Florida Gulf Coast University’s Academic Building 9, The Water School (AB9) is predominantly an academic and research facility, focused on marine and environmental sciences endemic to the state of Florida.

The Academic Building 9, also known as The Water School (AB9), at Florida Gulf Coast University, serves as a vital hub for marine and environmental sciences in Florida. It has been designed with the flexibility to adapt to changing academic needs over time. The building features collaborative spaces both inside and out, controlled daylighting, a carefully selected color palette and materials, all aimed at promoting the well-being of its users and visitors.

AB9 includes teaching labs, research labs, a 125-seat tiered auditorium, a 350-seat multi-purpose classroom, general classrooms, open study areas, instructional media, and administrative and faculty offices.