Tropical Ecology

Take part in a unique study abroad opportunity in Costa Rica during Spring Break. Explore tropical ecosystems, engage in hands-on fieldwork, and earn transferrable credits to the University of California and California State University systems. Classes can be taken as Pass/No Pass. Also, don't let financial concerns hold you back. There are plenty of scholarships available - we’re here to help make this experience possible for you!

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Study Tropical Ecology in Costa Rica

Travel to one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and earn college credit while exploring the lush ecosystems of Costa Rica.

Experience a hands-on tropical ecology course - Experience a hands-on tropical ecology course - Learn about rainforest species, ecosystems, and conservation through an engaging online lecture (BIO 030) and/or a field-based lab (BIO 030L or BIO 031L). The lab meets monthly on campus during Spring semester and in Costa Rica during Spring Break.
Immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s natural beauty - Hike through tropical rainforests, walk high above the canopy on sky bridges, and snorkel in crystal-clear coastal waters teeming with marine life.
Conduct real ecological research in the field - Gain valuable fieldwork experience using tools and methods that professional ecologists apply to study tropical environments.
Meet scientists and conservation experts - Connect with local researchers and gain insight into the challenges and innovations in preserving biodiversity.
Earn transferrable college credit - Courses meet UC and CSU Natural Sciences with Lab requirements and can be taken for Pass/No Pass.

Classes Offered — Spring 2026

BIO 030 – Tropical Ecology (3.0 Lecture Units) Offered Online, Spring 2026

Discover the amazing diversity of life in tropical environments. Explore rainforest species and ecosystems, their ecological roles, and conservation importance. This course may be taken with or without BIO 030L.

BIO 030L – Tropical Ecology Lab (1.0 Lab Unit) Offered in Costa Rica during Spring Break 2026

In this introductory level laboratory class, students travel to Costa Rica over Spring break to carry out research methods that ecologists use to observe and investigate tropical ecosystems. As accommodations are in rustic bunkhouses, previous camping experience is recommended. This lab course must be taken with, or after BIO 030, Tropical Ecology.

BIO 031L – Tropical Ecology Field Lab (1.0 Lab Unit) Offered in Costa Rica during Spring Break 2026 Students who are not enrolled in BIO 030 may take this lab. It includes the same content as BIO 030L and provides a stand-alone field experience.

Take one or both of the following combinations:

BIO 030 (online lecture) + BIO 030L (field lab)
BIO 031L (field lab only)

Brochure

Discover the wonders of Costa Rica this Spring Break through a unique study abroad program that combines immersive fieldwork with academic credit.

Learn more in our event brochure

Program Costs

Total Trip Cost: $3,514

Includes airfare, lodging, most meals, in-country transportation, entrance fees, and all scheduled activities.

Requirements: A valid passport is required.

Scholarships

Financial assistance is available! Scholarships will be awarded based on financial need and academic merit. Recipients will be asked to share about their experience after returning.

Apply for a scholarship.

Application Deadline: November 7, 2025