SIT Ecuador: Comparative Ecology and Conservation
- Location: Quito, Ecuador
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Language of Instruction: Spanish
- Class Eligibility: Juniors
Introduction
The capital of Ecuador, San Francisco de Quito (Quito) is surrounded by Mount Pichincha, and just about 20 miles away from the Equator. Declared by UNESCO in 1978 the First Cultural Patrimony of Humanity, Quito is the home of 2 million people. Quito offers a mix of Spanish and indigenous traditions creating a vibrant environment with a small city atmosphere. The city also has beautifully preserved colonial architecture all over that contrast with the more contemporary buildings. Students will be able to experience the stratified economic conditions as they see the colonial and modern architecture along the rich and poor neighborhoods.
- Visa:
Required. Non-US citizens should consult with SIT and the Office of International Student Support before applying to the program.
Additional Visa Information - Fees: Students pay Haverford tuition to Haverford. Haverford is responsible for making tuition payment to SIT. Students are responsible for paying room and board costs directly to SIT.
Academic Overview
Requirements
Previous college-level coursework and/or other preparation in environmental studies, ecology, biology, or related fields. Since students are expected to have attained a usable level of language proficiency, one course beyond intermediate Spanish or its equivalent of four recent semesters of Spanish is required. It is preferred that students be enrolled in a Spanish course the semester before they are expected to study abroad.
Academic Credit
Each semester, students must carry a minimum of 15 credit hours, which equals 4 credits at Haverford. All SIT Comparative Ecology and Conservation students are required to take a 3 credit language for the natural science course (different levels), which will help with reading professional scientific literature. Major, minor, and concentration transfer credit will only be granted for courses in which students received a grade of a C or above. Students will receive natural science, social science, and humanities divisional credit.
Curriculum
Required Courses:
- Conservation and Sustainability Practices in Ecuador
- Comparative Tropical Ecology
- Spanish for the Natural Sciences
- Environmental Research Methods and Ethics
- Independent Study Project
Course Highlights
Ecology, Natural Sciences, Spanish
Note: Changes occur frequently. Students are responsible for finding the classes they need and consulting the official site of the institution.
Non-Academic Overview
Orientation
During the first week of the program topics such as academics, culture, and health and safety are discussed. Through group discussions, readings, and participatory methods, students are introduced to the host country and develop skills for successful cross-cultural communication.
Number of Students
20-30
Housing/Meal Plans
Homestay only. While on excursions, accommodations can include hostels, field camps, reserve lodges, and boats.
Haverford students may not opt for independent off-campus housing – that is, housing not arranged by the program.
Notes
Additional Resources
- Support for LGTBQIA+ Students
- SIT Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Resources
- Mental Health & Self Care While Abroad
- Diversity Abroad
Options
- Semester
Dates
- Semester I: Early September - mid-December
- Semester II: Early February - mid-May
Application Deadlines
- Semester I: March 1
- Semester II: October 1