Coastal Studies in Belize Spring 2016 ation Abroad — c u d Unive E rsity of Nor th Carolina Wilmington Program Overview Explore the biological and physical aspects of the coastal ecosystems of Belize, including mangrove, seagrass and coral reef and lagoon habitats. Students will spend a week at the University of Belize Calabash Caye Field Station on Turneffe Atoll. Turneffe Atoll is located along the Belize barrier reef system, the longest barrier reef system in the Caribbean. This station offers close access to a variety of habitat types, as well as offering basic laboratory facilities in support of field research. Academics Student may receive credit for either BIO 480-Field Studies in Biology (3 credits), or EVS 431-International Field Experience (3 credits). The course will be co-taught by Troy Alpin and Eden Garcia (Biology and Marine Biology) and Dr. Jack Hall (Environmental Studies), with participation by an instructor from the University of Belize. In addition to the week long experience in Belize, students will also meet regularly during Spring 2016 semester to analyze data and spend time student an aspect of particular interest. Program Activities and Features While on Turneffe Atoll, daily activities will involve observation and sampling of lagoon, reef, seagrass, mangrove and other habitats, coupled with onsite lectures discussing these important ecosystems. This will involve snorkeling, as well as hiking through tropical, coastal forest communities. Considerable time will be spent in natural areas. Program Facts Location(s): Calabash Caye Field Staton, Turneffe Atoll, Belize Tentative Program Dates: January 2-10, 2016 in Belize; regular meetings during Spring 2016 semester Program Leader(s): Dr. Jack Hall - hallj@uncw.edu Environmental Studies Troy Alpin and Eden Garcia Biology and Marine Biology Application Deadline: November 17, 2016 • • To apply log in at: https://itsappserv02.uncw.edu/ intprogapp/ and select your program of choice. A $500 non-refundable deposit is due at time of application Eligibility: Students are eligible to apply for this program if they meet the following eligibility criteria: • • • • • Degree-seeking student At least Sophomore standing at time of participation Good judicial standing 2.5 GPA at time of application Have pre-requisites for BIO 480 or EVS 431 Learn more at www.uncw.edu/international Open up yo ur w orld - Go Abroad! Cost Estimated Program Fee: $1,602 Program Fee Includes: Location The Calabash Caye Field Station is a rustic research and teaching laboratory operated by the University of Belize. It is located directly adjacent to the barrier reef system and coral reef communities, seagrass habitat, other lagoon communities, and mangroves are all located within easy walking or swimming distance. Coastal Belize offers some of the most pristine natural habitats along the Central American coast, with a diversity of plants and animals. The station has bunk house style dormitory housing for students and food is provided in their cafeteria. Basic laboratory facilities are available for examining organisms and conducting field-based research. • Medical insurance • Dormitory lodging and all meals while at Calabash • Water taxi transportation from Belize City to Calabash and return • Facilities use at Calabash • Boat transportation and snorkeling • Lab fees • Internet access Additional Costs: (not included in program fee) • Round Trip Flight $800 • Miscellaneous other • UNCW Tuition for 3 credits if not a full time student for Spring Semester • Exit fee: $41 Financial Aid & Scholarships Federal and state financial aid may be applied toward this program. Even if you are normally ineligible for financial aid, you should submit a financial aid application (FAFSA). You may find that you are eligible for additional funding. UNCW students may also apply for a UNCW Summer Education Abroad Grant and additional study abroad scholarships. Grant applications and additional information are available at www.uncw.edu/international/abroad/aid.html. O ff f Int ice o ernatio n a l P r o g r a m s • 11 8 F r i d a y A n n e x • UNC W ilming ton • 601 S o uth C o ll e g e Ro ad • Wilm ing ton, N C 284 03-59 6 5 • 910.962.3685 • studyabroad@unc w.edu