Study Abroad in Honduras

Honduran Studies: The Search for Dolphins and Whales

Dates
May 17 – June 7, 2008

The Program
Few countries in the world can boast such clear turquoise water, pristine beaches, lush jungles and breathtaking mountains. Through the Honduran Studies Program, you will be able to explore this vibrant country and experience the warmth and hospitality of Hondurans.

Participants on the course will join Dr. Stan Kuczaj, chair of the Department of Psychology, in the study of wild dolphins in the beautiful waters surrounding the island of Utila, located off the northern coast of Honduras. Students will earn four credit hours in psychology while learning to record and analyze marine mammal sounds and behaviors, and will gain firsthand experience in the joys and frustrations associated with the field studies that focus on wild dolphin behavior.

During the trip, much of your time will be spent on the water looking for and observing marine mammals. Land-based activities will focus on analysis of the data obtained on boat trips. Free time will be available for exploring, snorkeling, and diving (the cost of diving and/or obtaining dive certification will be the student’s responsibility). The number of students will be limited by the size of our research boat. Therefore, students who are interested in participating should apply as soon as possible.

Credits
Students will earn four credit hours for participation in one of the courses listed below.

Undergraduate
PSY 444 (3 credit hours)/PSY 492 (1 credit hour)

Graduate
PSY 544 (3 credit hours)/PSY 691 (1 credit hour)

Fees
The price for undergraduates is $2,799 and $2,999 for graduates. (This includes tuition, fees, housing, group flight, ground transportation, and academic costs.  This does not include meals or spending money.)

Eligibility 
To qualify, undergraduate students must be in clear academic standing with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on at least 28 semester hours of college/university course work.  Graduate students must be in graduate standing. 

Proof of Citizenship
In order to board the aircraft, you will be required to present proof of citizenship in the form of a valid passport.  If you do no have a current passport, you will need to allow 10 weeks for processing.

Financial Aid
Students participating on the Honduras Studies program qualify for financial aid in the form of guaranteed student loans, summer Pell Grants, or applicable graduate assistantships.  Southern Miss students requiring financial aid should contact Frances Sudduth at the International Programs Office before requesting a Summer 2007 Study Abroad Financial Sid Application from the university’s Financial Aid Office.

Application Deadline
Completed applications with $200 deposit are due by March 26, 2008.  Balance of fees, less deposit, is due no later than April 2, 2008.  Acceptance for qualified participants is made on a first come, first serve basis, so students are encouraged to apply early.

For more information contact
The University of Southern Mississippi
International Programs
118 College Drive #10047
Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001
Phone: 601.266.4344
Email: studyabroad@usm.edu

click here for Honduras Studies: The Search for Dolphins and Whales application