Semester@Skidaway Field Study Program

The Semester at Skidaway Field Study program places students on the Georgia coast for a unique learning experience. Learn methods and concepts from leaders in marine science research and visit all the ecosystems and environments which make the region special. Students will participate in field trips to scientifically and culturally relevant locations, explore the coastal area on the Skidaway Institute’s fleet of small vessels, and cruise on the R/V Savannah for an overnight research expedition. 

Designed for students enrolled in the University of Georgia’s B.S. degree in Ocean Science, this program will include classroom and field activities which satisfy portions of the core and elective course requirements.

Students from other institutions may be able to apply for this program and should email Bev Vantine at bev.vantine@uga.edu for more information.

A recap of the 2024 Semester at Skidaway program is available here. 

Courses – 17 Credits

Students may have the opportunity to register for research credits (MARS 4960R) and work in the laboratories of Skidaway Institute scientists. Contact the program director for details.

Housing at the Skidaway Institute

Students will live on Skidaway’s 700-acre campus located along the Skidaway River. Housing units are recently renovated and include air conditioning, WiFi, and kitchen areas along with other amenities. Rooming costs are included in the program fee, but program participants will need to purchase their own food. 

Skidaway Institute is located a short drive from downtown Savannah. Students will find Savannah to be a welcoming city that is home to excellent restaurants, museums, and historical sites. The beaches of Tybee Island are 45 minutes from campus.

One of several housing units, The Commons includes four bedrooms. The kitchen and living areas are common to all.

Program Details

Fall 2025 Program: August 10 to December 10
Cost: $3100 (estimated) includes housing, one group meal per week, field trips, and laboratory supplies. UGA students are eligible to apply for scholarships to offset a portion of this cost. Details are available at the UGA Experiential Learning website.
Program Director: Dr. Clifton Buck
Email: csbuck@uga.edu
Office: 912-598-2418
Department of Marine Sciences Contact: Bev Vantine  at bev.vantine@uga.edu

Funding has been provided by the UGA Parents Leadership Council.