Marine Biology

  Belize

• Other Cities in Belize: 
San Ignacio

Term: Summer 
Dates: June 4 - July 3, July 9 August 7, 2010

Description: Marine Ecosystems is an intensive, experiential systems-ecology course that covers a twelve-day timeframe and includes classroom, field and laboratory components. Taught within the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the course involves students in the exploration of coastal marine systems through biodiversity surveys, ecology table construction, habitat descriptions and development of interconnectivity diagrams.

Field and laboratory work is focused on the identification and niche descriptions of marine organisms of the western Caribbean, with ecology tables being compiled and refined during each lab session and after each snorkel.

Lectures introduce broader concepts of composition, structure, function and dynamics of tropical marine ecosystems, from coastal zone systems (salt-wedge estuaries, brackish lagoons, mangal forests, grassbeds, coral reefs) to deep ocean benthic communities.

The biological components of marine ecosystems within neuston, plankton, nekton and benthic communities, and the general ecological roles of key organisms are emphasized throughout lecture topics.

Global perspectives of marine system ecology are discussed and polar, temperate and tropical Pacific systems compared to Caribbean marine ecosystems.

Issues of human impact on marine ecosystems are critically examined, particularly within Belize, and possible solutions to these environmental abuses that we, as a global society, perpetuate are discussed.

Ultimately this course promotes a greater awareness, understanding and respect for marine ecosystem and our individual and collective responsibility for the conservation of Earth's coastal zones, seas and oceans.

Highlights:
* Well managed study abroad programs with full support services
* Lush tropical campus
* Experienced local and international faculty
* Exciting course load with an emphasis on field and experiential learning component
* Diverse student population
* Full cultural immersion experience
* Bilingual community: opportunity to learn and practice Spanish
* Easy access to Belize's many tourist attractions
* Diving or snorkeling along the barrier reef
* Canoeing, kayaking, or tubing on the rivers
* Climbing and exploring ancient Mayan temples/Ruins
* Trekking through tropical forests
* Exploring caves filled with stalagmites, stalactites, and Mayan artifacts
* Visiting the Belize Zoo, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the Community Baboon Sanctuary or the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
* Swimming under the waterfalls in the Mountain Pine Ridge
* Enjoying the magic of the Belize Botanical Gardens or Godoy's Orchid Garden
* Viewing butterflies at Tropical Wings butterfly house, or Chaa Creek Blue Morpho Butterfly Breeding Centre
* Pampering yourself at one of the many spas and resorts which range from budget to exclusive

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: 4,250 USD

* 6 credits hours for the summer programs
* Lab and field fees
* Airport pickup and transfer from Belize City to San Ignacio (must arrive / depart with the group)
* Transportation on Galen bus to and from field sites
* Double occupancy accommodation see HOUSING below
* Breakfast (Mondays to Fridays)
* Orientation

Housing is arranged by Galen University. Students are housed in double occupancy, local family run resort accommodations which include basic amenities with access to astudy room and communal kitchen facilities. The resort has wireless internet and air conditioning. Students have the option to request a single room. A single supplementary fee is chargeable to those requesting a single room.

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Belize Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 5 to 15 students

Application Process Involves:

• Disciplinary Clearance Form
• Other
• Transcript
• Written Application

Galen University's Mission Statement: The mission of Galen University is to provide excellence in undergraduate, graduate, and professional education to prepare students to achieve their dreams and goals. Galen University is committed to providing an exciting and stimulating learning environment, innovative and supportive teaching, scholarship, and active service to the community with a unique focus on 'sustainable development' throughout our courses, programs, and service.

Year Founded: 2002