Comparative Ecology and Conservation
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About this Program
You will live like a biologist as you explore the Amazon rainforest, the Andes, cloud forests, Pacific Ocean coastline, and the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador—unique climatic niches that harbor ecological treasures and a plethora of flora and fauna. Within these diverse and vulnerable settings, you will conduct biological fieldwork, studying plants and insects, taking soil and water samples, conducting species counts, using mist nets, and observing birds. You will also have the opportunity to live with two different homestay families: in the capital city of Quito and the rural cloud forest. See for yourself the importance of Ecuador’s biota as you learn from researchers during excursions to the Andean páramo highlands, the Amazon Region, and the Cloud Forest of North-Western Ecuador. You will also spend a week exploring the Galápagos Islands by land and sea. Hone the skills you will need to talk about environmental and conservation issues, conduct field research, and engage in institutional and community discussions related to ecology and biology.
Program Highlights
- When you study at the SIT's Ecuador Study Center, you'll take Spanish language courses, tropical ecosystems, conduct biological fieldwork, and study conservation in one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. all within a program designed specifically for American students. While study center programs typically offer less exposure to local students and follow a more American-style curriculum compared to local universities, this program provides a highly experiential learning environment, making it ideal for an interdisciplinary approach to both your major and language acquisition. SIT supports you with pre-departure advising & support, visa-related support, airport reception, onsite orientation, onsite staff support, 24/7 emergency assistance, comprehensive global medical insurance, housing & meals, cultural activities, excursions, personal and professional development, and optional flight assistance.
Level of Immersion
Language(s) of Instruction:
- English
- Spanish
Features
- Courses with Study Abroad Students
- Research Opportunities
- Experiential Field Study
- Study Center Program
- Visa Light
Housing Abroad
- Students arrange and pay for housing directly through the Global Partner or its housing provider. See the Budget Worksheet for estimated housing costs. Available housing options:
- Homestay
Program Dates
- Fall Semester: late August to mid-December
- Spring Semester: early-February to mid-May
Housing at Seattle University
Moving can be both costly and stressful, but careful planning can help minimize both. Start by creating a housing plan for before and after your study abroad experience to avoid the pressure of continuing to pay for rent at home. Program fees typically cover housing abroad, so if you expect to incur additional domestic rent expenses, be sure to include these in your budget. If possible, consider staying with family or friends temporarily before you depart or when you return to save on costs.
Housing Residence Life
Education Abroad typically recommends considering Seattle University on-campus housing for when students return from their programs, as Housing Residence Life staff are able to support students in securing housing, while adhering to student preferenceas best as they can.
Housing Application
Check the Housing Portal for more specific dates
- Winter Quarter Housing applications open in November
- Spring Quarter Housing applications open in February
- Fall Quarter Housing applications open in May