Study abroad is a great way to build life skills and gain a career advantage. FWCB faculty regularly teach international courses through CFANS or as a University Global Seminar. FWCB students can also register for related courses in other programs (Find more information on Study Abroad: Learning Abroad in Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology) . For information on courses to be offered in this academic year contact these offices: CFANS International Programs | UM Learning Abroad Center
Scholarships are available through the FWCB Department, the College (CFANS), and the University's Learning Abroad Center.
The following are some of these recent course offerings taught by FWCB faculty:
CFAN 3504 - Vertebrate Research Design and Field Survey Techniques (3 cr.)
This course provides students with a brief overview of Thailand's culture and conservation challenges and then focuses on applying a set of well-developed field survey and conservation tools. The course begins with a 2-day trip up Thailand's central waterway on a live-aboard barge designed for research and education. The class then travels to Thailand's premier conservation research site where a comfortable home base is available for daily field activities and a launching point for a wilderness trip into more remote parts of western Thailand. Many activities revolve around and contribute to a long-term tiger conservation project of which UM has been a principal partner. Students work with a team of three Thai biologists who are experts on tigers and field research. Specific activities include camera trapping techniques, prey assessment methods, and radio telemetry approaches to the study of large mammals.
CFAN 3522 - Sustainable Akumal: Turtles, Tourists, Cenotes, and Coral Reefs
The Mexican Caribbean, particularly the Riviera Maya, has experienced 70 times an increase in tourism over the past 30 years. This rapid increase in tourism has disrupted the nesting turtles as well as other plants and animals native to this area.
This program explores the complex problems of the impact of tourism and development on coral reefs, marine life, water quality, and other habitats. Students learn about responsible tourism and sustainable development through field-based projects and experiencing the water, land, flora, and fauna firsthand. You will learn and experience coastal and marine ecology in the context of tourism and development. Observe sea turtles in their habitat while working on beach habitat restoration. Test the water quality in lagoons and cenotes to understand complex issues surrounding groundwater and freshwater in this region. Experience Mexican history and culture by visiting Mayan ruins and spending time in local communities. Apply by October 1.