Dominican Republic: Summer Field Study - 2026
BIO 250F: Dominican Republic - Expedition Biology
How does one know if a species is endangered? This experiential learning course will immerse you in the practice of animal conservation, by partnering with a grass roots environmental organizations as we collect real data on threatened species in the Dominican Republic, which will be used to determine their status. Students will learn about the threats to endemic animals and habitats first-hand and the role that history and culture plays in shaping animal conservation initiatives.
Program Details
- Program Leaders: Bobby Fokidis and Jay Pieczynski
- Program Location: Dominican Republic
- Tentative Travel Dates: Arrive May 12, 2026; Depart May 26, 2026
- Credit: 4 - Letter Grade
- Prerequisites: None – but preference and priority to BIO, MBIO, BMB, and ES majors
- Course Requirements: Field Report and Notes, Vlog, poster
- Anticipated Number of Students: 8-10
- Estimated Program Fee: $3,950
- Program Fee Includes: Roundtrip airfare from Orlando International Airport (MCO), tuition, housing, most meals/food (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), program administration, on-site activities, on-site transportation, and emergency insurance.
- Estimated Additional Costs: Passport $165, personal expenses $150, federal loan fees $0, books/course materials $0, and professional licensure/certification $0.
- Visa: Not required for U.S. citizens
- Special Notifications: All students will travel together to and from the Dominican Republic on the designated dates. Students who need to go home between the end of the semester and our departure date must return to Orlando and depart with the group on the departure date. This is an expedition-style field work experience. This program includes travel to some locations with more limited medical services. Students should be prepared for daily walking (and some more strenuous hiking). Accommodations will be split between hotels and camping at field sites. Students with dietary restrictions and food allergies must be mindful of limited accommodations when eating in local communities. Due to the nature of field work, schedules can be unpredictable, including timing of meals. Please contact IP for more information.
- * All dates are tentative and subject to change depending on the final number of students, final costs and other considerations.
- ** Estimated costs for all programs are based on anticipated numbers of students, current exchange rates and commercial airfares. Costs are subject to change. Final prices will always be communicated to accepted students before they commit to the program.
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