Biology & Environmental Studies

May 15th - June 5th -- 2010

This three week introduction to Ecuador's incredibly diverse tropical animals, plants, and landscapes utilizes natural history and environmental issue case studies to study the Andes, Amazon, and Galapagos islands. Through expedition learning the students will explore, study and learn the geography, biodiversity and endemism of Ecuador. In a rapid assessment format students will have the option to focus on plants, animals, behavior, ecology, geology. Natural history observations will be explicitly associated with and studied in the context of current environmental issues.  After exploring and studying, the students will report their findings and tell the expedition story to each other and the general public.

No prerequisite course work required except a strong desire to learn and contribute to an expeditionary team. An expedition is a short term intentional team with a mutually agreed upon mission. 

Course Description

Introductory field study of Andean, Galapagos and Amazon environments and biotic communities characteristic of  Ecuador.  Analysis of the evolution and interdependence of Ecuador ecosystems, and related environmental issues.  Includes study and use of basic field research techniques. Course utilizes the case study method and includes powerpoint lectures, seminar discussions, tutorial meetings, and supervised field study. Students are required to complete and submit short written study assignments, present a small field research project, two quizzes and complete a final examination.


For information about our Biology & Environmental Studies program please contact the Director of International Programs,  Esteban Figueroa at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .