Education Programs

We offer a variety of on site STEM programs that are linked to Next Generation Science Standards and Ocean Literacy Frameworks. Choose the program that best fits your learners for their inspiring marine science investigation at the MaST Center Aquarium. If you cannot make it to the MaST Center Aquarium for an on-site program, bring the MaST to you.

Plankton Exploration (1.5 hours)

How do animals spread around Puget Sound? Why is the water so cloudy in the summer? What do barnacles eat? These are just a few of the questions students puzzle over as they use microscopes and plankton tows to look at what lives and grows in our Puget Sound water. Plan on 1.5 hours for this immersive experience.

Invertebrate Investigation (1.5 hours)

In this 1.5 hour hands-on investigation, learners take on the role of aquarium detectives to explore the diversity of our local Puget Sound marine life. Students learn where aquarium animals come from, how to interact with live sea creatures, and what the animals need to survive. Students sort a variety of local invertebrates based on their own observations of the animals’ characteristics and then pose a scientific question that will be investigated in the MaST Center Aquarium.

Marine Mammal CSI (1.5 hours)

Learners become wildlife detectives in this 1.5 hour series of hands-on investigations. Analyzing necropsy reports, articulating skeletons, and finding patterns in field data are just a few of the skills students practice as they explore the issues facing our local Puget Sound marine mammals.

Maritime Deep Dive (3 hours)

Middle and high school learners become underwater engineers in this 3 hour program about ocean technology. Students will learn about the history of deep sea exploration and the technology we use to explore this foreign place. Working in groups students will design, test, and redesign an underwater drone, called a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), to complete a secret mission! This class is only available when the tide is between a +5 and +8, please reach out for availability of this class.

Low Tide Trek* (offered April – September)

Low tide in Puget Sound offers a rare glimpse at extraordinary marine life. From habitat like eel grass and rockweed to invertebrates like hermit crabs and snail eggs, we never know what we’ll find but it’s guaranteed to be an exciting, outdoor scavenger hunt. Come prepared for an hour of uneven walking, exposure to the elements and a wrap-up in the MaST Center aquarium.

NOTE: This program is only available when the tide is below -1. Please check tide predictions before booking the program.

Bring the MaST to you

Can’t make it down to us for a field trip? Want to invite us to your event or career fair? Contact our Community Engagement Coordinator – Aeriel Wauhob to request a visit from the MaST Education Staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are classes offered?

We offer programs Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Fridays. To ensure quality programs, scheduling must be completed two or more weeks before the actual program date.

How long are classes?

This changes based on the education program chosen. Please refer to the specific program above for typical module lengths.

Can we bring lunches to the MaST Center Aquarium?

Students may eat at Redondo beach park directly across from the MaST Center Aquarium before or after their scheduled program. We are happy to store lunches during class, but the classroom is a no-food zone.

What should we wear?

All programs involve some exposure to the elements, so come prepared for the weather. Closed-toed shoes that can get wet and dirty are most appropriate. Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses are recommended on sunny days.

How much does it cost?

Due to COVID-19 impacts, the MaST Center has waived program fees for 2022. 

Program fees are broken down below. Please note that we can accommodate a maximum group size of 30. These headcounts do not include chaperones, only actively participating students. However, we must cap the total number of guests (students, teachers, chaperones, etc.) at 35 to mind fire code. You can bring cash or a check on the day of, or you can wait to be billed by mail after the visit.

• 5-15 students: $30.00
• 16-25 students $40.00
• 26-30 students $50.00

Any other questions?

If you have additional questions, please contact our Community Engagement Coordinator – Aeriel Wauhob.