Location:

Fairfax, United States

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

Program Overview

Program Description:

The Smithsonian-Mason Global Conservation Studies Program is proud to offer two 16-credit programs for undergraduates committed to the study of conservation, based at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute near the Shenandoah National Park in Front Royal, Virginia.

Each semester-long program, Applied Conservation Strategies and Ecology for Effective Conservation Practices, offers five integrated courses that include a practicum experience as well as classes focusing on conservation theory and applications. Applied Conservation Strategies focuses on the root causes of conservation issues and ways in which science informs management and policy. Ecology for Effective Conservation Practices addresses how ecological theory can be applied to the study of conservation and communication about threats to species.

Like a "study abroad" program, students live in residence at Smithsonian’s campus in Front Royal, Virginia. Through the academically intense curriculum of active learning, teamwork, hands-on experience, public communication, and case studies, students emerge from the Semester prepared for conservation-related professions and graduate study.

Setting Description:

Students reside at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia, where our new academic and dorm facilities will provide students with a state-of-the-art learning environment. The 3,200-acre conservation campus is nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains close to Shenandoah National Park, approximately an hour and a half from Washington DC.