Kenya: Sustainable Development in East Africa

Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences announces a study abroad field course to be offered in East Africa in Winter 2012. This course, centered on a five-week visit to Kenya, will expose students to critical issues in conservation and sustainability, with special reference to biological diversity, development, and community-based environmental efforts.

Academic content

This program is organized, directed and taught by Environmental Science Professors John Banks and Jim Gawel.

• TESC 303 Sustainable Development in East Africa - Study Abroad (12 credits)

Serves as an intensive examination of sustainable development concepts in Africa through a study abroad experience. Investigates agriculture, water resources management, and wildlife management, including scientific, social, political and economic viewpoints.

Program schedule

This 12-credit course will run the full Winter Quarter. The program begins on January 3rd and travel to Kenya will take place January 29 to March 3rd. On-campus preparation will precede the five-week stay in Kenya. Final project work and presentations will follow at UW Tacoma. Informational meetings will be held during Autumn Quarter 2011 to prepare students for travel abroad.

Program highlights:

• Homestays in communities active in Green Belt Movement's tree restoration and food security projects.
• Safari in the savanna of the famous Masai Mara game reserve, with lectures from wildlife managers on reserve design and challenges.
• Visit the Arabuko-Sokoke forest reserve on the coast north of Mombasa, participating in an ongoing research effort to link declining bird populations with arthropod resources.
• Work with local efforts on the coast to improve urban planning and sustainable water management.

Eligibility

Undergraduate and graduate students from any UW campus may apply. The program is limited to 15 students. Participants are selected on the basis of high scholarship, academic preparation, motivation, emotional maturity and financial responsibility.

Application

Complete application packets received by October 31, 2011, will be given priority consideration. Applications will continue to be accepted thereafter and applicants notified of acceptance decisions as admitted.

Travel documents and insurance

Study abroad insurance coverage is required. We recommend UW students take advantage of the UW Study Abroad Insurance, as an easy and affordable option. Students with personal insurance may petition for a UW Study Abroad Insurance waiver. For details, please contact the International Programs office.

Costs

The total cost of the program is $7,000.

Program cost includes:

• Academic course fee (12 credits)
• Round-trip airfare
• Housing
• Meals
• In-country transportation
• Park entrance fees
• Kenya visa

It does not include:

• Costs of travel documents (passport)
• Immunizations
• Travel Insurance
• Items of personal nature such as phone calls, laundry service, and souvenirs

Method of payment: Payments made in person or by mail will need to be paid by personal check, cashier's check, or money order made payable to University of Washington Tacoma. Please write "Kenya 2012" in the memo line of the check. The administrative fee of $250 must accompany your application for the program. To make the second payment of $1,500, please stop by our office in GWP 312, or mail your payment to:

International Programs, Campus Box 358430
University of Washington Tacoma
1900 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402

For other methods of payment, please contact Tracey Norris, Study Abroad Coordinator, at 253-692-4426.

The last payment of $5,250 will be charged automatically to your student account upon registration and can be paid online through your MyUW account. Please note: Students do not register themselves for this program. The Office of International Programs will register the student once the second payment and all appropriate program documents have been received.

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid funds which they intend to apply toward the program cost should consult with a financial aid adviser as soon as possible. Please bring the student financial aid budget form with you to your meeting.

Be aware that you may not receive financial aid in time to cover initial payments. You should be prepared to pay fees out of pocket until your financial aid is dispersed. Deadlines for payments cannot be waived or postponed.

Refund conditions for fees

1. If you are not accepted to the program, the first payment of $250 will be returned to you.
2. If you withdraw prior to December 1, 2011, all payments, less the $250 non-refundable administrative fee, will be refunded to you.
3. If you withdraw after December 1 but prior to January 3, 2012, 50% of the total cost of the program, less the $250 non-refundable administrative fee, will be refunded to you.
4. If you withdraw after January 3, 2012, you are obligated to pay the full cost of the program. No refunds will be given for unused accommodations, meals or other fees and services.

Notice of withdrawal from the program MUST be made in writing to:

International Programs, Campus Box 358430
University of Washington Tacoma
1900 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402

Changes in costs or scope of the program

In the event of significant devaluations of the dollar, some adjustments to program activities may be necessary.

If there are any political events that might compromise the safety of the participants, a rescheduling or cancellation of the program may be necessary. If such changes occur, students will be notified of the changes and options will be presented.

Program cancellation

If viable enrollment is not reached by December 1, 2011, the program will be cancelled and all recoverable monies paid will be refunded.

Equal opportunity and disability accommodations

The University of Washington reaffirms its policy of equal opportunity regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, or status as a disabled veteran or Vietnam era veteran in accordance with University policy and applicable federal and state statutes and regulations. The University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process contact Disability Support Services at least ten days in advance.