Study Abroad

Environmental Education and Service Learning in the Tropics, Costa Rica
(taught in English)

June 7 - 19, 2008

Study in the Caribbean in Summer 2008 with TU Professor Sarah Haines. This program provides a unique opportunity for students to use nationally recognized environmental education materials from Project Learning Tree (a division of the American Forest Foundation) in a tropical setting. Students will use Project Learning Tree materials to apply ecological concepts to environmental education and the use and management of natural resources in Costa Rica. Students will work side-by-side with local community members to complete environmental action projects. Through hands on experience, participants will develop an awareness and appreciation for the local culture and environment.

The program is based at the Selva Verde Lodge and Rainforest Reserve - a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, birders and general travelers. Committed to conservation and preservation, Selva Verde carries and supports the Certification for Sustainable Tourism.

Program highlights include a whitewater rafting excursion on the Sarpiqui River, a tour of InBio Parque nature theme park, birdwatching walks at Selva Verde Lodge, a hike into the Selva Verde Reserve guided by a local wildlife expert, a visit to the Arenal Volcano, salsa dancing lessons and much more!

Click here to view the program schedule (subject to change).

Housing: Participants will stay at lodges and hotels with students sharing rooms with one or more classmates. Accommodations include the Selva Verde Lodge located in the heart of the rainforest, the Suerre Caribbean Beach Hotel , the Volcano Turrialba Lodge, and the Hotel Vesuvio in San Jose.

Instructor: Prof. Sarah Haines, Towson University Department of Biological Sciences.

Course: BIOL 494 (course # to be confirmed) Environmental Education and Service Learning in the Tropics (3 credits).

TU students may receive Honors credit for their study abroad experience - click here for more information.

Cost: *$3,500 includes tuition (3 credits), health insurance, housing, meals, roundtrip airfare, transportation between program sites, excursions. Additional costs include $150 study abroad fee, personal spending money for shopping and any excursions students undertake during free time.

*The Towson University Study Abroad Office reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.

Click here for information about scholarships.

Application Deadline: MARCH 15, 2008. Admission is on a rolling basis. Early application is advised as space is limited.

Application Process : Fill out an application and submit it to the TU Study Abroad Office. $250 deposit required at time of application. Non-TU students must also submit a completed Non-Degree Enrollment Application.

For Further Information: Contact Prof. Sarah Haines , Towson University Department of Biological Sciences., 410-704-2926 or the TU Study Abroad Office.