Study Abroad / Saint Mary's Programs

Biodiversity of Belize

Semester Program

Short Term Programs

Biodiversity of Belize

Short-term Study Abroad Program

B365 focuses on the study of the rain forest and coral reef ecosystems, as well as the major diversity of plants and animals, and relevant conservation issues in Belize. The course structure consists of regular class meetings during the spring semester that are followed in May by a hands-on learning experience in Belize. Students will have the opportunity to experience some of the most biologically rich eco systems in the Western Hemisphere. Students will spend time observing wildlife in the largest tract of protected rainforest north of the Amazon before heading to the coast to focus on marine ecosystems.

January 7, 2025 by 4:00pm is the last day to withdraw (and not have to pay the course fee). Please inform the Study Abroad office if/when you choose to withdraw. Withdrawal after this day/time will not eliminate the requirement to pay the course fee. By January 9, 2025, the course fee will be set & adjusted if necessary.

Course Information

B 365 Biodiversity in Belize
3 credit spring semester course
Satisfies upper-level biology elective; an Integratus CE requirement (101 or 102); a science course within both the Environmental Sustainability and Global Diversity & Social Justice minors.

Travel Dates

May 4 – May 15, 2025

Trip Highlights

Belize Zoo – Tropical Education Center

Private night tour

Belize Foundation for Research & Environmental Education (BFREE)

Bird banding & hicatee turtle conservation
Guided rain forest hikes
Ecology of tropical rivers
Agroecology

International Zoological Expeditions (IZE)

Snorkeling
Kayaking

Course Fee

$3,900 – $4,400
Course fee covers lodging, in-country travel, guided activities, and majority of meals. Cost of airfare, passport and some meals are not included in the course fee and are the responsibility of the student.

*Cost will vary based on student enrollment.

Room and Board

The first night will be spent in lodgings at the Belize Zoo. During the BFREE stay, participants will reside in an elevated bunkhouse serviced by a rainwater collection system, and IZE offers a marine lodge. Most meals are provided at each site.

Eligibility

Minimum GPA 2.0 (2.5 preferred)
Sophomore status or above; preference given to junior and senior Biology majors
Review of applicant’s SMU behavior record
Faculty recommendations
Ability to swim

Application Process

Students must apply by December 2 2024. Once accepted, students will be enrolled in B365 for the spring semester. Accepted students will have until 4:00 pm on January 7, 2025 to withdraw or the full course fee becomes non-refundable.

Belize Application Print single sided

Belize

Given the cultural commitment for environmental protection, lack of language barrier, and ecological diversity, Belize provides a fantastic international location for biodiversity education. The country of Belize is located on the eastern coast of Central America with Mexico to its north. While thick jungles are found on the country’s western side, the Caribbean Sea acts as an eastern border, home to the Belize Barrier Reef. These tropical rain forests and pristine beaches have led to Belize becoming one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations.

To learn more about Belize, visit https://www.travelbelize.org/