Study Abroad

Tropical Field Ecology in Peru
(taught in English)

May 25 - June 19, 2008

Experience Peru in Summer 2008 with TU Professor Harald Beck. This program provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to conduct ecological research in the heart of the Amazonian rainforest in Peru. Participants will spend time in the city of Cusco and visit different major tropical ecosystems to study their abiotic, biotic, and ecological settings. After a 3-day boat trip on the Manu River, students will arrive at the remote Cocha Cashu Biological Station in Manu National Park - one of the largest and most pristine rainforest reserves in the world.

Click here to see photos from the program.

At the site, students will carry out their independent research projects in teams including data collection, statistical analyses, and writing a journal style manuscript. Participants will also have the opportunity to interact with other researchers from national and international research institutions while staying at the field station. Through lectures, seminars, and hikes, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of tropical ecology and be exposed to the Peruvian culture and people.

Program highlights include a visit to the lost city of Machu Picchu, a bus trip across the Andes mountain range, and numerous hikes and night-walks to explore the different local tropical habitats.

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

Housing: Participants will be camping and/or staying at lodges including Pantiacolla Lodge.

Instructor: Prof. Harald Beck , Towson University Department of Biological Sciences.

Course: BIOL 447/547 Tropical Field Ecology in Peru (4 credits).

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

Cost:* $4,400 includes tuition (4 credits), health insurance, accommodation, most meals, roundtrip airfare, transportation between program sites, excursions. Additional costs include $150 study abroad fee, personal spending money and any activities 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 undergraduate students must also submit a completed Non-Degree Enrollment Application. Non-TU graduate students must also submit an Application for Graduate School.

For Further Information: Contact Prof. Harald Beck , Towson University Department of Biological Sciences., 410-704-3125 or the TU Study Abroad Office.