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Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

January Term - Marine Ecosystems

Study Abroad
Length:
Spring, January Term

At a Glance

Housing:

Homestay

Credits:

3 per Term

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

About the Program

Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, this spectacular archipelago, where Charles Darwin first formulated his theory of natural selection, will be your home as you study at the Galápagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences (GAIAS) on the island of San Cristóbal. This remote campus of the Universidad San Francisco de Quito was established to further efforts in conservation and sustainable development on the Galápagos Islands.

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The Galápagos Islands Will Be Your Classroom

Learn about the ecology of the marine habitats.

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Live with Local Residents

Live in a private room in a homestay with a family or señora.

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On-Site Staff

Our on-site staff are here to answer your questions.

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Individual Program Advisor

Your IES Abroad Advisor is your #1 resource for preparing to study abroad.

Program Advisor

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Sarah Fang

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

a cohort of students pose for a photo with the San Cristobal Galápagos sign

Why the Galápagos Islands?

As one of the most biologically diverse locations on the planet, the Galápagos Islands are the ideal location for students interested in Marine Ecology and Environmental Studies.

Learn More About the Galápagos Islands

Get to Know Your New City

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Explore Kicker Rock

Travel by boat to enjoy one of the best spots for snorkeling.

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See Turtles at a Breeding Center

Observe turtles in their native habitat.

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Snorkel with Sea Lions

Head to La Loberia beach and spend a day in the sun.

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Support from Quito

On-the-ground staff are available at the Center in Quito.

The Student Experience

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Housing

Galapagos Housing Homestay
  • Homestay

Homestay

In Quito and the Galápagos Islands you will live in a private room in a homestay with a family or señora who will help facilitate your language learning and integration into Ecuadorian society. Two meals are provided daily. WiFi is available in your homestay, but speed and connectivity are often limited in the Galápagos Islands. Laundry is also provided.

Academics