CIEE Summer Tropical Ecology and Conservation Program in Monteverde, Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

• Monteverde: 
Monteverde

Term: Summer 
Dates: 8 weeks: mid-June-mid-August

Description: The goal of the Tropical Ecology and Conservation summer program is to offer students a comprehensive and complex view of tropical systems through theory, review of empirical patterns, hands-on exposure to an array of tropical ecosystems and conservation, taxonomy of major groups, and direct experimentation. This goal is achieved through science coursework in English on tropical biology that includes extensive travel in the field to various ecosystems within Costa Rica. Students conduct an independent research project in field ecology as well as take a Spanish language class at their level.

Academic Program
The CIEE summer program in Monteverde, established in 1989, was developed to fulfill several goals. The first is to introduce students to all aspects of tropical biology and ecology, such as 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. All biology courses are taught in English.

Academic Culture
The small, rigorous courses with a biological focus 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 the student with a unique, integrated experience involving classwork, field study, lab work, and observation. Enrollment in this program is limited to 28 students.

Highlights:

• Live in Monteverde, an internationally recognized place of research and natural beauty, and home to a world famous cloud forest
  
• Gain research experience by conducting your own independent project
  
• Participate in field trips and excursions to different ecosystems within Costa Rica
  
• Get to know rural Costa Rica through a homestay with a local family

The program begins and ends in San Jose, Costa Rica's capital. Participants are encouraged to take part in the many activities taking place in the Monteverde community.

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
* 1 additional semester of college-level biology, ecology, or environmental science recommended
* Some college-level Spanish recommended

This Program is open to World Wide Participants.

Participants Travel to Costa Rica 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. As we look ahead, we reaffirm our commitment to the principles and values that guide this mission statement.

Year Founded: 1947