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Marine Education Center

About Us

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As the education and outreach arm of The University of Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, the MEC works to inform visitors and the public about our coastal ecosystems, current research, and conservation efforts in an effort to produce well informed and knowledgeable stewards of the marine environment.

The MEC encompasses 28,000 square feet in six major structures, all connected by outdoor walkways, trails, and the Bayhead Suspension Bridge.

Education yesterday, today and tomorrow

katrinaIn 2005, Hurricane Katrina destroyed the former home of the MEC, the J. L. Scott Marine Education Center and Aquarium in Biloxi. Rebuilding presented a unique opportunity to recast the experience the MEC team wanted participants to have. The focus was placed on maximizing the environment as the primary teaching tool.
reimaginedAward-winning architecture frames the reimagined facility against a beautiful coastal backdrop where participants have fun, immersive STEM-focused experiences. The 100-acre site features trails that guide visitors through different coastal habitats, outdoor and floating classrooms, and a pedestrian suspension bridge. The buildings at the MEC are tucked into the environment and house public exhibits, laboratories, and beautiful meeting spaces.
educationThe real beauty of the MEC is how well it is designed to perform its primary function: educating students and the public about Mississippi’s valuable and productive marine and coastal resources. Thousands of students, visitors and coastal residents visit the MEC to learn science-based information to help them be active stewards of the marine environment.

Contact Us

Marine Education Center
101 Sweet Bay Drive
Ocean Springs, MS 39564

GCRL - Cedar Point

Campus Map

Email
marine.educationFREEMississippi

Phone
228.818.8095