Skip to content
USC Wrigley Institute of Oceanography on Catalina Island

CSU Marine Biology Semester on Catalina Island


Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to have my AAUS Certification in order to attend the semester?

No, you are not required to be an AAUS diver in order to attend the semester. Only snorkeling skills are required to participate in the program. However, if you wish to SCUBA dive at any point during the semester, you must maintain an AAUS Certification.

Am I required to have my MOTC Certification in order to attend the semester?

No, you are not required to have your MOTC Certification in order to attend the semester. However, if you intend on operating a small vessel for your research project, you must be certified.

Am I able to come back to the mainland on the weekends?

You will occasionally be able to come back to the mainland on weekends; however, it will be very difficult to come back every weekend.

Am I able to bring guests over during the semester?

No. The only day guests are typically permitted to visiting during your stay at USC Wrigley is during your final presentations on the second to last day of the semester.

What is there to do during my free time while staying at USC Wrigley?

You can find information on this WMSC Visitor Guide

Fall 2025 Application

Please return in December 2024 for the Fall 2025 CSU Marine Biology Semester Application.

CSU Marine Biology Semester Class Photo 2022

Questions?

Questions can be directed to osi.catalina@gmail.com