BIMS Immersion Program

The Ultimate Marine Science
Immersion Experience

The BIMS Immersion Program is a week-long marine science immersion experience designed to provide BIMS members with hands-on learning, research, restoration, and conservation activities in various ocean science disciplines. The overarching goal of the program is to recruit and retain Black scientists and leaders in the field.

"I wholeheartedly enjoyed every part of BIP week. I appreciated the sincerity and genuine passion from all of the BIMS and TNC staff. I would do it all over again if I could!"

– Yaira, BIP St. Croix

Beneath the Surface: BIP Snapshot

Applicants Annually

PADI SCUBA Certifications Awarded

Invested in SCUBA Certifications & Training

Dive into BIP Week: Program Overview

BIP Week is tailored to provide experiential learning and open water diver certification to BIMS Premiere members passionate about marine sciences. We aim to remove socioeconomic barriers, offering all-inclusive access to enriching educational experiences. The program includes:

SCUBA Certification

Central to BIP Week, the program offers PADI open water certification, a cornerstone for marine research, ensuring participants are equipped with essential diving skills.

"Being able to scuba dive was such a blessing and having that opportunity to see coral fishes and other Marine organisms up close was breathtaking! The experience was really one for the books, such an amazing experience."

– Jabari,
BIP Bahamas

Hands-on Learning

Participants are immersed in active marine science practices, from research and restoration to conservation, experiencing the ocean's wonders first-hand.

"I’m extremely grateful for the people that were invited to present each day, because it not only showed me how vast the marine science field is, but that I can excel as a black marine scientist!"

– Charissa,
BIP Bahamas

Inclusive Access

Recognizing the financial hurdles often faced, BIP Week covers all expenses, including travel and accommodations, affirming our commitment to accessible and equitable education.

"Joining BIMS is my first opportunity to participate in official Marine Biology! I was able to be surrounded by divers who looked like me."

– Jasmine,
BIP St. Croix

Conservation Efforts

Through activities like kayak cleanups and coral restoration, students contribute directly to marine conservation efforts, applying their learning to real-world challenges.

"“I love the ocean and marine life and I always felt the need to preserve and protect marine resources because I reside in an area in which we are blessed to have a vast majority of marine resources."

– Tafari,
BIP Bahamas

Mentorship & Guidance

Black instructors and scientists mentor participants, providing insights and guidance, fostering a nurturing learning atmosphere that champions diversity.

"It was very inspiring and comforting to meet Caribbean and specifically Bahamian scientists and engineers. The evening presentations were informative and engaging."The entire week was amazing."

– Benjamin,
BIP Bahamas

Join BIP Week!

Applications are closed

Support BIP!

Your contributions play a crucial role in sustaining and expanding BIP Week. With your support, we can continue to offer these unique experiences to more BIMS members.

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