Description

The School for Field Studies (SFS) Costa Rica offers two four-credit courses that may be taken individually or back to back to provide a thorough introduction to the sustainability of tropical ecosystems, as well as field research techniques for addressing conservation questions.

In Session I: Sustaining Tropical Ecosystems: Biodiversity, Conservation, and Development, students will explore and address key aspects of sustainable development strategies in Costa Rica and the most pressing challenges at the intersection between conservation and economic development.

In Session II: Applied Research Techniques and Strategies Toward Sustainability in Costa Rica, Students learn about the ecological, resource management, and socioeconomic factors impacting protected areas and surrounding regions in Costa Rica.

Students participating in both sessions are eligible for a USD400 discount.

Highlights

Session I: Sustaining Tropical Ecosystems: Biodiversity, Conservation, and Development

Students will explore and address key aspects of sustainable development strategies in Costa Rica and the most pressing challenges at the intersection between conservation and economic development. Understanding key historical and current aspects of sustainable development strategies in Costa Rica, coupled with knowledge of tropical ecosystem function and connectivity, will allow students to understand the impacts of development on the environment and on society. Field exercises and lectures introduce students to models of economic development and biodiversity conservation in and around Costa Rica's protected areas and provide a practical introduction to research design and methods for achieving conservation goals.

Session II: Applied Research Techniques and Strategies Toward Sustainability in Costa Rica

Students learn about the ecological, resource management, and socioeconomic factors impacting protected areas and surrounding regions in Costa Rica. The focus is on developing relevant research questions that address these local issues related to sustainability. Students will be directly involved in designing and conducting field research on a topic of immediate relevance to local clients and proposing alternative approaches toward sustainable development in an effort to help address challenges to conservation goals.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

Inquire for more info

Program Fees Include:

Cost includes all tuition, room, and board

Experience Required

yes

College Undergraduates: No academic prerequisite; High School Students: 16 years of age, good academic standing, completion of at least junior year of high school.

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory

Participants Travel

in Groups

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 4-6

Scholarships are Available

SFS scholarships; Low and 0% interest loans

Typically The Application Process Time is

a few weeks

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

The School for Field Studies's Mission Statement

SFS creates transformative study abroad experiences through field-based learning and research. Our educational programs explore the human and ecological dimensions of the complex environmental problems faced by our local partners, contributing to sustainable solutions in the places where we live and work. The SFS community is part of a growing network of individuals and institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

Year Founded

1980