The Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Friends University are proud to announce a new educational partnership that expands access to immersive coastal and marine science learning opportunities for undergraduate students.

“I’m very excited about our partnership with Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Our students are going to have the ability to learn from experts in the field of marine science, get incredible experiential learning opportunities, and have a truly transformational learning experience,” said Dr. Ana Jurack-Detter.

This partnership provides Friends University students and faculty with direct access to DISL’s coastal campus on Dauphin Island, including its research facilities and hands-on field courses. Undergraduate students will be able to enroll in DISL’s courses, participate in field-based learning, and collaborate with scientists on research addressing critical coastal issues, including habitat conservation, water quality, and resilience to environmental change.

“We are excited to provide an affordable opportunity for landlocked students in Kansas to gain hands-on experience in marine science,” DISL University Programs’ Chair Dr. Lee Smee said.

Faculty from Friends University will also have opportunities to engage in collaborative research initiatives and utilize DISL’s facilities to advance scientific understanding of the Gulf Coast region. Registration for Friends University students is set to begin in Spring 2027.

This partnership further reinforces DISL’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality coastal education while creating new opportunities for students to gain real-world experience and to contribute to research supporting the sustainability of coastal ecosystems.

Currently, DISL partners with 21 Alabama colleges and universities through the Marine Environmental Sciences Consortium (MESC). Established by the Alabama Legislature in 1971, MESC was created to reduce redundancy in marine science education across the state. DISL is not a degree-granting institution but supports students in fulfilling undergraduate and graduate degree requirements through their home campuses.

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual, and professional lives. Friends University offers 60+ undergraduate degree options along with adult online, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. For more information, visit our site at https://www.friends.edu.