Semester@Skidaway Field Study Program

A collage shows Semester at Skidaway students conducting marine and environmental fieldwork: sorting fish on a boat, surveying by water, walking on a trail, observing wildlife, and working in a lab with test tubes and equipment.
The Semester at Skidaway Field Study program places students on the Georgia coast for a unique learning experience. Participants learn methods and concepts from leaders in marine science research and visit all the ecosystems and environments which make the region special. Students 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 includes 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, bev.vantine@uga.edu, for more information.

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

Read Q&A profiles featuring Semester at Skidaway alumni 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 Institute’s 700-acre campus, located along the scenic Skidaway River. Recently renovated housing units feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen areas, and a variety of other amenities. Housing costs are included in the program fee; however, participants are responsible for purchasing their own food.

Skidaway Institute is located just a short drive from historic downtown Savannah, where students can enjoy a vibrant mix of acclaimed restaurants, museums, cultural attractions, and historic landmarks. The beautiful beaches of Tybee Island are also within easy reach, approximately 45 minutes from campus.

Collage showing a single-story cabin with a porch, surrounded by trees, and interior views of a kitchen, dining area, living room with couches, and a bedroom with two beds—perfect for Semester at Skidaway students.
One of several housing units – The Commons, which includes four bedrooms, a kitchen, living area, and a meeting room.

Program Details

Fall 2026 Program: August 14 to December 9
Cost: $3100 (subject to change) 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, bev.vantine@uga.edu.

University of Georgia logo featuring an arch with 1785 below it, and the text University of Georgia Parents Leadership Council and Semester at Skidaway beside the logo.

Funding has been provided by the UGA Parents Leadership Council.