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Coral Reef Studies in the Bahamas

Program Information | Costs | Orientation | Contact

Apply now!

Know the following program information, which you will provide on the online application: 

Country: Bahamas 
Program Name: Coral Reef Studies in the Bahamas

Early application is strongly encouraged, as space is limited and the program will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Complete applications include an essay and unofficial transcript. A non-refundable application fee of $50 will be billed to your student account upon submission of an online application.

Program Information

• Explore coral reefs in the Bahamas while experiencing the local culture and furthering your knowledge of ecological research.
  
• Utilize biological and geological field techniques to study coral reefs firsthand.
  
• Learn about the interactions between physical and biological factors that comprise coral reefs.
  
• Live on the island of San Salvador, Bahamas.

The study of coral reefs is best taught as a field course and the best coral reefs are outside the United States. The island of San Salvador is home to many shallow-water reefs and is known for its quick drop in the continental shelf, allowing for numerous snorkel and dive opportunities.

Owned by the College of the Bahamas, the Gerace Research Center in San Salvador, Bahamas is the host field station. The center was established to study the geology, biology and ecology of the coral reefs, coral islands, and tropical terrestrial ecosystems. The center provides housing and serves meals. Housing is dormitory style, with up to eight students per room. Lecture rooms, laboratories, boats and dive equipment are also available.

Earn 3 credits in FORS 5839, GEOL 5839/BIOL 5839: Coral Reef Field Studies. Course topics include:

• Physical environment of coral reefs: geomorphology, sedimentology and wave energy
• Ecology of coral reefs: the interrelationship of the physical environment and the biological communities
• Geological and biological field methods

Scuba certification is not required, but is recommended. A scuba certification program will be taught on campus this fall (dates to be determined) for interested students. All students will snorkel and must be comfortable in the water.

Students must have a passport, valid for at least six months after their return to the United States.

Costs
Estimated program costs can be found here.

A non-refundable application fee of $50 will be billed to your student account upon submission of an online application. A deposit of $400 will be billed to your student account upon your confirmation of participation. The remainder of the program fee will be billed through Student Accounts Receivable.

Financial aid may be applied toward the cost of the program if you are enrolled as a full-time student. There are also study abroad scholarships for University of Minnesota students.

Orientation
At least two pre-departure orientation sessions will be held. Pre-departure orientation will include information about financial aid, coursework and travel tips. A general study abroad handbook will be emailed prior to departure.

Familiarize yourself on financing, health and safety and policies to consider when studying abroad.

Contact
Contact the program leader, Paul Bates for program or itinerary questions. For application or registration questions, contact Arianna Austin in the International Education Office.