Study Abroad Semester in Colombia
Aquarium Internship • Rescue Diver Training • Sea Turtle Conservation • Up to 12 Credits
Aquarium Internship • Rescue Diver Training • Sea Turtle Conservation
May 13 – August 8, 2026 | 12 Weeks | Up to 12 Credit Hours*
Spend a full semester in Santa Marta, Colombia gaining real-world marine science experience while earning college credit and advancing your scuba diving certifications. Students participate in a professional aquarium internship, complete dive training through Rescue Diver, and support a sea turtle head start conservation program, all while enrolled in college coursework that complements their field experience.
Hands-on experience is an essential part of the learning process, and this semester is designed to give students practical, career-building experience rather than classroom-only learning.
Program Overview
Aquarium Internship Experience
Students gain professional experience working with an operating public aquarium in Colombia, learning:
• Water quality testing and monitoring
• Animal husbandry and daily care procedures
• Life support system operations
• Aquarium operations and professional workflow
• Team-based animal care and research support practices
Scuba Training Through Rescue Diver
Students complete dive training progressing through Rescue Diver certification, depending on current certification level.
Participants gain:
• Strong dive safety skills
• Rescue and emergency response training
• Experience diving in Caribbean coral environments
• Increased underwater confidence and field capability
Sea Turtle Head Start Conservation Program
Students will also work alongside conservation teams supporting sea turtle head start efforts, which may include:
• Supporting turtle care and rehabilitation activities
• Assisting with preparation for release programs
• Learning conservation practices and marine species protection methods
• Participating in education and conservation outreach opportunities
Academics & Credit
Students enroll in two college courses during the semester that complement internship and field experience.
Participants may earn up to 12 college credit hours, depending on coursework completed and academic plans.
What’s Included
Program fee: $7,800
Includes:
• Student housing accommodations
• Local transportation support
• Aquarium internship placement
• Academic course enrollment
• Dive training through Rescue Diver level
• Program coordination and on-site support
Meals and personal expenses are not included.
Important Travel Notice
This program requires a minimum number of enrolled students to operate.
Please do not purchase airfare or finalize travel plans until notified that the program minimum has been met.
Once minimum enrollment is confirmed, students will receive official travel instructions and preparation details.
Who This Program Is For
Ideal for students seeking:
• Real marine science field experience abroad
• Aquarium and husbandry career exposure
• Dive certifications with practical experience
• Conservation work supporting sea turtle recovery
• College credit combined with international experience
Program Details
Location: Santa Marta, Colombia
Dates: May 18 – August 8, 2026
Duration: 12 weeks
Credits: Up to 12 credit hours
Program Cost: $7,800
Next Steps
Ready to secure your spot?
👉
Apply Here:
https://form.jotform.com/202794193042151
Questions? Contact Moore Marine College Admissions for assistance.
* The transferability of credits you earn at Moore Marine College is at the complete discretion of an institution to which you may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the credits you earn in the educational program from Moore Marine College is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which you may seek to transfer. If the credits that you earn at this institution are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required to repeat some or all of your coursework at that institution. For this reason, you should make certain that your attendance at this institution will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which you may seek to transfer after attending Moore Marine College to determine if your credits will transfer.
