The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) offers a number of educational and research opportunities for high-school students.

Summer Governor's School Program

Open to Virginia high school students via the Virginia Department of Education Governor's Schools program. During this 4-week summer residential school, VIMS researchers host up to 6 high-school students with demonstrated interest in and aptitude for marine science. Students are housed at Christopher Newport University.

Summer Aide Program

A limited number of paid positions may be available on the VIMS campus during the summer, depending on faculty need and funding. High school students may apply for these temporary positions. To be considered, students must complete The College of William & Mary on-line application. Researchers or faculty looking for Summer Aides review the on-line applications to find potential candidates. To submit an on-line application, go to the W&M Jobs site and follow the instructions. Note: paper applications are not accepted; in the event that there are no positions or you are not selected, you will not be notified.

Oyster Aquaculture Training Program (OAT)

The Oyster Aquaculture Training program is designed to help meet the growing demand for trained staff for Virginia's oyster aquaculture industry, and to assist VIMS' Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center in its oyster-domestication programs.

Blue Crab Bowl

The Blue Crab Bowl is the Virginia Regional Competition of the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB^®). It showcases some of the Commonweath's most talented high-school students as they display their mastery of oceanic knowledge.  In February of each year, teams from 16 high schools compete in a contest co-hosted by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science and Old Dominion University.  The winning team goes on to represent Virginia at the National finals where they face teams from 24 other regions.

Marine Science Careers

Learn about the diverse opportunities available for a career in marine science; and the classroom, laboratory, and research experiences that will help give your students a leg up.

Volunteering

Become more involved in VIMS activities by becoming a volunteer. Volunteer positions are regularly available in the Library, Visitor's Center, Gift Shop, in laboratories, and in the field. There are also opportunities to lead group tours and assist with public outreach events. Volunteers play a vital role in advancing the research and educational mission of the Institute.