Marine Biology

Florence | Elba

Summer 2026 | May 11 – June 11

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Join us this summer

Environmental Marine Biology & Sustainability is a three-week full-immersion course (Monday-Sunday) taught entirely in English, comprising lecture and fieldwork components that explore the influence of human activity on marine ecosystems and the physiology, behavior, and ecology of Mediterranean Sea organisms. One advantage of studying Marine Biology in Italy during the summer is the opportunity to visit key ecosystems, research facilities, and special interest areas in the Mediterranean Sea.

Biodiversity, Behavioral Ecology & Environmental Sustainability: a case study in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park

This course focuses on how animal/plant behavioral ecology may be used to: 

  • understand the response of species to a changing environment
  • improve current practices of farming and harvesting techniques for sustainable management of natural resources
  • inform the design and management of protected areas and the conservation of key species that hold specific ecological niches to maximize the preservation of biodiversity

The aim of the field-work components is:

  • to introduce students to practical methods used in environmental science
  • to better convey the concepts covered in the lecture portion of the course by using more empirical formats.

Course Goals:

  • Identify and understand the primary challenges caused by human activities facing marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean Sea and evaluate possible solutions and potential impacts on the people living in the region
  • Establish a solid knowledge of the basic scientific techniques used to perform scientific work in the direct pursuit of scientific research and sustainable environmental resource management practices 
  • Use critical thinking, empirical observation, and analytical skills when addressing environmental and conservation issues to understand organisms’ adaptations to their changing environments
  • Identify and understand the real challenges of sustainability science and to be able to apply this understanding to many different fields 

Course Philosophy

The course philosophy is based on the methodology of experiential learning: once engaged in hands-on activities, students are better able to connect theories and knowledge learned in the classroom to real-world situations. Students will visit key ecosystems, research facilities, and special interest areas.

A scientific snorkeling curriculum will be integrated throughout the course, combining theory in the classroom setting and snorkeling sessions with fieldwork and research activity in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park.

Prerequisites

  • One semester of basic concepts in biology, ecology, and zoology.
  • Students must complete an official swimming test listed below (certificates are to be completed and uploaded by April 15th, 2026).
  • CPR and First Aid: – mandatory training and certificate. Please note all CPR/First Aid courses must be issued in person and must have a practical component. Online certifications are not accepted in Italy (certificates to be completed and uploaded by April 15th, 2026). 
  • Documentation to be submitted by April 1st, 2026:
    • Certification of the swim test.
    • Certification of CPR and First Aid training.
    • Medical statement signed by a physician.
    • Liability waiver form provided by ISI Florence.

Swimming Test

  • Jump or dive into the deep end of the pool.
  • Swim underwater for a distance of 15 feet.
  • Demonstrate rhythmic breathing (freestyle or breaststroke) continuously for four lengths of the pool (or at least 100 yards).
  • Tread water for two minutes.
  • Survival float face down (while taking breaths) for one minute.
  • Each skill needs to be performed for the entire time/distance without stopping.
  • Swim 200 yards without swim aids (or 300 yards with aids such as fins, mask, and snorkel).
  • Float without the assistance of a flotation device for 15 minutes.

Course Dates 2026

May 10, SundayDeparture from Home Country
May 11, MondayArrival in Florence & check-in
May 12, TuesdayOrientation & Classes begin
May 17, SundayDeparture for Elba Island
May 18 – June 8, Monday – MondayImmersive experience – Elba Island
June 8, MondayBack to Florence & wrap-up
June 11, ThursdayCheck out and end of Program

Ready to dive into Marine Biology
with ISI Florence?

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