Description

The summer Tropical Ecology and Conservation study abroad program in Monteverde, Costa Rica is designed for students with biology-related majors who have completed at least one semester of college-level biology plus one additional semester of college-level biology, ecology or environmental science and who seek intensive, sophisticated tropical field and science course work in Costa Rica from both theoretical and taxonomic perspectives. All courses are taught in English.

Academic Program
Established in 1989, the CIEE summer program in Monteverde was developed to fulfill several goals. The first is to introduce students to all aspects of tropical biology and ecology, including forestry, entomology, and environmental sciences. The second is to allow students to pursue a specific interest in tropical biology and ecology through independent research. Finally, the program gives participants an opportunity to study the language and culture of Costa Rica and enhance their Spanish language skills.

Academic Culture
The small, rigorous courses with a biological focus (taught in English) are offered for CIEE students only and contain extensive experiential components. The required courses combine classroom-based academics with broad practical experience. Professors prepare the students in the classroom and accompany students on field trips.

Given the number of projects and visits required for these courses, students should expect an intense, yet rewarding summer. With its setting in the natural classroom of the forest, the program provides a unique experience that integrates classwork, field study, lab work, and observation.

Highlights

• Camp and hike in some of Costa Rica's most amazing protected areas, including rain forest, dry forest, mangroves, beaches, and more
  
• Live in Monteverde, an internationally recognized area of research and natural beauty, and home to a world famous Cloud Forest
  
• Gain research experience conducting your own independent project
  
• Experience rural Costa Rica through a homestay with a local family
  
• Enjoy cultural activities in the town of Monteverde

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

• Biology (general)
• Environmental Studies
• Intensive Language
• Spanish
• Tropical Biology

Cost in US$:

Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing.

Program Fees Include:

The CIEE fee includes tuition, housing, all meals, transportation to and from the biological station in the cloud forest, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, field trips, national park entry fees, lab and scientific equipment fees, outdoor camping equipment, field house lab access, pre-departure advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which provides insurance and other travel benefits.

Experience Required

yes

• Overall GPA 2.75
• 1 semester of college-level biology
• 1 additional semester of college-level biology, ecology, or environmental science recommended
• Some college-level Spanish recommended

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays
• Other

Participants Travel

Independently

Scholarships are Available

We have several scholarships that students can apply for. Contact CIEE for details.

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application
• Other

CIEE's Mission Statement

Since 1947, the Council on International Educational Exchange, known as CIEE, has been in pursuit of its mission, "to help people gain understanding, acquire knowledge, and develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. Our services to young people studying, working, teaching, and traveling abroad are more important than ever.

Year Founded

1947