FW 568: Human Dimensions of Marine Mammal Conservation

Image
Sea lions on a dock
Level
Graduate (GR)
Term
Summer
Topic
Marine Mammals and Megafauna
Policy and Social Sciences
Engagement Length
Three Weeks
Modality
In-person

Course Overview

Marine mammals are deeply entwined with humans in both positive and problematic ways. There is a growing need for experts who can devise and promote marine mammal conservation approaches that embrace humans as a critical part of marine ecosystems. In this course, students will develop essential skills to address these real-world challenges head on. Within the holistic framework of systems thinking, students will learn and practice problem-solving strategies that include stakeholders from different disciplines. The results are integrated approaches to solving problems associated with human–wildlife conflict, using marine mammals as case studies. This is a core course within the Marine Mammal Graduate Certificate.

Visit the Schedule of Classes for more information and to register.

Admissions Information

Interested in the Marine Mammal Graduate Certificate? Contact [email protected] for more information.

  • Current OSU students: Talk to your academic advisor about how this course can fit into your program of study and visit the Schedule of Classes for additional registration details.
  • New or visiting students: Please visit the OSU Summer Session Admissions and Registration website to get started.

Additional Information

Class Schedule

  • Summer 2026 - Summer Session 5 (3 Weeks) 
  • August 17 - September 4, 2026 
  • Meets Mon/Wed/Fri from 12:30pm - 4:50pm at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, OR.

Registration Information 

  • Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree/ Credential level students.
  • Interested undergraduate students should reach out to the instructor and their advisor for more information.

Scholarships Available - Application Open June 1, 2026

Thanks to a generous donor, the Marine Mammal Institute is providing ten, $1,000 Vilma Taylor Ballance Scholarships to students who enroll in and complete the course Human Dimensions of Marine Mammal Conservation (FW 568) during Summer Session 5, August 17-September 4, 2026

Details:

  • Opens June 1, 2026 and closes July 10, 2026.
  • Eligibility: Students who enroll in and complete the course, while funds last.
  • Application: To apply log into ScholarDollars and search, “Vilma Taylor Ballance" 
  • Questions? Email Minda Stiles, MMI's Administrative Manager & Communications Coordinator at [email protected].  

Housing

Students interested in residing at Hatfield should complete a housing application by priority deadlines listed on the housing website.