Education

There's no age limit to learning. We have the Kids Corner all the way up to extended education classes for adults and everything inbetween!

Introduction to Underwater Photography
Learn how to take stunning underwater pictures

Introduction to Underwater Photography

Are you a diver, snorkeler, or someone interested in capturing the images of the underwater world? Learn the necessary techniques to take underwater photos or improve your current skills. Emphasis will be on lighting, composition, camera care, and answering your many questions. Explore different camera systems and how to choose the right one to meet your expectations and price range. We’ll focus on digital photography, but most of the methods translate equally to film. Save $7 if you register for both Underwater Photography courses together.

  • Wed., July 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • University Center Rm. 207
  • Instructor: Chris Doyal
  • Cost: $29 Code: 10144
  • Call 231-995-1700 to sign up or stop by EES Office at the University Center on Cass Street in Traverse City.

Underwater PhotographyPractical Experience

Are you ready to take your current skills to the next level? Meet at Elmwood Township Park for a morning of diving and photography. Review the basics and then see how classroom knowledge translates to the underwater world. Try your hand at taking photos and once back on the surface, download them to a computer for instant feedback and critique. There will be plenty of photographic opportunities for snorkelers and certified divers. Bring your own underwater camera and dive gear. A few digital cameras will be available for rent on a first come, first serve basis. Introduction to Underwater Photography or past underwater photo experience is required. Save $7 if you register for both Underwater Photography courses together.

  • Sat., July 19, 9 a.m.-noon
  • Meet at Elmwood Township Park (ask for directions when registering)
  • Instructor: Chris Doyal
  • Cost: $45 Code: 10146
  • Call 231-995-1700 to sign up or stop by EES Office at the University Center on Cass Street in Traverse City.
What's in The Bay Anyway?
What's in the Bay Anyway?

Have you ever sat on a beach and wondered what lies beneath the water? Shipwrecks, logs, snomobiles, bikes and who knows what else, right? Well, here's your chance to find out!

What’s in the Bay Anyway?

Underwater Archeology in Grand Traverse Bay


If you enjoy regional history, the romance of shipwrecks,
or the work of scientists who bring maritime history to
life, this class is for you. Become familiar with theory,
method, technologies, and practice in underwater archeology. 
Click here to learn more!

Call 231-995-1700 to sign up or stop by EES Office at the University Center on Cass Street in Traverse City.

Introduction to Archeological Field Survey


Ever wonder what archeologists really do? It’s not all
about digging up things. Click here for more information!

Call 231-995-1700 to sign up or stop by EES Office at the University Center on Cass Street in Traverse City.

NAS - Underwater Archaeology Classes at NMC

Nautical Archaeology I & II

This is the entry-level course to the Nautical Archaeology Society Training Program and is aimed at introducing nautical archaeology to divers and non-divers, and promoting their interest in the subject.

Want to learn more about becoming an underwater archaeologist? It's easy! Go to this link to learn more. If you want to learn online, go to the Links section on this page (to the left).

What is NAS?

What is NAS exactly?

There are many certification agencies that help promote good, sound archaeological programs. All programs need a strong basis from which to start from - strong in ethics, management and education. The GTBUP, in cooperation with Northwestern Michigan College, chose Nautical Archaeology Society [NAS] as their platform for education in Michigan. We know you'll enjoy attending these classes and the knowledge gained.

Kid's Corner

Entertaining games you can safely play for hours. Check out the links to the left and enjoy!

Ongoing Field Studies

Looking for some work in the field?

Students who have enrolled in Dr. Holley's Underwater Archaeology have an opportunity to work out in the field - right on Grand Traverse Bay. To sign up for the next survey trip, contact Dr. Holley at mholley@nmc.edu .

Check out the field work performed in the summer of 2007!

Please give if you can.

Information that relates to and promotes education of the Grand Traverse Bay Underwater Preserve can only be done through successful grants and funding. Sometimes these are very hard to recieve and we ask you, the public, for help. If you believe the educational efforts are worth it, we would gladly accept your generous donation!