Marine Investigators

Out-of-School Programs Out-of-School Programs

Marine Investigators gives young scientists in grades 4–6 hands-on experience investigating real marine and coastal science problems. Participants will use technology, scientific tools and real data to explore questions and find solutions. Sessions meet one Saturday evening each month at the UNCW Center for Marine Science. Pizza dinner included!

Details

Ages: 4th - 6th grade
When: One Saturday evening each month
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: UNCW Center for Marine Science
Cost: $50 per student (includes pizza)

Fall 2026

Hurricane Hunters

October 10, 2026

Become a storm scientist and investigate Hurricane Florence using real scientific data! Participants will explore how scientists use environmental sensors to monitor dangerous storms, then use Micro to code and build their own sensors measuring conditions such as wind, flooding, pressure and rainfall. Working as a team, participants will connect their instruments into a wireless Hurricane Monitoring Network and use incoming data to track a simulated storm and make evidence-based decisions. No previous coding experience required.

Wildlife Tracker

November 21, 2026

Become a wildlife scientist and investigate how researchers track marine animals they can’t see! Explore how scientists use sound, signals and tracking technology to follow animals underwater and across the ocean, then put those tools to the test as you locate hidden animals and uncover their movements. Use real tracking data and design your own research tag to discover where marine animals go and what they do when no one is watching.

Registration Closes and Refund Policy

Last Minute Registrations

Registration for Out-of-School Programs closes the Tuesday before each program date. We cannot accommodate last minute additions to Out-of-School Programs, as materials and content are prepped in advance based on registration numbers.

Cancellations and Refunds

We are unable to provide refunds in any circumstance for Out-of-School Programs. Again, this is due to advance planning and preparations. We apologize for any inconvenience.