The Integrative Field Experience (IFE) is the culminating requirement of the Marine Biology Major, and all marine biology majors spend time in the field away from the UW Seattle campus.

Students select from a list of eligible courses which give hands-on experience with changes in the marine environment at a variety of scales (over time and space) and systems (physical and biological). These advanced courses build on the foundational knowledge developed across the three core areas of the major (biodiversity, ecology and ecosystems and organismal processes) and develop skills in fieldwork techniques, data analysis and science communication. 

  • Most eligible courses are offered at the UW’s marine field station Friday Harbor Labs (FHL).
  • Courses are offered at varying times of year with time spent away from campus ranging from a minimum of three weeks to a full academic quarter. 
  • All majors must complete 5-6 credits through a qualifying course. Students completing an eligible 5 credit course must complete a total of 26 credits of marine biology electives instead of 25; additional credits earned through courses larger than 6 credits may qualify as ‘other marine biology elective’.

Apply to take a course at Friday Harbor Labs

IFE Priority Placement Application closed.Next application will open in autumn 2025 for spring 2026 courses

Eligible courses 

How to Apply for Integrative Field Experience Courses 

All Integrative Field Experience courses require a Friday Harbor Labs application. Marine Biology majors can fill a second application to qualify for priority admission in eligible courses, but students must meet additional eligibility criteria listed below. Marine Biology majors can apply to FHL without priority status, and courses can complete marine biology major requirements (including the integrative field experience) regardless.

 

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Engaging with a field course involves additional financial costs (in the form of transportation, room and board fees) and opportunity costs (time away from a job or other commitments). There are additional sources of funding and scholarships which can help you enroll in the Integrative Field Experience that matches your academic and professional goals. Costs vary depending on the course and time spent in the field. Please see the list of eligible courses below for course and program costs.

 

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