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*Embedded: BIOL 499 - Tropical Field Ecology - University Park (Outgoing Embedded Program)

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  • Locations: Alajuela, Costa Rica; Cerro de la Muerte, Costa Rica; Heredia, Costa Rica; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Uvita, Costa Rica
  • Program Terms: Winter- Embedded
  • Host Program Website: Visit host website for more information
  • Restrictions: PSU applicants only
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Type of Program: Embedded
Program Description:

Program Overview     

Tropical Field Ecology in Costa Rica, Central America will explore lowland, montane, and mangrove forests; hike, study, and relax on an unspoiled tropical coastline; visit an active volcano; snorkel on a Pacific coral reef; learn to perform ecological research in the field; learn about tropical plants, animals, and their habitats. Costa Rica is an excellent place to take a tropical ecology course. This country has developed a strong national parks system, and currently more than 28 percent of the national territory is protected. Many of these protected areas have facilities for educational and research purposes. Our course visits five different areas in Costa Rica that offer students a broad overview of tropical ecosystems. 

Dates

December 27, 2023 - January 11, 2024

Program Quicklinks     

Eligibility
Housing and Meals
Program Costs
Financial Aid & Scholarships
More Information
How to Apply
Other Useful Links

Eligibility

Any pre-requisite courses are established by the faculty leader or department hosting the course.  The following have been listed as pre-requisites for consideration to enroll in this course and travel on the embedded education abroad program:
  • BIOL 220 is recommended but not a hard requirement. The professor determines from the transcript and narrative if they are ready for a 400-level science course. 
  • This 3-credit course is open to all majors at all Penn State campuses.
  • Admission in the course and permission to travel with the group are at the discretion of the faculty leader and/or academic department hosting the course. Academic standing and disciplinary or conduct issues may impact eligibility.
  • The education abroad program may involve swimming, kayaking, boating, and/or snorkeling that is part of the official program itinerary or an optional activity during free time. Students must complete a Water Safety Acknowledge of Risk form in order to participate on the program.
  • Students should expect long days of walking and hiking for research and/or curricular activities, sometimes in rugged terrain, and in hot, humid weather conditions.

Housing and Meals

During the embedded travel component, housing will consist of overnight accommodations in a dormitory/student residence.

Program Costs

Students pay regular Penn State tuition (either in-state or out-of-state) for the credits associated with the embedded course.  Travel costs, lodging, meals, excursions, and other fees are determined by the program budget which is set by the program leader.  Please consult the program leader for additional information.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Global Programs administers a scholarship that is specifically designated to support students studying abroad on embedded courses.  The scholarship is competitive, and the deadlines to apply are strictly enforced.  Please review the Embedded Programs Scholarship eligibility, deadlines, and application process.

For More Information

For more information about this course, please contact the program leader: James Marden by emailing jhm10@psu.edu.

How to Apply

The process for enrolling in an embedded course varies according to the instructor and/or department.  The program leader has indicated that in order to enroll in the course and travel component, students must fill out an online application form showing their year, relevant courses, transcript, and short narrative statement of why they want to take this course. Applications received by September 24, 2023 will be given first priority for acceptance into the course.

Studying Abroad with a Disability

Many students with disabilities successfully study abroad each year. Please note that other cultures may have different attitudes and available accommodations regarding disabilities. While we cannot guarantee the accessibility of all program sites and locations, specific accommodations may be arranged in consultation with our office, the Student Disability Resources office, and our partners abroad. To prepare for success, students are strongly encouraged to research the country and program location to consider if and how they will manage their disabilities abroad in advance of selecting a program. Students with disabilities and other diverse backgrounds can begin their research on our Diversity Awareness Abroad page.


Dates / Deadlines:

There are currently no active application cycles for this program.