HHP offering study abroad program in Antarctica

February 23, 2009

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The department of tourism, recreation and sport management at the University of Florida is offering students a rare opportunity to study abroad in Antarctica, the coldest, driest, highest, quietest, most remote and least understood continent on Earth.

“Very few opportunities exist for college students to engage in experiential education in Antarctica,” said Brijesh Thapa, associate professor in the department. “What greater way is there to learn about Antarctica than taking a course facilitated by UF and the International Antarctic Centre and to actually be in Antarctica?”

Participants will earn six credits by taking an online course during the fall 2009 semester followed by spending 13 days exploring the Antarctic peninsula, Tierra del Fuego and the Southern Ocean. The in-country field trip program dates are Dec. 16-30, 2009, allowing two days for travel.

The program takes place aboard an expedition cruise and offers the chance to see vast glaciers flowing into the sea, penguin colonies, whales and orcas and massive icebergs. Three days will be spent in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina.

Students will explore the history, marine and terrestrial biology, geology and climate of these Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions. Special attention will be given to contemporary legal, psychological and anthropological aspects of human activity in the region, conservation of ecosystems and sustainable use of natural resources.

The application deadline is March 31. The program fee is $8,976 for undergraduates and $9,666 for graduates. This price will increase after April 30. This price includes tuition for six credits, all accommodations, most meals, domestic land and sea transportation, lectures and seminars, activities and excursions, cultural events, international health insurance and emergency medical assistance. It does not include airfare, lunches, additional personal travel and personal expenses.

A $250, nonrefundable deposit toward the total cost of the program is required at the time of application. The remaining fees are due no later than 30 days prior to departure. Students needing financial aid should apply through UF Student Financial Affairs. They may defer payment until the disbursement of their financial aid.

There are 10 to 12 spots open. Students can apply online at www.abroad.ufic.ufl.edu.