Snapshot
Dates
| Term | Application Deadline | Program Start | Program End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Break | October 1, 2026 | TBD | TBD |
About the Program
Program Highlights
- Explore the beautiful coral reefs of the Bahamas while experiencing the local culture and expanding 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
- Take in Caribbean life while staying on the island of San Salvador, Bahamas!
Program Overview
The study of coral reefs is best taught as a field course and the best coral reefs are outside the U.S. 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 snorkeling and diving opportunities.
The Gerace Research Center on San Salvador is owned by the College of the Bahamas and serves as 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. Lecture rooms, laboratories, boats, and dive equipment are also available.
Academics
Prerequisites:
- Minimum 2.7 GPA
- Students may participate in study abroad anytime after freshman year (or completing 24 college credits post completion of high school).
- Note: students may apply to a program during freshman year but must have completed freshman year in good standing to participate in the program.
- BIOL 1012: General Biology 2
- Must be able to pass a basic swimming skills test as snorkeling is an essential part of the program
- Scuba certification is not required, but it is recommended and encouraged. A scuba certification program may be taught on campus prior to the program (dates to be determined) for interested students.
BIOL/EES Tropical Island Ecology, 4 credits*
*NOTE: This course is still pending approval.
Cost Information
Use this cost estimate to help calculate expenses and budget for your study abroad program. This includes all program fees billed to your UMD student account and necessary out-of-pocket expenses. Please note that cost estimates and fees may change depending on international economic factors. We will post final fees once enrollments, inflation, and exchange rates are determined in order to provide the most accurate pricing. We strive to post final fees by October 1 for Winter and Spring programs, March 1 for May/Summer programs, and May 1 for Fall and Academic Year programs. This cost does not include the $50 application fee.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- Scholarships are Available!
- Financial aid applies! Share the cost estimate with One Stop Student Services to understand how your financial aid can contribute to your study abroad program.
- Note: Credits taken on study abroad programs cannot be used toward the Bulldog Bundle.
Travel Documents
Get a passport right on campus! Processing times vary, but it can take several weeks to a few months to receive one. If you already have a passport, make sure its expiration date goes at least 6 months beyond the end date of your program so it's valid the entire time you're abroad.
Contact
Program Instructors
Bill Perry, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Minnesota Duluth. He is an ecologist who has taught general ecology, invertebrate zoology, and tropical rainforest ecology in Costa Rica. He has also traveled to many countries to conduct research, sabbatical, and dive trips, including but not limited to: Mauritius, Finland, Austria, Germany, New Zealand, Australia, Tanzania, Belize, Costa Rica, Cozumel, Mexico, Britain, Ireland, Canada, Northern Alaska north of the Brooks Range, Bonaire, Aruba, St. John Virgin Islands, and Samoa.
UMD Swenson College of Science & Engineering
Dept. of Biology
218-726-8145
[email protected]
Christina Gallup, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Her areas of focus are climate change and environmental science.
UMD Swenson College of Science & Engineering
Dept. of Earth & Environmental Sciences
219 Heller Hall
218-726-8984
[email protected]
Study Abroad Instructor-Led Program Coordinator
Resources
Apply
Before you click on the "Start my application" button below, make sure you know how to identify the correct program by searching for the:
- Program Name: UMD - Instructor-Led: Tropical Island Ecology - Spring Break;
and the - Term (e.g. Spring Break 2027)
A $50 non-refundable application fee will be billed to your One Stop account upon submission of an application.
After you apply
- After approximately 20 minutes, you will see checklist items for you to complete.
- All application checklist items need to be submitted by the application deadline which is noted near the top of the page.
- Your UMD Program Contact will review your application materials.
- You must complete the Confirmation of Participation form to confirm your participation.
- Once we receive your confirmation, your UMD account will be billed a confirmation deposit.
If you decide you cannot participate, you must log in to the online application system and submit the "Cancellation Request form."
Program health and safety information
is available at GO SAFE.
