Mexico Biology
Summer 2008

Program Description:
This program is research based and funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Over the course of 10 to 14 days, students are involved in the collection of original scientific data on the ecology and physiology of plants of the dry deciduous forests of the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. Requirements to enroll in this program are the same as for a directed study in biology (i.e. 3.0 GPA and upper level biology credit). Research is done in collaboration with in a major research center in the area- the CICY, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán.

Program Dates:
The time spent abroad is usually between 10 and 14 days.  Actual travel dates may vary from year to year. In the past, travel has been in the Yucatan ‘dry season’ (i.e. leaving shortly after finals in spring, around May 10). But future travel dates may be moved to mid June to incorporate rainy season data.

Course Descriptions:
Typically, over the spring semester prior to travel to Mexico students enroll in 1 cr. hr. BIOL 4400, during which time they develop research proposals. Toward the end of spring, once their proposals have been approved, they enroll in the study abroad course for 3 cr. hr. (SSA 4400), in order to travel to Mexico.

Program Costs:
Most major costs such as airfare, lodging, and meals, are covered by the NSF grant.  

Application Deadline:

• Interested students should contact Dr. Paula C. Jackson, preferably starting in fall semester.

Contact for more Information:
Paula Jackson
Department of Biology & Physics
770-423-6655
pjackson@kennesaw.edu