Galapagos
In the footsteps of darwin
Dates
Description
Credits
Faculty
Eligibility
Cost
Application & Deadline
Contact
DATES
January 4- 17, 2007
DESCRIPTION
Students who take this 3-credit course will explore the jungle highlands of Ecuador and its capitol, Quito, the dramatic volcanic islands that gave Darwin key ideas for framing his theory of evolution, and (snorkeling) the equatorial waters of the Pacific Ocean teeming with unique species of fish, sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, and iguanas. Over half the trip will be on a tour boat with a highly trained naturalist who will give lectures on Darwin, evolution, controversies about the origin of species, and the history of animal, human, and political occupation of the Galapagos Islands. We will also enjoy lectures by Darwin Research Station scientists and native Galapagon residents as we visit various islands that have been described by many as a virtual Garden of Eden. A scientific background is not required to understand the unique sense of place, the historic role the islands have played, the evidence of evolution, and the challenges, including eco-tourism, of preserving this extraordinary natural assets.
CREDITS
3 Mason Credits in GOVT 444, 739, ANTH 399, SOCI 395, EVPP 490, 741, GEOL, GEOG 333, 533, HIST
FACULTY
Brack Brown, George Mason University
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: $4,253
The 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-occupancy rooms in hotels and cabins on boat
3 credits of Mason tuition
8 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
Pre-departure Orientation (December 2006)
What is not included:
Alcoholic beverages during any planned group meal
Tips to guides and servers
Personal expenses of any nature
Textbooks
Mandatory health insurance that will cover you overseas
anything not specifically mentioned above
Financial Aid may apply.
CGE Scholarships are available!
CGE reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.
APPLICATION & DEADLINE
Deadline: Friday, October 6, 2006
Participants who submit a completed application (CGE application and all required application materials) by September 15, 2006 will receive a $100 discount off the program fee.
To apply, first, consult the “How to Apply” section and, second, complete the application materials.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. You must pay a non-refundable $100 ($50 application fee and $50 airline deposit) for your application to be considered.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For more information, please attend a study abroad info session.
Program Officer: Carolyn Baum