During the program in Quito, Ecuador and Cuzco, Peru participants will be immersed in the dramatic geography and rich history of the Andes, and in the culture of two of Latin America’s most intriguing societies. Students on the program will analyze critical economic and environmental issues through coursework and a series of related excursions. Quito and Cuzco are ideal locations, Andean cities with beautiful settings and excellent access to many of the most magnificent sites in Latin America. In Quito the program is based at the Andean Center for Latin American Studies (ACLAS), with its excellent program of Spanish instruction. In Cuzco, the program is based at the Centro Tinku.
Examines the roles of diversity and adaptation in the natural and human spheres by examining cases such as the Galapagos Islands and Darwin's reaction to them, the adaptation of pre-Columbian cultures to the Peruvian environment, and present-day indigenous adaptation to encroaching modernity.
ECON 136/436-99 E/merging Economies and Political StressProvides the information and tools necessary for understanding the present economic situation of Ecuador and Peru. These include the economic history of the countries, the major economic theories that have influenced economic policy in Latin America, and the impact of Neoliberalism, Globalization, high raw materials prices and the recent move toward the left.
ENV 250-99 Conservation of Biodiversity in Ecuador and PeruExamines potential conservation strategies to protect the highly diverse ecosystems of Ecuador and Peru. Builds on BIDS 232 by exploring in greater detail the ecological explanations for high diversity communities and applying ecological theory to the management of natural resources.
Spanish Language and Spanish ConversationStudents will be tested and placed at an appropriate level of instruction at the beginning of the program. Advanced students may select a course in Latin American literature or Quechua (an indigenous) language.
This program would be of particular interest to students of Latin American studies, environmental studies, economics, biology and Spanish language and culture.
This program is open to Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors in good academic and social standing with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and who have completed at least one course in college-level Spanish. Students who have not completed a course in Spanish must successfully complete (with a C- or better) in the fall semester before the program. More advanced language study is strongly recommended. Shortly after arrival, students will be tested to determine the appropriate language, conversation, or literature class. Due to the challenging nature of study abroad, student academic and disciplinary records will be carefully screened.
Students will be housed with local host families in Quito and in a dormitory in Cuzco. During excursions the group will be housed in hotels.
There are a variety of excursions that take place as part of this program. In the past, program participants have visited the Galapagos Islands as part of their study of Darwin and the processes of selection and adaptation. While in Quito, students have explored the Amazon rainforest and have visited market towns, the Cotopaxi volcano and nature reserves. While in Cuzco, the group has explored many of the major sites of the Inca Empire, including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.
Students will be charged standard HWS tuition, room and board fees and a $500 administrative fee. This will cover credit for a four-course semester, class-related excursions and field trips, and homestays with full board. Additional expenses not covered include airfare, books and personal expenses (laundry, entertainment, ground transportation and independent travel). We estimate airfare for this program at $900-$1200 from the East Coast and books at $200. It is difficult to give an accurate estimate of personal expenses because student spending habits differ considerably. We would suggest a minimum of $1000. However, students on a tight budget should be able to manage with less. If you are concerned about finances, we strongly encourage you to talk to the CGE staff who can offer information and advice based on your specific situation.
NOTE: The information contained in this brochure is subject to change. Please see the CGE for more information.
