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Applied Sustainable Development Summer Field Intensive
Go beyond the classroom to tackle real-world issues in Western Belize, Central America. Earn 3 U.S. transferable academic credits from Shenandoah University in this 14-day, hands-on, field-intensive global learning program in the summer. You'll collaborate with Belizean experts, guided by a distinguished professor, and connect directly with local communities on innovative projects focused on economic development, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture. Travel from the lush rainforests to the vibrant reef, gaining an unparalleled understanding of international sustainable economic and community development challenges and contributing directly to key UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program provides an opportunity to gain firsthand insights into sustainable living and development challenges, and apply practical knowledge to real-world scenarios through service to a migrant-settled community in western Belize.
Go beyond the classroom to tackle real-world issues in Western Belize, Central America. Earn 3 U.S. transferable academic credits from Shenandoah University in this 14-day, hands-on, field-intensive global learning program in the summer. You'll collaborate with Belizean experts, guided by a distinguished professor, and connect directly with local communities on innovative projects focused on economic development, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture. Travel from the lush rainforests to the vibrant reef, gaining an unparalleled understanding of international sustainable economic and community development challenges and contributing directly to key UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program provides an opportunity to gain firsthand insights into sustainable living and development challenges, and apply practical knowledge to real-world scenarios through service to a migrant-settled community in western Belize.
Program Highlights
Earn 3 U.S. transferable academic credits from Shenandoah University through an intensive 48-contact-hour course while fully immersed in real-world service-learning.
Engage in a focused 13-night/14-day experience providing a deep, hands-on dive into grassroots development and climate solutions, traveling from rainforests to the Belize Barrier Reef.
Engage in high-impact, hands-on projects with local farmers and leaders, applying knowledge to key sectors and contributing directly to key UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Live alongside a rural migrant community, explore Belize's rich heritage through cultural traditions, local farm visits, experiential learning, and intercultural co-curriculum.
Build your professional resume with project experience and intercultural expertise, and gain a global perspective while staying on track for graduation.
Quick Details
- Belize
- Summer
- Agriculture
- Business
- Development Studies
- Economics
- Finance
- Geography
- Health Sciences
- Human Rights Advocacy
- Humanities
- Independent Study
- International Business
- International Policy & Diplomacy
- International Relations
- Liberal Arts
- Management
- Nutrition
- Public Health
- Refugee Studies
- Social Policy
- Social Sciences
- Social Work
- Spanish
- Sustainable Development
- Women's Studies
- American
- Canadian
- British
- German
- Taiwanese
- Swedish
Awards
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Belize
Types and Subjects
- Subjects & Courses
- Agriculture
- Business
- Development Studies
- Economics
- Finance
- Geography
- Health Sciences
- Human Rights Advocacy
- Humanities
- Independent Study
- International Business
- International Policy & Diplomacy
- International Relations
- Liberal Arts
- Management
- Nutrition
- Public Health
- Refugee Studies
- Social Policy
- Social Sciences
- Social Work
- Spanish
- Sustainable Development
- Women's Studies
Availability
Years Offered: 2026, 2027
- Summer
Age Requirement
18-25
Guidelines
- American
- Canadian
- British
- German
- Taiwanese
- Swedish
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
- Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
- On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
- In-Country Orientation
- All Program Activity Costs
- Emergency Support
- Tuition & Fees
- Travel Insurance
- Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Welcome Dinner
- Group Meals
- In-Country Transportation To & From Project
- International SIM Card
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- Academic Advising
- Financial Aid Counseling
- Assistance Booking Travel
- Transcript Fees
- Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
- Academic Credit
Accommodation Options
- Dormitory
- Group living
- Guest House
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Phone/Video Interview
- Online Application
- Transcript
Frequently Asked Questions
What extra does the program offer?
The program offers a structured intercultural learning co-curriculum (ILC) that deepens students' understanding of their interactions with the host community, explores their cultural identity and worldview, and supports re-entry by helping them articulate the program's value.
Where is this field-intensive program based?
The program runs in two regions of Belize: the western and southern, where students will experience local life. A dedicated professor guides students throughout the intensive curriculum.
Is there available financial aid?
Yes, students can apply for financial aid. The program can be funded using a flexible combination of options, ensuring you can secure your seat.
- Financial Aid & Scholarships
- Toucan Grants
- Crowd Funding
- Flexible Payment Plans through Klarna Financing if eligible
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