Curriculum

Marine Studies 1 introduces students to the fundamentals of marine science through hands-on learning in topics such as aquarium setup and maintenance, marine science tools, oceanography, aquaculture, and marine ecosystems. Students explore ocean exploration, marine technologies, shipping industries, and international issues in marine science, while also gaining insight into related careers and organizations.

As part of the course, all students complete the CT DEEP Safe Boating Certification, laying the groundwork for future fieldwork and marine-based experiences.

Marine Studies 2 builds on foundational knowledge by exploring the structure, origin, and physical properties of the ocean, including energy flow, plate tectonics, tsunamis, and the interactions between the ocean and atmosphere. Students examine waves, tides, and currents while deepening their understanding of marine technology, such as ROVs, AUVs, submersibles, and marine engineering. The course also introduces navigation skills, local industry partnerships, and career pathways within the marine sciences.

As part of Marine Studies 2, students have the opportunity to participate in the Mini-Boat Project through a partnership with Educational Passages. This hands-on initiative allows students to build, outfit, and track an unmanned miniature sailboat equipped with GPS, offering a real-world experience in ocean navigation, currents, and international collaboration.

One of the program’s mini-boats, launched in May 2022 with support from Voigt Maritime Inc. in Norwalk, successfully crossed the Atlantic Ocean and landed in Telavåg, Norway on February 10, 2023.

IB Marine Science is a two-year IB course that emphasizes hands-on fieldwork and scientific inquiry. Students explore the origin and structure of the oceans, Earth’s crust dynamics, patterns of water movement, ocean water properties, and marine life, gaining a deep, global understanding of ocean systems.

Marine Engineering and Trades is a two-year course based on the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) curriculum, designed to prepare students for technical careers in the marine industry. Students gain hands-on experience in boat handling, safety, engine theory, and maintenance—including diesel, outboard, and gasoline-fueled inboard engines—as well as marine plumbing, electrical systems, and electronics installation. The program also covers marine materials such as wood, metal, and composites, along with essential shop safety practices and customer service skills.

Local and Global Marine Biology are half-year courses that explore marine life and ecosystems at both regional and international levels. Local Marine Biology is taught in the fall and Global Marine Biology in the spring.

Students gain hands-on experience with aquarium setup and maintenance while studying a wide range of marine organisms, from unicellular life and algae to invertebrates like mollusks and crustaceans, and vertebrates such as fish, reptiles, birds, and marine mammals. The courses also examine various marine ecosystems, providing a comprehensive look at ocean biodiversity.

Future Marine Educators is a course designed for students interested in pursuing careers in teaching, with a focus on marine science education. Students will design and lead educational programs for local preschool, elementary, and middle school students, gaining real-world experience in lesson planning and instruction.

The course is expected to launch in fall 2025.