NOTICE: The Patton Marine Science Education Center is temporarily closed as we rebuild from Hurricane Harvey.

Thank you for your interest in booking a program or field trip with UTMSI.   Please complete the Visiting Group Request Form to ensure we have your request and contact information.  We will contact you when we begin the registration process.  Questions? Contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Welcome to the University of Texas Marine Science Institute!

The Institute established the first marine science public education program in Texas more than 30 years ago, and strengthening science education remains one of the most important facets of our work.

The Institute's public education program is managed by its Mission-Aransas Reserve program. 

Hundreds of teachers participate in our workshops, and we host field trips for thousands of students and their teachers yearly. The Institute provides educational Road Scholar programs for hundreds of participants each year.

Tens of thousands of visitors regularly enjoy our Marine Science Education Center and Wetlands Education Center located at 855 E. Cotter Avenue, Port Aransas Texas 78373.

Use the link on the left column to get more information on our programs. 

The Marine Science Institute is committed to providing a safe environment for our staff and visitors. All guests are required to follow these rules:

• Masks are optional. You are more than welcome to continue wearing a mask if that is your preference. Wearing a mask is highly recommended for individuals who are not fully vaccinated or have weakened immune systems.
• Maintain 6 feet of distance from others when possible. Maintaining distance is highly recommended for individuals who are not fully vaccinated or have weakened immune systems.
• Wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer often.
• If you are sick, please stay home.

Here’s what we’re doing:

• Wearing masks per our personal preferences
• Sanitizing and washing our hands regularly
• Maintaining 6 feet of distance from others
• Keeping common areas (e.g., restrooms) sanitized and clean
• Sanitizing and washing tools and other commonly used equipment
• Monitoring our health and staying home if not feeling well
• Working with local and university health authorities to utilize recommended practices

While we can take reasonable steps to keep our visitors healthy, please understand that the Marine Science Institute cannot guarantee your safety from COVID-19.

Thank you for helping everyone stay healthy!