Beginning in July 2005, FSU students will have the opportunity to take part in a three to four week program that takes place in the African nation of Madagascar, an island located off the southeastern coast of Africa. Madagascar is a country of extraordinary natural environments. Nearly the size of California, it is a living laboratory of biodiversity with almost 80% of its flora and fauna endemic to the island. Antanaravio, the capital, enjoys a temperate climate, but the island has a wide range of microclimates ranging from rain forests in the northeast to desert in the southwest. Students will have an opportunity to explore the biology, as well as cultural and ethnic aspects of this country.

Dates: Program dates for 2005 are July 6-27.

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Course Offerings: Students may register for BIOL 490 'Conservation Ecology and Ethnobotany of Madagascar'' (2 credits). The course will be taught by Linda Lyon in the Biology Dept. (301-687-4213). There will be an exploration of the ecology of the southern region of the island with a specific emphasis on the delicate balance between human needs and nature conservation/resource management. Students will also explore kinship and gender practices of various ethnic groups, cultural taboos and beliefs, and the use of plants for medicinal and ceremonial purposes.

Pictures: © Karl Lehmann Go to Webpage
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Costs: Costs will vary from year to year. In 2005, the overall program cost is approximately $3,000 per student. This covers housing, meals, ground and local transportation, field station fees, park guides, and international airfare. It does not include passport ($85), ISIC card ($22), or study abroad administrative fee ($150), nor any additional travel or personal expenses.

Accommodation: Students will be housed in hotels for some of the time, in local homes, and otherwise will be camping out in villages and in the rainforest. Details will be available from Dr. Lyon.

Links: Madagascar Images, PBS Information Site, PBS Nova Program on Madagascar, Madagascar Embassy

Program Coordinator:
Dr. Linda Lyon, Dept. of Biology
Tel: 301-687-4213

How to Apply: Come by the CIE to pick up an application form, or visit Dr. Lyon in the Biology Dept., 304 Compton Science Center. Students who wish to take part in the program must apply to the Center for International Education by 25 February.