, and how humans affect coral reefs through terrestrial activities, climate change impacts, and diversity of management strategies.
While on shore in Fiji, students will learn about coral reef science, oceanography, climate change, environmental history, and policy strategies used in Fiji. They will also design comparative reef projects to be carried out on shore and at sea in the tropical Pacific. During their time at sea aboard the SSV Robert C. Seamans, students will participate in snorkel-based reef survey techniques by collecting marine ecology and oceanography data across reefs in Fiji. Students will also learn how to crew a tall ship and hone leadership skills, all while voyaging in some of the most remote and pristine regions around Fiji.
This program is for any student interested in exploring the changing Pacific Ocean environment through hands-on research and leadership experience at sea and is an opportunity to contribute to a growing body of knowledge about the health of coral reefs.
Coral Reef Conservation: Fiji welcomes students of all majors.
Academic Credit
This program offers 4 credits from Boston University for successful completion of the program.
Course Descriptions & Syllabi
Directed Oceanographic Research (300-level, 4 credits)
Prerequisite of three lab science courses (one at the 300-level or higher) or consent of instructor.
Design and conduct original oceanographic research. Collect data and analyze samples. Compile results in peer-reviewed manuscript format and share during oral or poster presentation session. Emphasis on development of research skills and written/oral communication abilities.
Practical Oceanographic Research (200-level, 4 credits)
Introduction to oceanographic research. Design a collaborative, hypothesis-driven project following the scientific process. Collect original data. Conduct analysis and interpretation, then prepare a written report and oral presentation.
Syllabi for previous years are available for review. Detailed course content for future programs is dependent on cruise track, seasons, port stops, current events and faculty, and will be available closer to the program start date.
