Date

January 3 – 18, 2008

DESCRIPTION

In this 2-week, 3-credit course, you will experience and explore the natural and cultural highlights of equatorial regions in the Andes Mountains and the Galapagos Islands. You will experience the diverse ecosystems of each of these areas including of course the Galapagos Archipelago, where on the voyage of the Beagle, Darwin developed key ideas that led to his theory of evolution. You will observe recent volcanic and tectonic features in both the Andes and in the Galapagos. You will visit areas of cultural and anthropologic significance in and around the capital city of Quito, and in indigenous communities where you will experience some of their native rituals. You will be joined by scientists, naturalists, and local experts that will guide our exploration and will provide lectures on biodiversity, culture, evolution, volcanism, and various environmental issues. Participants will engage in a variety of activities including hiking, snorkeling, and swimming, which require a moderate degree of physical fitness. Part of the trip will be at altitudes above 10,000 ft. Overnight accommodations will include rooms in hotels and on tour boats.

CREDITS

3 Mason Credits in BIOL 505, EVPP 490, GEOG 333/533, GEOL 315/500, NCLC 395
Graduate Credit available.

HOUSING

Students will stay in double or triple occupancy accommodations

FACULTY

Rick Diecchio , Environmental Science & Policy, GMU

ELIGIBILITY

The program is open to George Mason University and non-Mason students of all levels, staff, faculty, and alumni, as well as the general public. To obtain credit, you need at least a 2.25 GPA. Participant should be in good physical condition as high altitude conditions and numerous small boat landings are among the trip experiences.

A passport that is valid for more than 6 months is required to travel to Ecuador.

If you are not a U.S. citizen it is your responsibility to check requirements to travel to Ecuador. More information can be found at http://www.ecuador.us/info/embassy.htm

COST

Program Fee: $4,775 ($4,825 for non-Mason applicants)

The program fee includes:

• Round-trip international airfare between Washington, D.C. and Quito, Ecuador
• Tours of the Capitol, Quito , and nearby jungle highlands
• Internal Round-trip airfare to Galapagos
• Double or triple occupancy accommodation
• 3 credits of Mason tuition
• Day cruise to the Galapagos Islands
• Day excursions to Islands
• Most meals
• Transportation to and from academic-related sites in Ecuador
• Transfers between airports and hotels in Ecuador
• Admission fee or entrance charge to all academic-related sites/parks in Ecuador, including the $100 Galapagos national park fee
• Services of an English-speaking guide in the Galapagos and Andean Highlands
• Local taxes and service charges on items listed above
• International Student Identity Card
• Travel guidebooks for the Galapagos Islands
  
• Assistance of/Supervision by an on-site Mason Faculty Director
  
• Organizational and administrative costs in the USA and Ecuador
  
• Limited Emergency Evacuation Insurance
  
• Mandatory Pre-departure Orientation (December 8, 2007)

The fee does NOT include:

• Alcoholic beverages during any planned group meal
  
• Tips to guides and servers
• Airport entry & departure tax
  
• Personal expenses of any nature
  
• Textbooks
  
• Mandatory health insurance that will cover you overseas
  

Financial aid may apply. Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad Scholarships available for Mason students! Click here to download a cost breakdown to take to your financial aid counselor to inquire about eligibility!

Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.

CGE reserves the right to raise its program fees in light of currency fluctuations or any other unforeseen circumstances.

APPLICATION & DEADLINE

Deadline: October 5, 2007

Participants who submit a completed application (Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad application and all required application materials) by September 14, 2007 will receive a $100 discount off the program fee.

To apply, first, consult the "How to Apply" section and, second, complete the online Center for Global Education - Mason Abroad application. You must pay the non-refundable $75 application fee and the non-refundable airline deposit for your application to be considered.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For more information, attend a study abroad info session.
Program Officer: Marie Alice Arnold