Study Killer Whales in the Wild

  United States

• Other Cities in United States: 
Seattle

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: inquire for more info.

Description: Live on a sailboat and study endangered killer whales in their natural habitat of the Pacific Northwest. This 10-week program is perfect for anyone interested in Marine Field Science, conservation and sustainability, and adventure!

Beam Reach is for you if you want to:
- study endangered orcas in the wild
- work with experts in killer whale conservation
- learn about marine conservation and sustainability
- sail on a biodiesel electric catamaran
- learn in a small group and get lots of individual time with instructors
- work on science that matters and your own research project
- explore the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest
- earn 18 credits from the University of Washington

You don't have to be a science major to apply; you just have to be interested in the marine environment and want to have an unforgettable 10-week off-campus adventure.

Highlights:
* Study killer whales in the wild from a sailboat and land
* Test-drive life as a field scientist
* Explore the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest
* Access the world-class Labs at Friday Harbor
* Live on a sailboat

San Juan Islands
This is home base while you study with Beam Reach. The San Juan Archipelago is in the northwest corner of the continental United States. There are over 450 islands in the archipelago, but fewer than one-sixth are inhabited, and only six are accessible by public ferry.

San Juan Island is well known for its saltwater shore, quiet woodlands, and killer whales. It's home to the worlds only state park dedicated to land based whale watching, Lime Kiln State Park.

Friday Harbor Labs
Your land-based home during the program is within walking distance (or a 10 minute row!) of the town of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Its water front location is surrounded by 484 acres of biological preserves with hiking trails.

The Labs are home to leading scientists and house state-of-the-art equipment. Beam Reach students have access to all of the resources at the labs, and get to experience working with and around people who are participating in cutting-edge scientific research.

Home on a Sailboat
Your at-sea home during the program is a sailing catamaran called Gato Verde. There are many special features specific to catamarans and in particular to the Gato Verde.

The Gato Verde runs on a biodiesel electric motor - so there are no fossil fuels used. It is quiet while the motor is running, which makes research and living on the boat better and reduces underwater noise pollution.

Catamarans sail efficiently in light breezes and, when the wind picks up, are exciting and fast. They don't heel (lean over) like a traditional monohull, which results in less sea sickness and more comfort for those new to sailing. It has almost 1,000 square feet (that's a lot) of deck space, so you can move around easily and safely.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: $14,900

Tuition is $14,900 (USD).
While it is not likely, it is possible that dates and tuition may change.

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to United States Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Scholarships are Available. We offer limited scholarship money. This varies each program and it is advantageous to apply as early as possible for the greatest access to scholarship money.

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Other
• Resume
• Transcript
• Written Application

Beam Reach Marine Science and Sustainability School's Mission Statement: To provide undergraduates an opportunity to test drive life as field scientists. Students get to create their own research projects focusing on the endangered killer whales in the Pacific Northwest.