Everyone from aspiring environmentalists and marine biologists to future entrepreneurs will find no better untouched place to unleash their potential. Embrace the rich Bahamian culture and develop crucial intercultural skills by engaging with our warm, welcoming community. Unlock your personal growth in our serene surroundings, fostering resilience and independence that lasts a lifetime. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Join us on a Bahamian adventure and transform your academic journey into an unforgettable experience!
A History of Study Abroad Successes
Since 2007, we have hosted study abroad students and cultural exchange students from a variety of academic institutions. This collaboration has involved more than 200 students who have participated in week long courses and projects designed to enhance and sustain the communities of South Andros Island. Students earn credits in their subject matter under the leadership and guidance of their professors. We continuously work to expand our facility which acts as a field station with an academic focus, bringing additional course work and new project opportunities.
Academic Institutions
Numerous renowned academic institutions have entrusted their students to our exceptional study abroad program. We’re proud to be recognized for the remarkable and inspiring opportunities we offer. Some of these institutions include:
- University of Vermont (Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources)
- Christopher Newport University
- Susquehanna University
- San Jose State University
- Tufts University
- Lesley University
- Rock Point School
Program Overview
The study abroad program offers students a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and ecological diversity of one of the most stunning islands in the Bahamas for 1-2 weeks, with options to extend their stay, especially during the summer months. Participants engage in hands-on learning experiences, work on meaningful conservation projects, and develop a deeper understanding of the complexities of life in the Bahamas. Based on the particular program you choose, the following highlights are some of the activities you may participate in:
Field experiences: Students will visit various ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, to observe and study the diverse flora and fauna of the island. They will learn about the ecological processes that sustain these habitats and the challenges they face due to climate change and human activities.
Coral nurseries: Participants will gain practical experience in building and maintaining coral nurseries, learning about coral propagation techniques and the importance of these nurseries in supporting reef recovery and resilience.
Mangrove restoration: Students will participate in mangrove planting and restoration efforts, understanding the crucial role of mangroves in coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.
Coastal awareness and conservation: The program will include lessons and field trips focusing on coastal management, marine protected areas, and strategies for mitigating the impacts of tourism and development on coastal ecosystems.
Sustainable tourism and business ethics: Students will learn about the principles of sustainable tourism and how businesses can implement environmentally and socially responsible practices. They will also explore the challenges and opportunities associated with balancing economic development and environmental protection in the Bahamas.
Research projects: Students will have the opportunity to participate in ongoing research projects, such as monitoring coral reef health, assessing the impacts of invasive species, or studying the behavior and distribution of marine species.
Environmental policy and governance: The program will introduce students to the various policies, regulations, and organizations that govern environmental conservation in the Bahamas, providing insights into how effective policy-making can contribute to sustainable development.
Cultural immersion: Participants will engage with local communities, learning about their traditions, history, and livelihoods, as well as the challenges they face in preserving their cultural heritage and the natural environment.
Networking and collaboration: Students will have the chance to interact with local researchers, conservationists, and policymakers, fostering connections that can lead to future collaborations and career opportunities.
Extended stays and internships: Students who wish to further their learning and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts can opt for extended stays or internships, especially during the summer months, to gain more in-depth experience and develop their skills.
Fields of Study
The study abroad program on South Andros Island can benefit a wide range of students. This interdisciplinary program is ideal for students pursuing studies in many fields. Previous and current students have actively engaged in a diverse number of areas such as those listed below. Please note that we remain open to exploring opportunities in other fields as well.
- Marine biology and coastal biodiversity: Students could study the diverse marine life and coastal ecosystems of the Bahamas, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. They could learn about conservation efforts, including protecting endangered species and restoring damaged habitats.
- Underwater cinematography: Students could learn the art of underwater filming and produce documentaries on the marine life and ecosystems of the Bahamas.
- Nature photography: Students could capture the natural beauty of the Bahamas through photography and learn about the importance of conservation efforts in preserving the island’s natural resources.
- Education: Students could learn about the education system in the Bahamas and participate in teaching programs in local schools.
- Bush medicine: Students could learn about traditional medicine practices in the Bahamas and the importance of preserving these practices.
- Service learning: Students could participate in community service projects, such as beach cleanups, habitat restoration, or community gardens.
