North Carolina State University is offering a two-week study abroad field program in Conservation Biology in The Bahamas July 5-20, 2013. The six credit-hour program is directed by Drs. Brian Langerhans and Nils Peterson, and is open to students from any university or college. The program is aimed toward upper-level undergraduate students and comprises two courses: BIO 495 Ecological and Evolutionary Dimensions of Conservation Biology in The Bahamas, and FW 495 Human Dimensions of Conservation Biology in The Bahamas. The program is centered on Andros Island - a large and sparsely populated Caribbean island - and focuses on three critical aquatic habitats: coral reefs, tidal creeks, and blue holes. Andros offers an ideal opportunity for students to explore biodiversity and conservation, with the worlds third largest coral reef system, over 100 shallow, oligotrophic tidal creeks, and over 300 unique water-filled caves called blue holes. Further, students can experience first-hand the impacts of human activities on natural ecosystems, as they will conduct field work in both heavily impacted localities, as well as remote, pristine environments. The courses cover both science and policy, emphasizing hands-on research as a large component of the program. Students conduct original research projects in small teams in the field; one project from the last course resulted in a peer-reviewed publication in the journal Evolutionary Ecology. Through a combination of field trips, classroom and laboratory work, guest speakers, and group research projects, students will: 1) learn fundamental concepts regarding ecological and evolutionary processes operating within the three primary aquatic ecosystems in the Bahamas, 2) evaluate the importance, procedures, and scientific foundations for conservation and management initiatives in the Bahamas, and 3) learn field-based research methods and techniques. Apply online at http://studyabroad.ncsu.edu by February 8, 2013. Find further information about the program at http://gambusia.zo.ncsu.edu/bahamas.html. Note that the program is limited to 20 students.
