Distinguishing FGCU as a Leader in Water
Located in the midst of Florida's complex freshwater and saltwater systems, The Water School is uniquely positioned to explore water-based issues.
The health of waterways impacts surrounding ecosystems, regional and state economies and people who rely on water for life and leisure. By taking a leadership role in this vital arena, FGCU acts as a catalyst for change in our community and throughout the world.
Study water, the environment and sustainability at FGCU
Want to be an agent of change in the world as the global community faces challenges like energy crises, water shortages and climate change?
A comprehensive center for learning and research
The Water School uses a holistic approach that focuses on the environmental sciences but also draws in the social sciences, health sciences, business and engineering. It was designed to:
- Feature state-of-the-art research and learning facilities where students receive the professional preparation they need to tackle real-world problems.
- Bring together all water-focused faculty from the marine and ecological sciences, biology, engineering and business fields.
- Integrate our off-campus facilities that provide access to the Gulf of Mexico, estuaries, rivers and the Everglades.
- Draw in local, national and international partners and open the doors to new partnerships.
- Conduct outreach and education programs in our local communities so that we help create a more water-literate society.
- Empower FGCU to claim its rightful place as a leading, independent source of environmental and scientific knowledge.
- Take the lessons we learn here and apply them throughout the state, nation and world.

Supporting SolutionsGrowing Our Impact Community Partnerships SUPPORT FGCU
Red Tide Research
Blue-Green Algae Research
Along with The Water School, FGCU is home to four research centers and institutes.
Each center and institute is dedicated to expanding undergraduate and graduate students' educational hands-on research and experiences.
A Legacy of Growth - FGCU Timeline
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2010-18
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2000-09
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1997-99
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After 21 years now, we’ve reached a level of maturity in terms of our curricular programs, our research capacity, our people. It’s really about making our communities better, making our communities healthier, making our communities stronger, making our communities more prosperous.
— Greg Tolley, Ph.D.,
Professor of Marine Science, Chair, Department of Marine and Ecological Sciences