Study Abroad
Students viewed rainforest flora and fauna, visited research stations to see rainforest ecologists at work, viewed the tropical canopy, and experienced the culture of Costa Rica. Recently, students returned from a Galapagos study abroad where they participated in a research study on giant tortoises. The Department hopes to make similar study abroad experiences available each year.
The College of Sciences offers students a scientific education to meet the needs of the 21st century, allowing them to compete for a variety of careers in an increasingly complex and evolving world.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Organization for Tropical Studies
Auburn University at Montgomery is now the academic home for the Organization of Tropical Studies. The Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS) is a non-profit consortium of nearly sixty universities, colleges, and research institutions worldwide, with operations in three countries and research stations and education programs in Costa Rica and South Africa. For the last half century OTS has been the world’s leading institution in the study of tropical biology, with more than 360 courses in tropical ecology, conservation and global health and over 8000 students trained, including many of the world’s leading tropical ecologists. OTS field-based education programs inspire and prepare the next generation of change agents, critical thinkers, scientists and practitioners on their paths to discovery and global leadership. As an OTS student you will be immersed in tropical ecosystems, explore biodiversity first hand, connect with diverse communities and cultures and experience the wonder of the tropics. OTS will equip you to work effectively in today’s interconnected world and become a solution-maker for the future.
Study abroad short courses, summers or semesters are routinely offered through our membership in the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS). From time to time, the department may sponsor other study abroad field experiences.
As OTS’s academic home, AUM students are eligible for reduced tuition rates and can earn full scholarships.
For questions and help with applications contact Dr. Chelsea Ward at cward3@aum.edu.
Semester Courses
Fall and Spring Semester abroad courses focusing on scientific ecology complemented by a strong foundation in social, political, economic, and scientific aspects of resource management. There are 3 semester long courses offered: South African Ecology and Conservation, Costa Rica Tropical Diseases, Environmental Change & Human Health, and Costa Rica Tropical Biology on a Changing Planet.
Summer Courses
Summer abroad courses include Costa Rica Tropical Biology Course and South Africa Global Health Issues Course.
Other Opportunities
Department of Biology and Environmental Science regularly takes students to Costa Rica for a rainforest ecology study abroad.
Students viewed rainforest flora and fauna, visited research stations to see rainforest ecologists at work, viewed the tropical canopy, and experienced the culture of Costa Rica. Students have also studied abroad in the Galapagos where they participated in a research study on giant tortoises and Madagascar. The Department hopes to make similar study abroad experiences available each year.
For more information on Study Abroad please visit The Office of Global Initiatives.
