Coral Reef Ecology Program

  Caribbean

Bonaire Island

Term: Fall, Spring, Summer 
Dates: Spring, Fall and Summer

Description: CIEE Research Station Bonaire provides a world-class learning experience in marine ecology and conservation. Our program is designed to prepare students for graduate programs in marine science, conservation or environmental science. Student participants register for: Coral Reef Ecology, Fundamentals of Scientific Diving, Cultural and Environmental History of Bonaire, Tropical Conservation Biology and Independent Study in Marine Ecology/Biology. In addition to a full program of study, this program provides dive training that prepares students for AAUS certification with the American Academy of Underwater Sciences at their home universities.

CIEE Research Station Bonaire offers semester and summer courses for American university students and also hosts visiting scientists and faculty-led student groups. Bonaire is located off the coast of Venezuela in the southern Caribbean and is surrounded by clear, calm waters. Its home to some of the Caribbeans healthiest coral reefs and is world famous for its Bonaire National Marine Park. CIEE Research Station Bonaire has close ties to the marine park and other local conservation groups, which allows students to work closely with conservation professionals.

Highlights: Program Snapshot

* Focus on coral reefs, mangrove, and sea grass ecosystems with an emphasis on ecology and marine life.
* Innovative classroom-based and field-intensive academic program that includes diving and snorkeling many of the dive sites surrounding Bonaire, as well as excursions to sites of cultural importance (including kayaking, bird watching, and visiting caves).
* Study and dive with local experts in a small group setting on day and night dives.
* Gain extensive research experience conducting, presenting, and publishing an independent research project.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: 15000

Experience Required: yes

Students must be enrolled in a 4 year college or university program.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Caribbean Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of <15

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

CIEE Research Station Bonaire's Mission Statement: Our mission is to provide outstanding educational opportunities to students in Tropical Marine Ecology and Conservation. We strive to provide interdisciplinary marine research opportunities for CIEE students as well as visiting scientists and their students from around the world. Collaboration with ongoing local research and conservation efforts is basic to our mission as is our commitment to provide scientific data, analysis and support to Bonaire's environmental, educational and governmental entities.

Year Founded: 2006