Description

This is an amazing program, with many of the top faculty from UGA's School of Ecology teaching. The program is geared toward being out in the field and learning by hands-on experience. Students design their own field research projects, collect and analyze data, and present findings in a final symposium. Field excursions will include visits to multiple national parks and protected areas, including 10 days at Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve, where only 300 people are permitted to enter the Reserve each year. Cabo Blanco is literally on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Exploring tidepools and studying tidal ecosystems, as well as the tropical dry forest, will be included in course activities.

Highlights

This interdisciplinary tropical field course involves study of tropical environments, their natural history, and their people. The approach is hands-on, with an emphasis on developing skills of observation, analysis, and critical thinking, and learning to apply those skills in carrying out original research in the field. Students design their own field research projects, collect and analyze data, and present findings in a final symposium. Field excursions include wilderness backpacking trips to explore remote areas as well as visits to pristine national parks and protected areas in tropical rain forest, cloud forest, dry forest, and a variety of tropical marine habitats along the Pacific Coast. Cultural immersion involves homestays with local families, interaction with neighbors, and participation in service activities.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

• Anthropology
• Biology (general)
• Ecology
• Horticulture / Floriculture
• Marine Science
• Statistics

Cost in US$:

USD 9,000

Program Fees Include:

The program cost is approximately USD 9000. The cost of the program covers lodging and three meals per day at UGA's Costa Rica campus, study abroad insurance, and hotels, meals, entry fees, and transportation on program excursions. Additional costs include personal items and airfare. Airfare costs generally vary from USD 550 - USD 850.

***Note: Out-of-state students pay in-state tuition. The Hope scholarship applies.

Non-UGA Student Costs and Transient Application
An additional application and USD 50 processing fee is required for non-UGA students to enroll. Contact the UGA Costa Rica Office to confirm when you have started the application process.

Non-UGA students will be charged USD 250, in addition to their tuition, for their non-UGA student accounts through the UGA Bursar's office.

Experience Required

no

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Scholarships are Available

please contact UGA Costa Rica for more information on scholarships and financial aid.

Application Process Involves

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

30-60 days

University of Georgia - Costa Rica's Mission Statement

Our Mission is to provide excellence in academic programs and research opportunities while serving as the best equipped social, cultural, environmental and international facility of the University of Georgia. Our Vision is to work under the principles of environmental, cultural, social and economic stability, as well as to serve as an example of sustainability to the academic and non-academic communities of Costa Rica, Latin America and the World.

Year Founded

1785