Course Details and Contact Information

Next travel dates:
20 May to 10 June, 2012

The way ecology, agriculture and people interact to define the challenges of achieving sustainability

A Study Abroad Program with a Biological Beat

Travel to Costa Rica, and enjoy spectacular landscapes. Visit its amazing ecosystems. Study the crops that grow in environments that range from sea level to soaring volcanic peaks, and accommodate everything from hi-tech agriculture to traditional home gardens near a cloud forest.

Costa Rica boasts one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world. Agricultural production is taking place adjacent to wilderness areas, and gradually encroaching upon these. Wilderness areas are further affected by a large influx of tourists. Within this context, sustainability and sustainable development serves as the course theme.

You will travel from the Caribbean to the Pacific, exploring many of the major ecosystems and major agricultural areas of Costa Rica. Through a combination of site visits, hands-on activities, hikes, and research projects, you will develop your own sense of sustainability from first-hand experiences and contact with Costa Rican citizens.

Application & fee details

Trip preparations: A whole list

Additional information for non-University System of Georgia students

E-mail Dr. Wayne Parrott, the instructor

This course is co-taught by Dr. Michelle Schroeder-Moreno, NC State University

News articles about this course:

2003

2004

2005

2006-1, 2006-2, and 2006-3

2008

2010

Visit the photo gallery from past trips to learn more about the locations visited and the student activities.