SIT Study Abroad Panama: Tropical Ecology, Marine Ecosystems, and Biodiversity Conservation
Explore rain forests, coral reefs, highland canopies, and coastal mangroves as you study tropical conservation and ecology.
WHY STUDY TROPICAL ECOLOGY IN PANAMA?
Panama has some of the world’s most biodiverse and complex ecosystems, from highland cloud forests to Caribbean coral reefs. You will conduct seven weeks of field studies in five unique settings in Panama and Costa Rica. Learn how to estimate forest biodiversity, evaluate coral reef health, calculate mangrove carbon, identify tropical fish species, and quantify Neotropical mammal abundance among other skills.
In Panama City, one of the leading bases for international NGOs and the United Nations, you’ll explore conservation topics such as sustainable agriculture, indigenous resource use, and ecotourism. You will also conduct four weeks of independent, original field research project on a topic of your choice.
Your program also includes five homestays during which you will learn about urban and rural life, experience local culture, and examine the environmental challenges these communities face.
In addition, you will develop the Spanish language skills needed to discuss ecological issues and conduct field research through classroom learning, cultural immersion, homestays, fieldwork, and excursions.
Please visit the SIT Study Abroad website for details on the program highlights and details of coursework, educational excursions, and housing.
MONEY MATTERS
SIT is an all-inclusively priced study abroad program – including academics costs, excursions, accommodations and meals, airport transfers, and health insurance. Be sure to discuss how study abroad costs are handled at your school with your study abroad advisor and read the website for more specific information.
SCHOLARSHIPS
SIT has awarded an average of over $1.3 million in scholarships and grants to SIT Study Abroad students in the past three years. All scholarships and grants are need-based. Awards generally range from $500 to $5,000.
CONTACT SIT STUDY ABROAD
MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS RESOURCES
To ensure a successful study abroad experience, it is important to research the mental health and wellness resources provided by the study abroad program to determine if they offer appropriate support for your particular needs.
SIT provides health insurance and partners with International SOS to provide medical and security assistance services. SIT also provides confidential remote counseling services for short-term, solution-focused sessions and can refer you to local mental health providers. We urge you to explore these resources via the links that SIT provided below to determine if your needs will be met.
REQUIREMENTS FOR VASSAR STUDENTS
Vassar students must have completed one year of college-level Spanish or the equivalent in order to apply. Students are expected to enroll in a Spanish language course at the appropriate level while studying with SIT.
