In addition to research and field study within and specific to our academic programs, we also offer field studies of the biology of selected geographic areas, including the area's ecology, flora, and fauna.

To participate, you must obtain permission of the department chair, and contact the individual advisor. Upon approval, you must enroll in the course BIO 420/BIO 520 Field Biology of Distant Areas (3 to 12 credit hours may be earned) and pay applicable travel and general fees.

Locations

Belize

Tropical Ecology of Belize, BIO 420/520, is an intensive, two week, international field course designed primarily for majors in biology, natural science, and related fields, yet it is open to students of all majors.

This course introduces you to the general principles of tropical ecology, emphasizing forest and marine ecology, conservation, biodiversity concepts, plant and animal interactions and adaptations, effects of human disturbance on native flora and fauna, and field research techniques.

You will develop and apply skills in field research and in using the scientific method. You will conduct two independent research projects, one in a rainforest system and one in a marine system.

The course is 3 credit hours and a special fee applies.

Offered early summer following spring semester (2-3 weeks in early May).

Tropical Forest Ecology and Marine Biology of Costa Rica is an intensive, two-week international field course designed primarily for majors in biology, natural science, and related fields, but the course is open to students in all majors.

This course will introduce you to the general principles of tropical ecology, emphasizing forest and marine ecology, conservation, biodiversity concepts, plant and animal interactions and adaptations, effects of human disturbance on native flora and fauna, and field research techniques. An introduction to sustainability will include a tour of a sustainable ecotourism lodge and a plantation with shade-grown coffee. The course includes a community activity with a local school.

You will develop and apply skills in field research and in using the scientific method. You will conduct two independent research projects.

Offered early summer following spring semester (2-3 weeks in early May).

Ecology and Conservation Biology in South Africa, BIO 420/520, gives you the opportunity to study abroad with specific course objectives in:

  • Reserve management
  • Ecosystem and biodiversity management
  • African local community cultures and conservation
  • Sustainable resource utilization techniques
  • Game capture and handling techniques

Cost includes airfare, tuition, room, all meals, and transportation in South Africa.

Offered early summer following spring semester (2-3 weeks in early May).

You can personally experience the natural history of the marine, estuarine, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats of the Atlantic coast of the southeastern United States. This can happen through a nine-day field excursion to Sapelo Island, Georgia during the spring break from classes. We will stay at the University of Georgia Marine Institute.

You will become familiar with the basic ecology and organisms of the southeast U.S. coastal habitats. Weekly meetings prior to the field trip include information that helps familiarize you with the biological diversity that you will encounter.

You can expect to improve your skills associated with designing, conducting, and analyzing biological field studies. Prior to the trip, you will conduct literature searches and formulate tentative hypotheses in preparation for research projects to be conducted at Sapelo Island. Methodology and statistical analyses must be described before the trip.

Our time at the coast will be divided into whole-group activities and individual projects. Upon return to campus, class meetings will be used for data analysis, creation of poster presentations, and other learning assessment.

The course is 3 credit hours and a special fee applies.

Offered as a spring semester trip over spring break.