Marine Biology Internships

Marine biology internships are an excellent opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in marine science research, resource management, and conservation (by NOAA).

Interns can travel to destinations where their help is needed. 

They can conduct research in biodiverse waters, help protect and learn about marine life, marine organisms, ecosystems and oceans. 

They can also contribute to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #14: Life Below Water

Marine biology internship programs 

Internship programs provide structured learning opportunities designed to provide practical experience.

For example,

Marine conservation internships

Allow individuals to gain hands-on experience in the protection and preservation of marine ecosystems.

Interns in these programs assist in the research, management, and advocacy for marine life and habitats. They also support initiatives to reduce human impact on oceans and coastal environments.

Popular program locations 

Popular locations for marine biology internships are all across the globe.

Costa Rica is known for marine biodiversity and sustainable ocean management. 

Australia is know for coral reef restoration programs.

South Africa is known for shark and whale restoration.

Spain, for example, has programs on dolphin protection, and research centers on Mediterranean marine ecosystems.

Programs by RealStep

RealStep offers a range of marine conservation internships to choose from. Let's start with

Divemaster trainings 

Diving skills are essential to work in marine ecology and conservation.

RealStep diving programs offer the opportunity to achieve a PADI qualification.

Learn more about certification systems here.

• Divemaster training between Seychelles & Thailand

• Divemaster training in Australia

• Working in the field of the environment in the Seychelles

Marine biology internships in Europe

Canary Island

The marine biology course in the Canary Islands allows you to gain university credits while deepening your knowledge of the marine ecosystem in the Canary Islands. The center located in Tenerife offers you an internship as part of your Master’s degree in marine biology. Participate in the protection of whales and dolphins alongside experts and specialists, and gain real field experience by putting your skills and theoretical knowledge to good use!

Testimonial:

• On a personal level, this project has enabled me to feel useful within society and in the protection of endangered species, but also to meet people from all over the world and visit an area rich in biodiversity.
• Both academically and professionally, I was able to acquire new knowledge in the field of marine biology and conservation (a field in which I'd like to work in the future), which may make the difference in my future job applications.

Read the full testimonial.

Marine biology internships in Africa

South Africa

This environmental and sustainable development internship allows you to contribute to the protection of South Africa’s marine species. Supervised by experienced scientists, this project will teach you the different methods of data collection and analysis, working closely with these animals. This is an opportunity to gain university credits by acting positively in sustainable development, through this scientific internship in South Africa!

Mozambique

Our marine conservaton program in Mozambique offers a unique underwater research experience in the heart of an ideal sustainable tourism destination. With our team of qualified scientists and state-of-the-art research center, this environmental project provides privileged access to the region’s wildlife and ecosystem, contributing to sustainable tourism.

Testimonial:

• This internship has given me both personal and professional benefits. On a personal level, I was able to achieve several goals, including obtaining my diving diplomas, improving my diving skills, and discovering the exciting field of marine biology in a relaxed atmosphere.

Read the full testimonial.

Marine biology internships in the summer: planning the internship

• Average length: 8 - 10 weeks

This is the most common length; full-time programs during university breaks

• Even shorter: 2 - 4 weeks 

Focused on specific field studies or expeditions