Location:

Zanzibar, Tanzania, United Republic of

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

Program Overview

Program Description:

Examine coastal ecology and natural resource management in one of the most remarkable areas of the world: Zanzibar and the islands of the Western Indian Ocean. The region's geographic location and distinct ecological conditions allow students to study specific environmental topics, including tropical forest management and coral reef conservation, in a unique context. Through thematic coursework and direct field experience students are exposed to multiple sources of knowledge in order to better understand the dual imperatives of economic growth and environmental protection. Once the thriving hub of the East African caravan trade, Zanzibar's abundant natural resources today help promote its important tourism industry. Yet, tourism and other industries present serious challenges to the region's fragile ecosystems. In recent years, it has become increasingly apparent that the health and long-term viability of the region's coastal forests, coral reefs, and vulnerable fauna, such as indigenous flying foxes and Ader's duikers, will be severely threatened if not managed in a more sustainable way.

The interdisciplinary coursework in the Tanzania-Zanzibar: Coastal Ecology and Natural Resource Management program focuses on coastal ecology and natural resource management in the context of coastal Tanzania. Students examine the impact of human activity on the environment and the ways in which thoughtful and sustainable management of natural resources can serve both human and environmental interests. Students participate in a variety of research and cultural activities throughout the semester and learn from researchers, professionals, practitioners, and other development and conservation specialists. During the final month of the semester, students leverage their field study experience and research skills to conduct an Independent Study Project (ISP).

Please inquire for costs: Fees include tuition, full room and board, all field trips and related fares, health and accident insurance, and other direct program expenses. Participants pay for international airfare and domestic travel to the point of departure from the USA.

Setting Description:

The program consists of the following main phases: •Orientation followed by a two-week homestay in Stone Town during which students take Kiswahili language classes and attend lectures at the Marine Institute •A four-week period during which students participate in seminars and conduct field assignments as part of the Coastal Ecology and Natural Resource Management Seminar and the Field Study Seminar (this includes time at Pemba Island, Jozani Forest, and Chumbe Island) •One week at the University of Dar es Salaam for lectures at the university and a brief safari to Mikumi National Park •A four-week period during which students undertake an Independent Study Project (ISP). The ISP may focus on marine biodiversity, terrestrial ecology, issues in resource consumption, or socioeconomic factors in natural resource management. Each program phase exposes students to different perspectives on natural resource management and development through interactions with a variety of stakeholders

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

Please see our website for more information.