ProBelize Study Abroad

  Belize

Rural Areas

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: inquire for dates

Description: Experience life in Belize, witness its bio-diversity and geographical beauty, study its tourism and visit its ancient Mangyan sites and other attractions, enjoy a balance of classroom and field instruction, and volunteer in the local community...this is your class schedule.

ProBelizes semester abroad provides a unique blend of service projects, field research, academic courses homestay living, and cultural activities. You will participate in community-driven, hands-on development projects like management and maintenance of a local national park, researching, developing, and delivering environmental education curriculum, or tutoring students in reading, math, or the arts.

Programs are highly supported by an onsite staff team and welcoming community partners. ProWorld, founded in 1998, is a true leader in the fields of study abroad and international development.

Your program includes: meaningful volunteer projects, academic classes, home stay family living, weekly adventures and 12 semester credits. Apply early to secure your position!

The Semester in Belize courses provide a balance of classroom and field instruction. Examples of field classes include:
* Explore the relationships of humans and the biologically rich ecosystem of the Central American tropics while visiting sites such as the Five Blues Lake
* Study tourism and society while visiting ancient Mayan sites and other attractions
* Field trip to Belize City to acquaint students with important historical sites and monuments in the old capital and tourist museum
* Visit the national archives for research on Belizean history

Courses and Credits
Galen University accredits the program and provides transcripts upon successful completion. Galen University has an agreement with the University of Indiana to ensure credits transfer to US schools. ProBelize offers the following curriculum:

* Marine Ecology - 3 credits
* Environmental Conservation and Development
* Belizean History
* Caribbean Literature
* Introduction to Sociology
* Intermediate Spanish

Prerequisites:
* Completion of one year of university studies
* Good academic standing at your home university
* A positive attitude and a will to help
* Semester Credits: 15
* Total class hours: 210
* Project hours: 56
* Average class hours per credit: 14
* Accreditation: Galen University
* Language of Instruction: English

Please meet with your study abroad advisor prior to the program to ensure credits transfer appropriately.

Highlights: Real projects...real experience! ProWorld's semester abroad provides a unique blend of service projects, field research, academic courses, and cultural activities. Community development projects, field work, and adventure activities complement classes, creating an integrated program understanding and a rewarding study abroad experience.

You will study with local and international professors to better understand the history and bio-diversity of Belize, then explore the country with the chance to visit local Maya ruins, immerse yourself in the amazing ecological mix, and a possible trip to the second largest barrier reef in the world! You will be engaged in the culture by living with a caring and carefully selected local family.

Projects are chosen by site directors based on community need and executed in a manner consistent with community empowerment and ownership. Past ProBelize projects include:
* Reforestation, irrigation, and trail maintenance in the Elijo Panti National Park
* Construction of a community park in Hopkins Village
* Construction of a new radiological center in collaboration with the local hospital
* Renovation of public libraries in Cayo and Hopkins village

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: Semester cost: USD 8,950 / GBP 5,095 / EUR 7,250

- Intensive group orientation
- 15 Academic Credits, Tuition Fees, Books, & Transcripts from Galen
- Airport pick up and drop off at program site
- All onsite program related transportation
- Full room and board with a local family
- Spanish and academic courses
- Group and individual development projects with funding and staff support
- Visits to archeological sites, weekend adventures, and cultural activities
- Daily staff and professor support

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

ProWorld Service Corps's Mission Statement: The mission of ProWorld is to promote social and economic development, empower communities, and cultivate educated compassionate global citizens. ProWorld offers 2-26 week internship, volunteer, and study abroad programs in Peru, Mexico, Belize, India, Thailand, Brazil and Ghana. All programs are based on hands-on, community-driven development projects. We believe that within every project decision and every community interaction there exists the opportunity for ProWorld staff and volunteers to strengthen our mission and practice our core values: commitment, integrity, vision, sustainability, compassion, and success.

Year Founded: 1998