United States
- Spring
2 credits of Globe 4960B (Spring 2026)
Located in the Caribbean Sea, St. John, an island in the US Virgin Islands, is rich in biodiversity, including several native and endemic plant and animal species. Characterized by a sub-tropical climate, St. John’s marine and seashore ecosystems boast beautiful coral reefs that are home to more than 40 species of coral; seagrass beds where 3 of the 7 species of sea turtles (green, hawksbill, leatherback) can be seen; and mangrove forests home to diverse assemblages of sponges, crabs, fish, and lobsters. The terrestrial ecosystems and their native and endemic species on St. John are just as impressive – on an island a little smaller than the city of Ames, there are over 400 species of trees. The majority of these unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems on St. John are protected by the U.S. Virgin Islands National Park, which occupies approximately 66% of the island.
On this 10-day travel course, students will participate in hands-on learning experiences (e.g., snorkeling, hiking, restoration projects) in the diverse ecosystems of the US Virgin Islands. Students will experience the incredible biodiversity of the US Virgin Islands, learn about major challenges to ecosystem and biodiversity conservation and management, and participate in efforts to address those challenges in the US Virgin Islands. While in St. John, students will meet and engage with local stakeholders, including the University of the Virgin Islands, National Park Service, environmental non-governmental organizations, and local community members.
Pre-departure orientation in the fall before travel, followed by a half-semester course during spring 2026 semester.
Upcoming Informational Sessions:
- Wednesday, September 24th from 8:00 - 8:30 AM in Room 333, Science Hall II
- Wednesday, September 24th from 4:00 - 4:30 PM in Room 333, Science Hall II
This program was offered in January 2024 and 2025, and is tentatively scheduled for 2026.