2011 Short-Term Study Opportunities

International Programs and Services

Discovery Bay, Jamaica

2011 Maymester Study Abroad Opportunity

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MSCI 477 Ecology of Coral Reef, Discovery Bay, Jamaica

The annual migration of students interested in coral reef ecology is an opportunity students and faculty from CCU and several other institutions look forward to as they head for Discovery Bay, Jamaica. Coral Reef Ecology is an introduction to the principles of organization, structure, function, productivity and diversity of coral reef ecosystems. This course is implemented as a "research travel" opportunity for marine science majors/minors. Also, this course does not require SCUBA certification but it is highly recommended.

No application was found for this program.

Preliminary Itinerary

May 12	Travel to Discovery Bay
May 13-14	Group dive & finding research sites
May 15	Field Trip: Dunn's River Falls
May 16-18	Research & observational dives, lectures and discussions
May 19	Field trip: Rio Bueno
May 20-21	Research & observational dives
May 22	Research & night dive
May 23	Discussion of reef models-integrated functions
May 24	Field trip: Ocho Rios or Negril
May 25-26	Research & observational dives, group dive, night dive
May 27	Data analysis and graphics
May 28	Group dive & dairy bull project
May 29	Free day & group dive
May 30	Travel to Myrtle Beach

Meet This Program's Leaders

Dr. Erin Burge
Assistant Professor, Marine Science

Erin Burge has taught the Jamaica coral reef ecology class since 2007. His research interests include a wide range of questions relating to how marine organisms respond to environmental change, the role that human activities play in coral reef health, and tropical fish community ecology.

E-mail: eburge@coastal.edu

"Maymester in Jamaica was the best class I took at Coastal. If you like SCUBA diving and learning about marine life TAKE THIS CLASS! The research I did in Jamaica got me into graduate school studying coral reefs for my masters."

Dr. Eric Koepfler
Professor, Marine Science

Dr. Keopfler has had extensive experience in leading student study abroad programs, in both this program and in past programs to Costa Rica.

E-mail: eric@coastal.edu

Frequently Asked Questions:

When is the deadline for application?

The priority deadline for application to this program is Friday, November 5, 2010.

When does this program take place?

This program takes place from May 12-30, 2011.

What is the cost of this study abroad program?

This program's cost is $3,350, which includes:

17 nights of lodging abroad
All meals
International air and local transportation
Field trips
Travel insurance

Students may take MSCI 477: Ecology of Coral Reefs and/or MSCI 499: Directed Undergraduate Research. Tuition per 3 credit-hour course will be $810.

When are payments due for the program?

Deposit	$500 due with application
1st Payment	Dec 10, 2010- 1/3 of remaining balance
2nd Payment	Jan 10, 2011- 1/3 of remaining balance
3rd Payment	Feb 10, 2011- Remaining balance

How many credit hours can I complete during this program?

The expedition provides an upper level lecture course (3 credits) and a research project (3 credits) that can also be a senior thesis. The course offered is MSCI 477: Ecology of Coral Reefs, a three credit hour course. The research course is MSCI 499: Directed Undergraduate Research (3 credits).

Does this course/program satisfy core curriculum requirements?

This program does not currently satisfy core curriculum requirements.

Are scholarships or financial aid available for this program?

Graduates of Horry County high schools are encouraged to apply for the Horry County Higher Education Commission International Awareness Award ($1,000 - $2,000 per award available). To determine whether you have availability for other financial aid during this study period, please see your Financial Aid Counselor in Kingston Hall.

Are there any prerequisites for this study?

The prerequisite for each of these courses is instructor approval.

Do I need vaccinations to participate?

Coastal Carolina University adheres to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations. Please visit the website (http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/) for information regarding your particular destination.

What are the physical demands of this program?

It is highly recommended that students be SCUBA certified. Basic or open-water certification is sufficient. Students should be able to safely work on and in the water, be capable of lifting and carrying full SCUBA equipment and assisting with boat anchoring, and be able to hike 1-2 miles in the mountains in tropical heat.

For More Information, Please Contact:
The Office of International Programs & Services
Mr. Geoffrey Parsons, M.Ed.
Director, International Programs & Services
843-349-2054 / parsons@coastal.edu

Ms. Lori Patterson, M.P.S.
Coordinator/Advisor, Study Abroad
843-349-2684 / lori@coastal.edu
Singleton Building 119

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