We’re currently having a technical issue with course information displaying properly on our program webpages. We're sorry for the inconvenience and hope to have this fixed ASAP!

Quito, Ecuador

Summer - Environmental Studies

Study Abroad
Length:
Summer

At a Glance

Housing:

Homestay

Credits:

6 to 9 per Summer

Language of Instruction:

English, Spanish

Language Prerequisites:

None

Visa Required:

Maybe

About the Program

This program allows you to study issues of environmental management and preservation, while exploring Ecuador’s rich ecology. You focus on Ecosystems, Conservation, and Public Policy while also improving your Spanish language skills. During the first four weeks of the program, you will be based in Quito, taking courses at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), a private university located in the Quiteño suburb of Cumbayá . You'll then spend the remaining three weeks on San Cristóbal in the Galápagos Islands, studying at USFQ’s remote campus, the Galápagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences (GAIAS).

Background Image Mask
Enjoy Extensive Course-Related Trips

Hike in the Amazon Rain Forest with a local guide.

Background Image Mask
Live in a Homestay

You’ll have a private room in the home of a family or a señora in Quito.

Background Image Mask
Improve Your Spanish Language Skills

Enroll in a three-credit Spanish language course.

Background Image Mask
On-Site Staff

On-site staff work with you to answer any questions.

Program Advisor

This person does not have a headshot photo

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

Quito city among the mountains

Why Quito?

Although Ecuador is only about the size of Colorado, it is one of the most ecologically diverse countries on the planet. Four ecoregions—the Amazon basin, the high Andes, the coastal plain, and the Galápagos Islands—offer a wealth of flora and fauna that attract biologists, botanists, and environmentalists from around the world. In addition to the country’s natural riches, Quito is an architectural jewel known for the warmth and hospitality of its residents.

Learn More About Quito

Get to Know Your New City

Background Image Mask
Stand on the Equator

Travel via bus and stand at the middle of the Earth.

Background Image Mask
Climb a Volcano

Trek to the top of Volcano Pichincha just outside the city.

Background Image Mask
Try Authentic, Local Cuisine

Your taste buds will thank you.

Background Image Mask
Explore and Unwind in Itchimbia Park

This hilltop park is home to Quito's cultural center.

The Student Experience

View All Blogs

Housing

four people including one holding a dog standing in front of a home near bushes
  • Homestay

Homestay

You have a private, furnished room in the home of a family or a señora in Quito & Galapagos Islands. Homestay hosts provide two meals daily. You will be provided all of your bed linens and towels, and laundry is provided too.

Academics

Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. 

Our world-class professors and course options enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class. 

Partner Institution

a student posing with the USFQ GAIAS sign in front of their building
  • The Galápagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences

The Galápagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences

The Galápagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences (GAIAS) is a remote campus of the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) that was established to further efforts in conservation and sustainable development in the Galápagos Islands. As a world-class academic and research institution, GAIAS attracts both local and international students and scholars from around the world.

Visit Website

Courses

You have the option of enrolling in 6 to 9 credits for this program. 

  • Choose between a Spanish course or Ecuadorian Ecosystems (3 credits each). These courses are taught in Quito. 
  • All students will take Environmental Issues  (3 credits each). This course is taught in the Galapagos.
  • All Environmental Studies courses are taught in English, and previous Spanish study is not required. (Note that taking 9 credits will bring an extra academic fee - please see the "Program Fees" section below for details).

NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.

PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Learn More
passport stamps and stickers inside of passport books

Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Quito, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

students swimming in Las Grietas on Isla San Santa Cruz

Galápagos Islands

4 Days Fall, Spring, & Summer

Explore the ecological diversity of the Galápagos Islands, go snorkeling, and learn how to identify local flora and fauna.

A person wearing traditional Otavalo wear (white shirt, shawl, and skirt) sits with a child wearing a "Keep Calm and Rock On" t-shirt. They are surrounded by handmade quilts and are smiling.

Otavalo, Imbabura

1 Day Fall, Spring & Summer

Visit one of the most touristic regions in Ecuador. See a beautiful waterfall, volcano crater, and the famous indigenous Otavalo Market. Explore this largely indigenous town where residents are famous for weaving textiles. The “Plaza de los Ponchos” in Otavalo...

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

Summer 2024

Tuition
$
6,980
Housing
$
2,235
Insurance
$
135
Total
$
9,350

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

Learn More
Two students snorkel in the ocean.

About the IES Abroad Center

The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad. 

The IES Abroad Quito & Galápagos Islands Center is housed in a modern building near the financial district in Quito. Whether you’re walking through the city’s largest historic park, La Parque Carolina, or looking for a place to study with friends, the Center is your study abroad hub.  

 

Orientation

Start at Home
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and the city.
Arrive in Quito
Orientation continues when you arrive onsite with activities focusing on adjusting to Qutio. Detailed information about other important topics is also covered.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore and discover Quito before classes start to help you feel at home in your new environment.
Prepare to Learn
Feel prepared to begin classes with practical lessons, activities designed to help you learn your way around the area, and support from our dedicated student staff.
Settle In
Orientation continues throughout the semester with field trips allowing you to both further sample elements of Ecuadorian culture and get to know the other students.

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

Background Image Mask
CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

Background Image Mask
24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

Background Image Mask
Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

Background Image Mask
Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

Background Image Mask
TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

Background Image Mask
Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Program Dates

Summer 2024

Program Dates:

June 01 - July 20

Application Deadline:

Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age 
  • In good standing at your home school 
  • 2.5 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
three students standing in front of fair table with IES Abroad catalogs

The Student Experience

How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

Apply Now
two students laughing while hugging