Aquatic Science

Built around a partnership with the Shedd Aquarium, the Aquatic Science course puts students inside the work of professional researchers and conservationists – not as observers, but as part of the team.

First Semester — students explore freshwater ecology and human-environment interactions with a focused lens on the Great Lakes and local waterways. You’ll investigate the roles that water, animals, plants and humans play in freshwater ecosystems and examine conservation efforts from a local to a global scale.

Second Semester — expands into marine and island ecosystems, where you’ll engage directly with Shedd Aquarium researchers and their collaborators. Guest speakers working in marine conservation bring the field to life – and the resources of the Shedd’s aquariums, marine collection, expert staff and ongoing research, are all part of the curriculum.

The Shedd Aquarium Internship — students who successfully complete the Aquatic Science course are eligible to apply for the Shedd Aquarium Internship, where you’ll participate in weekly field experiences across a wide range of aquatic science disciplines. The work you do here directly supports active conservation projects on corals, grouper and sharks. It’s one of the most hands-on opportunities available to a high school student in this field.