- Sustainable water resources: Students could learn about the importance of sustainable water management practices in the Bahamas and how to apply these practices in other parts of the world.
- Elementary education internship and library science: Students could participate in internships at local schools and libraries and learn about education and library systems in the Bahamas.
- Psychology: Students deepen their understanding of human behavior, mental health, social interactions, coping mechanisms, and other areas in a unique setting. They can also gain a better understanding of themselves as well as contribute to the broader knowledge of mental health in remote communities.
- Beekeeping: Students could learn about beekeeping and its importance in sustaining agriculture and the ecosystem.
- Ornithology: Watch birds, explore their habits, study how island life affects them, and help protect them.
- Sustainable agriculture, Socially Engaged Ecological Design (SEED), Place-based environmental studies, hydroponic and aquaponic farming, environmental stewardship, food product safety and marketing: Students could learn about sustainable agriculture practices and how to create environmentally conscious food products, Bahamian island ecosystems, and innovative soil-free farming methods through hands-on activities.
- Waste management, environmental impact, and business ethics: Students could learn about waste management practices and the environmental impact of businesses in the Bahamas and around the world.
- Marine ecology: Students could learn about the ecology of the marine environment and how it affects the surrounding ecosystems.
- Entrepreneurship: Students learn valuable lessons as they discover unique challenges faced by island businesses. Immersed in a small, interconnected economy, students will learn from local entrepreneurs who create innovative solutions and adapt to limited resources. This hands-on experience, combined with mentorship from successful island entrepreneurs, will foster a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial spirit and inspire creative thinking in students.
- Business and business ethics: Within the context of a relatively small island community, students examine the delicate balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, learning how ethical decision-making is crucial for long-term success. By engaging with local businesses and community members, students will develop a strong foundation in ethical business practices that prioritize social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of the community.
Fields of Study
The study abroad program on South Andros Island can benefit a wide range of students. This interdisciplinary program is ideal for students pursuing studies in many fields. Previous and current students have actively engaged in a diverse number of areas such as those listed below. Please note that we remain open to exploring opportunities in other fields as well.
Marine biology and coastal biodiversity
Students could study the diverse marine life and coastal ecosystems of the Bahamas, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. They could learn about conservation efforts, including protecting endangered species and restoring damaged habitats.
Underwater cinematography
Students could learn the art of underwater filming and produce documentaries on the marine life and ecosystems of the Bahamas.
Elementary education and library science
Students could participate in internships at Bahamian schools and libraries to learn about education and library systems.
Education
Students could learn about the education system in the Bahamas and participate in teaching programs in local schools.
Bush medicine
Students could learn about traditional medicine practices in the Bahamas and the importance of preserving these practices.
Service learning
Students could participate in community service projects, such as beach cleanups, habitat restoration, or community gardens
Nature photography
Students could capture the natural beauty of the Bahamas through photography and learn about the importance of conservation efforts in preserving the island’s natural resources.
Sustainable water resource Management
Students could learn about The Bahamas water conservation practices and maintaining the availability and quality of water.
Psychology
Students deepen their understanding of human behavior, mental health, social interactions, and coping mechanisms in remote communities. They also gain a better understanding of themselves.
Beekeeping
Students could learn about beekeeping and its importance in sustaining agriculture and the ecosystem.
Ornithology
Watch birds, explore their habits, study how island life affects them, and help protect them.
Marine ecology
Students could learn about the ecology of the marine environment and how it affects the surrounding ecosystems.
Entrepreneurship
Students learn valuable lessons as they discover unique challenges faced by island businesses. Immersed in a small, interconnected economy, students will learn from local entrepreneurs who create innovative solutions and adapt to limited resources. This hands-on experience, combined with mentorship from successful island entrepreneurs, will foster a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial spirit and inspire creative thinking in students.
Business and business ethics
Within the context of a relatively small island community, students examine the delicate balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, learning how ethical decision-making is crucial for long-term success. By engaging with local businesses and community members, students will develop a strong foundation in ethical business practices that prioritize social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of the community.
Sustainable agriculture
Socially Engaged Ecological Design (SEED), place-based environmental studies, hydroponic and aquaponic farming, environmental stewardship, food product safety and marketing fall under this category. Students could learn about sustainable agriculture practices and how to create environmentally conscious food products, Bahamian island ecosystems, and innovative soil-free farming methods through hands-on activities.