Experiential Learning

Students are encouraged to perform research or independent study projects with faculty and take advantage of the unique programs available through College of the Environment and Life Sciences.

Undergraduate Research Fellowships

Coastal and Environmental Fellowship

This fellowship offers the opportunity to engage in environmental research, education, or outreach programs that address current environmental or societal problems.

Become a fellow

RI NSF EPSCoR Fellowship

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) offers URI students 10 weeks of intensive real-world training with active, National Science Foundation research projects.

Gain experience

Research Fellowships in Oceanography

The Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURFO) provides 10-week research experience designed primarily for science, math and engineering students.

Ocean Research

Science and Engineering Fellows Program

This programs connects students from underrepresented cultural backgrounds to research opportunities working with faculty mentors, preparing them to enter the job market with the professional skills and training needed to succeed.

gain skills

R.I. Agriculture and Food Systems Fellows Program

This program offers paid work experience for students interested in food system-related careers, working on real-world agricultural and food system-related projects alongside industry professionals who serve as mentors.  

learn more

Travel Field Courses

  • Marine Mammal Behavior (AVS 442) – An exploration of how marine mammals exploit aquatic environments, combining examination of research literature with experiential learning in lab and aquarium facilities locally and abroad. (Roatan, Caribbean, J-term) 
  • Underwater Photography & Film Laboratory (AFS 397) – This is a field-based course that gives students experience in underwater photography and film techniques while snorkeling and/or scuba diving. All levels of underwater enthusiasts are welcome. Students will have hands-on experience with cameras both on the surface and in the water. Students participating in snorkeling activities may work towards the Scuba Diving International (SDI) snorkel certification and students participating in scuba diving activities may qualify for the SDI underwater photography or film scuba certifications, but participation in this course does not guarantee completion of certificates. (Spring semester, spring break, Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences) 
  • Aquatic Food Production in the Philippines (AFS 440) – Interdisciplinary, cross-cultural experience of aquaculture and fisheries in the Philippines through field trips to aquaculture facilities, coral reefs, and historic sites.  (J-term)

Undergraduate Teaching Assistant Opportunities

Students majoring in Animal and Veterinary Science, Aquaculture and Fisheries Science, and Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems are encouraged to participate in our Undergraduate Teaching Assistant (UTA) program. Students that have successfully completed certain lecture and laboratory based courses within our curriculum are eligible to apply to be a UTA for that course in subsequent semesters. 

Semesters Abroad

There are many opportunities for students to spend a semester or year studying abroad or in the National Student Exchange program while earning credits towards their undergraduate degrees. Explore programs »

Regional Opportunities

As a Animal and Veterinary Science, Aquaculture and Fisheries Science, or Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems student, you’ll have access to hands-on learning in URI’s own excellent research facilities, which include Peckham Farm, East Farm, Agronomy Farm, coastal laboratories at the Narragansett Bay Campus, and on the Cap’n Bert, a 54-foot fishing and research vessel for exploration of Narragansett Bay. Many students also choose off-campus internships at nearby sites such as Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Buttonwood Park Zoo and numerous veterinary hospitals, lab animal facilities, animal shelters and local farms as well as the RI Department of Environmental Management.

In addition to identifying internship opportunities in consultation with FAVS faculty, the URI Center for Career and Experiential Education is an excellent resource for students.

Diving Research and Safety Information

Scuba diving is an important part of both academics and undersea research at the University of Rhode Island. The URI Diving Safety Program provides training and support for underwater research and exploration.