Organization for Tropical Studies: Tropical Biology on a Changing Planet

» General Information

Location:

San Jose, Costa Rica and various field research stations (Population: 4.3 million)

Description:

The semester program, designed for biology and environmental science majors, but open to students from all disciplines, represents a unique opportunity to learn about the inner workings of field ecology under the direct guidance of experienced ecologists.  Students will also learn about the conservation of tropical ecosystems through a series of field-based case studies with ecologists and local stakeholders, and improve their Spanish with a homestay and intensive language instruction. The program is academically rigorous and participatory, employing a combination of field and classroom instruction, hands-on research, and cultural exchange that allows students to broaden their academic and personal horizons.

Terms:

Fall Semester (Fall Quarter)

Sponsor:

Duke University & the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS)

Website:

OTS Costa Rica: Tropical Biology on a Changing Planet


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Language Requirements

1 year of college level Spanish, or equivalent

Northwestern Requirements

If you think you might declare a major or minor in Spanish or Portuguese, either before studying abroad or once you return, meet with a study abroad adviser in the Department before you leave. To arrange an appointment, please call 847-491-8249.

Program Requirements

In addition to the Spanish language requirement, the following is also required: 1 year of college level Biology, or equivalent

Academic Specialties

Field studies in Tropical Biology, Environmental Science and Policy, lectures from prominent researchers, two independent study projects, and access to major research libraries in tropical biology.

Course Type

OTS program courses

Additional Information

During the program students will visit three OTS Field Stations:
  • La Selva Biological Station, located in lowland tropical forest on the Atlantic slope, is an internationally renowned research center and home to thousands of species of flora and fauna.
  • Las Cruces Biological Station, located in cool mid-elevation forest on the Pacific slope, houses Costa Rica's premier botanical garden with the richest plant collection of Central America.
  • Palo Verde Biological Station, located in seasonally dry forest of northwest Costa Rica, provides direct access to extensive wetlands with a host of magnificent waterfowl.

Housing

Home stays, dormitories, and rural field stations

Program Costs

Estimated Costs:  Fall 2011
For the most updated program cost information, please refer to your program provider’s website.

  • Tuition:  $20,433
  • Room & Board:  $1,650
  • SAAF:  $2,355
  • Transportation:  $1,000
  • Books & Supplies:  $100
  • Personal Expenses:  $750
  • HTH:  $134
  • Duke Transcript Fee:  $40
  • Total Estimated Costs:  $26,462

Additional Information:

For more information on billing and financial aid, visit the Financial Considerations section of the website.

Approximate Program Size

15 students

Application Requirements

Northwestern students must complete two applications for this program:
  1. Northwestern University Application for Permission to Study Abroad.
  2. Duke-OTS program application.

Contact Returnees

Northwestern students may enter this section of the site for a list of students who participated in this program.