This study abroad course is designed to explore biodiversity and sustainability in the unique setting of the Galápagos Islands. The Galápagos have a long history of biological research, with exceptional biodiversity and endemism (i.e., species that only occur on the Galápagos). There are also clear challenges for sustainability on the islands including very limited freshwater and high tourism pressure.
In this 10-day Maymester course that begins shortly after the end of spring term, students will learn about:
- Interesting and unique species found on the Galápagos Islands including the marine iguana, blue footed booby, Galápagos giant tortoise, Galápagos penguin, magnificent frigatebird, and more!
- How species on the islands survive and cope with their environment
- How the biological processes of colonization, speciation, and adaptation have shaped the species on the Galápagos
- The history of people on the Galápagos Islands
- Current threats to the biodiversity and sustainability of the Galápagos Islands
Students will also complete a small research project during their time in the Galápagos, studying island species in their natural habitats.
Students will learn skills including:
- Field data collection
- Species identification
- Biodiversity/population monitoring and conservation
- Independent research experience
- Data management and analysis
- Scientific communication
- Water quality diagnostics
- Natural resource management
- Cross-cultural communication
General schedule (subject to change; all dates are for 2027):
May 12: Arrive in Quito. Introductions.
May 13: Spend the day in Quito including a tour of the Historic Center and a visit to the USFQ Cumbaya campus.
May 14: Fly to Galápagos. Welcome lunch in San Cristóbel. USFQ Galapagos orientation, and visits to the Interpretation Center, Frigate Bird Hill, and Darwin’s Bay (possible snorkeling*).
May 15: Introductory lectures on the biology of the Galápagos (endemic species, adaptations, processes that have shaped species on the islands), Free afternoon with optional snorkeling*
May 16: Full day tour of Kicker Rock with snorkeling.* Kicker rock is a vertical rock formation located about 10 miles off San Cristóbel Island and is known as an excellent location for seeing marine life including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays. Dinner in San Cristóbel.
May 17: Lectures on the biodiversity of Galápagos. Introduction to research projects. Students will develop a research project plan and then spend the afternoon collecting data for their projects.
May 18: Introduction to field work and water sampling techniques. Visit to local freshwater sites for water sampling in the morning followed by afternoon laboratory analysis for water quality.
May 19: Morning lecture on sustainability concerns in the Galapagos. Analysis of the results of water quality analysis from previous day. Afternoon for additional data collection and analysis for projects.
May 20: Visit in the morning to Hacienda Tranquila, a sustainable farm, where students will learn about sustainable living on the Galápagos. Afternoon presentation of projects and farewell dinner.
May 21: Fly back to Quito, depart Ecuador
*Students must be able to swim to participate in the snorkeling activities. Alternative activities can be arranged, but please reach out to the program director before you commit to the program if you have any questions about snorkeling.