At A Glance
04 Weeks | 04 Credits
Summer 2023
Jun 2 - Jul 2
Closed
Summer 2024
Jun 2 - Jul 2
Open
Prerequisites
None
Tropical Island Ecosystems: The Human Impact
Bocas del Toro Archipelago
Study abroad in Panama and immerse yourself in the dynamic community of Bocas del Toro. Snorkel and hike through the diverse environments of Bocas – from coral reefs and mangroves to beaches and rainforests – and study human impacts, such as tourism, on the island’s ecosystems and communities. Meet the local residents who depend on both tourism and natural resources and learn about current approaches to sustainable development in the archipelago.
- Connect with Indigenous Ngäbe island communities: Learn about the importance of the natural environment to their culture and their efforts to create authentic, sustainable tourism.
Application deadlines:
Summer 1 – April 1
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Program Costs & Financial Aid
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Academics
This academically rigorous program follows a six-day/week schedule. The interdisciplinary curriculum is designed to help students actively discover and understand the complexities of environmental, social, and economic issues in Panama. Read more about the SFS program model.
Major academic themes include:
- Biodiversity and ecosystem health assessments
- Rainforest and marine ecology
- Indigenous tourism and sustainability
- Tourism impacts on ecosystems and human populations
- Marine protected areas
Where You'll Be Living
The Center, once a hotel, lies among the slender palms and warm waters of Isla Colón. You’ll live, study, relax, and enjoy communal meals with your cohort, here. Across the street, you’ll find a beach with waterfront access for swimming and paddleboarding. The laidback hub of Bocas Town is a short taxi ride away, with access to shops, restaurants, and a vibrant culture that is as unique as the mix of people who live here.
- Dorm living in ~4-person bunkrooms
- Indoor/outdoor classroom and study space
- Student lounge space
- Casual al-fresco dining area and on-site cooking staff
- Swimming pool, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling
