In partnership with the University of Wisconsin, Ceiba offers world-class study abroad programs that take advantage of our unparalleled access to pristine tropical sites, and provide you an opportunity to immerse yourself in our ongoing projects. Rather than reading about conservation in a textbook, or learning about wildlife through videos, you’ll lend a hand to active conservation programs, and come face to face with plants and animals in the field. Get out from behind your screens and into the real world of forests and oceans! Past students will tell you that their time on a Ceiba field course was a life-changing experience; we invite you to join us and see for yourself!
Explore the most biodiverse site on Earth deep in the Amazon, discover the world-famous Galapagos Islands, share stories with host families, join ongoing conservation and research projects, and follow your passion during an applied internship!
Ceiba’s flagship study abroad program, the Tropical Conservation Semester, leads students on an educational adventure through the dramatic beauty of Ecuador. Intensive explorations include the lofty Andes mountains, the pristineAmazon rainforest, and the world-famous Galapagos Islands! Come gain hands-on experience in Ceiba’s active conservation programs, plan and conduct your own field research projects, all while learning marine biology and terrestrial ecology, studying Spanish, and living in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. The program is fully accredited by the University of Wisconsin for students from any US or Canadian institution (16 honors credits).
Live the island life surrounded by a living laboratory of coral reefs, mangroves, and sea grass beds, with the Belizean Barrier Reef a 50-foot swim from your cabin!
During this new Coral Reef Ecology program you will spend two weeks snorkeling the second largest barrier reef in the world, off the coast of Belize. Crystal clear water, a classroom by the ocean, and incredible underwater diversity make this location ideal for learning about the marine environment. Study the ecology and conservation of fish, corals, sponges, and reef ecosystems during a pre-departure online course, then put your knowledge into practice on a remote Caribbean island in the middle of a marine reserve! Marine ecology and conservation is one of the hottest topics on the planet, and this is your chance to learn more, get involved, and gain valuable skills.
"I loved the service component of this trip. After learning about all of the problems with water quality in Ecuador, it felt good to be a part of the solution." - Kaitlynn H.
Water quality is rapidly emerging as one the most pressing environmental concerns facing the planet in the 21st century. The Water For Life course on the coast of Ecuador highlights the interconnections between human use of water resources and health. You will examine the sustainability of land and water management practices in a rural area of coastal Ecuador where people rely on rivers for their water needs. Students sample local rivers, participate in assessments of the water-related health risks in local water supplies, and conduct participatory planning of strategies that will increase sustainability and reduce the risk of water-borne diseases. Through this program you will gain skills directly applicable to solving the global water quality crisis while providing tangible services to rural communities. Please note, this program is only available to University of Wisconsin students.
"I could not have asked for a better experience. As a water quality intern, I took river samples and worked on community education to promote clean water. I learned so much, and was surrounded by an incredibly supportive community." - Becca R.
Ceiba’s Conservation Internships program offers students an unparalleled opportunity to contribute their energy to ongoing habitat protection, environmental education and community development programs. Gain valuable skills that will help in your professional future –like camera trapping, water quality sampling, wildlife demographics research, reforestation and agroforestry, and community-based environmental education — while assisting projects that are making a real difference in Ecuador. Interns choose from a variety of Ceiba projects, at the Lalo Loor Dry Forest or in the coastal communities of Tabuga and Camarones.