• Program Description:  2 weeks On line/ 2 1/2 weeks in Costa Rica with lectures and field sessions
• Hours and credits:  10 on line hours, 25 lecture hours, 30 lecture/field session hours  
  (6 credits) 

Dates:                                              On-line Virtual course begins:         Field session in Costa Rica:
J-Term Tropical Eco                     Dec 07th – Dec 18th, 2009                January 4th- January 20st, 2010
Summer Tropical Ecology          July 20th – July 31st                            August 4th- August 20th

There is no better way to learn about tropical ecology than to witness it first hand. Costa Rica offers the most amazing diversity. This program is the perfect way to obtain knowledge about the interrelated nature of tropical flora and fauna while learning the importance of managing natural resources and preserving natural environments. The existence of many different types of tropical environments in Costa Rica makes it an incredible place to study. With tropical beaches, active volcanoes, and impressive waterfalls, participants can experience the majesty of Mother Nature.

Students will learn about the importance of environmental conservation as well as the possibilities of sustainable development. The study of marine ecosystems, tropical biodiversity, and integrated coastal management will illustrate the relationships between humans, plants, and animals as well as demonstrate the fragility of such environments. This program provides a unique opportunity for students to not only learn about tropical environments but to see it and feel it in person.

Program Objectives:  
The purpose of this program is to expose exchange students to:
• General comprehension of the concepts and issues in relation to the development and conservation of Tropical Ecology.
• Introduction to Costa Rican ecosystems, biodiversity and environmental issues through field trips and field work in three different types of forests, volcanic zones, coral reef mangroves and estuaries.
• The importance of Ecological conservation.

ON-LINE CONTENTS
7. Global Interactions on Earth: Life on the Ocean and on Land and Ocean-Atmosphere Interactions
8. Ecology:     Basic Concepts in Ecology
9. Anthropogenic interventions: Pollution, Deforestation and Conservation

ON-SITE (at Costa Rica) CONTENTS & ITINERARY may be retrieve on the on-line course once enrolled.

PROGRAM COST
Following is the net prices per person:   $2.700 for a minimum of 5 students enrolled

Includes: Tuition and fees (2 weeks online 2 ½  weeks on the field in Costa Rica), materials, airport pick up and drop off, homestay lodging when in San José, Hotels during field work, ground transportation, park entrances, and three meals a day,  boat transportation.

Does not include airfare, spending money, airport taxes, insurance (must purchase international travel insurance from your own country).