Biodiversity and Tropical Field Biology in Costa Rica WINTERIM: December 26, 2008 - January 14, 2009
Printable PDF information
Experience the complexity and beauty of some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the world. Explore rain forests, cloud forests, active volcanoes, estuaries, mangrove swamps, coral reefs, beaches, and dry tropical forests.
Observe the fauna, flora, and magnificent scenery of this small but diverse country. See several hundred species of birds including quetzals and macaws; also leatherback turtles, howler monkeys, crocodiles, coatis, sloths and maybe even a jaguarundi.
Study the Costa Rican model for managing natural resources in a tropical country. Investigate ecological issues including sustainable development and ecotourism strategies and challenges.
Experience and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica -- and its traditions of democracy, peace and hospitality.
Request an application from Bobbi Kubish, CNR Room 174 or the International Programs Office, CCC Room 108. Return completed applications to International Programs with a $250 (nonrefundable) deposit.
Limited enrollment to 25 students – Application deadline: June 1 – apply early as this program fills fast! Late applications can be considered only if there is room. Check with the International Programs Office regarding available positions.
Go to the Applications page to find out how to get an application.
Most seminars are open to all majors and minors, not simply those whose field/s matches the department/s granting credit. For continuing UWSP students a minimum GPA of 2.25 is required.
Priority is given to regularly registered UWSP students, but students from other universities and community members are welcome to apply. All participants will be registered in a college course, for credit or audit at the same cost, and will be expected to participate in the program at an intellectual level.
We do work on a first come, first serve basis, so early registration is strongly advised. Priority is given to regularly registered UWSP and UW-System students, but others, may participate either for credit or a auditors on a space-available basis and at the same cost. All participants, whether students or auditors and regardless of age, must be able to participate in the program at the college level, and stand up to the considerable physical rigors of this course (carrying your luggage on public transit systems and extensive walking are common).
Participants enroll for three credits of Natural Resources 479/679: International Environmental Studies Seminar, with a credit or audit option (same charge for all). No prerequisites. Graduate credits can be arranged at an additional cost.
Leaders include CNR Faculty and Costa Rican Instructors/Naturalists
Approximately $3,950 - $4,350Estimation based on 25 participants
Cost Includes:
SPECIAL NOTE: If you are not a Wisconsin resident AND you enroll in more than 18 credits for the Spring 2008 semester, you will be assessed an additional out-of-state surcharge.
Although most overnight lodging will be in hotels and ecotourist resorts, the group will camp in participant's tents for 3 nights, and spend one night with a host family in a small town or village. Participants should be prepared to travel and live closely with a group of 25 other students (of all ages), adjust to a busy pace, be flexible, and enjoy lots of wonderful experiences.
Participants will travel in Costa Rica by bus and boat. Most of the national parks and biological reserves are best viewed by foot on hiking trails. The trails on this trip vary in length from less than a kilometer to 12 kilometers. Some of the trails are hilly, muddy and/or rocky. It is also likely that it will be necessary to wade in water to board boats. It is recommended that participants make an effort to be in reasonably good physical condition prior to departure for Costa Rica.
Tentative Locations, Parks, and Activities*
*Tentative locations, parks and activities – final details are currently being arranged. Most sites will be visited.
Up to ten weeks before the start of the program, all fees except the initial deposit may be refunded for withdrawal. After that time, airline and housing cancellation charges may be assessed. If the program would be canceled, all fees will be refunded. Because exchange rates and airline prices fluctuate, International Programs reserves the right to cancel, surcharge, or to alter the program.
to top
