CIEE Summer Tropical Marine Ecology and Conservation Program in Bonaire, Southern Caribbean

  Caribbean

Bonaire Island

Term: Summer 
Dates: Session I 2 weeks: late May-mid-June; Session II 2 weeks: mid-June-early July; Sessions I + II 4 weeks: late May-early July

Description: The Tropical Marine Ecology and Conservation summer program offers students the unique international field experience of exploring tropical ecosystems. The field-based program introduces students to the diversity of marine life and environments using Bonaire as a living classroom. Students study the interconnectedness of marine organisms with each other and their environment using field ecology research techniques and scuba diving. Human impacts on the marine environment, including conservation measures and negative effects, are also examined.

Academic Program
The CIEE Tropical Marine Ecology and Conservation summer program in Bonaire offers intensive field courses that integrate lectures, field experience, student group work, and readings. Emphasis is placed on hands-on field observation of ecological processes, both on land and underwater, as well as human-nature interactions and their application to the conservation of natural resources.

Academic Culture
Rigorous courses with a scientific focus are offered for CIEE students only. Classes are small and consist of classroom-based academics combined with extensive experiential components (field study, lab work, and observation) and broad practical field experience in coastal ecology. Professors prepare students in the classroom and accompany them on field trips. Given the number of dives and field trips required for this course, students should expect an intense yet rewarding program.

Highlights:

• Study coral reef ecosystems in one of the world's first protected marine areas and healthiest reefs in the Caribbean region; learn how species interact with each other and their environment through scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking
  
• Study in small groups with highly qualified marine biologists and scientists
  
• Participate in site visits and fieldwork, including day and night boat dives, to monitor coral reefs; partake in excursions to cultural and natural sites, including rock paintings, slave huts, salt pans, mangroves, and flamingo reserves

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: Please check the CIEE website for current program pricing

Experience Required: yes

• Overall GPA 2.75
• 1 semester of college-level biology, ecology, or equivalent required
• 1 additional semester of college-level biology, ecology, or environmental science recommended
• Nationally recognized SCUBA certification, or PADI referral (Professional Association of Diving Instruction)

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Caribbean Independently

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

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Other
• Transcript
• Written Application

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