Academic Requirements

BIOL 296* or 496** (SUST 495**) - Sustainability and Conservation: Citizen Science and Service Learning in Australia (online)

Students must complete two online pre-trip assignments that provide essential background knowledge on topics and areas to be explored.

* Penn State undergraduate prerequisite: students must have a >3.0 cumulative GPA and 2nd – 4th semester standing.

** Penn State undergraduate prerequisite: students must have a >3.0 cumulative GPA, entrance to given major, and 5th semester standing.

BIOL 296* or 496** (SUST 495**) – A Field Practicum in Australia

(1 credit; summer; June 24 - July 9, 2018)

Students must complete: a field-based trip experience (two weeks in duration in conjunction that includes: 1) hands-on field research (several are ‘citizen science’ projects) on real-world questions and/or issues related to the ecology or biodiversity of select Australian flora or fauna; 2) field exploration of select Australian ecosystems; 3) upkeep of a scientific journal and notebook; 4) participation in group reflections and discussion forums; 5) data analyses and interpretations; 6) conservation service work; and 7) leading part of student group discussions on assigned research topic (only for 400 level students). Post-trip students must also complete an online assignment that encourages the integration and application of key concepts learned.

* Penn State undergraduate prerequisite: students must have a >3.0 cumulative GPA and 2nd – 4th semester standing, entrance to major, and 5th semester standing.

** Penn State undergraduate prerequisite: students must have a >3.0 cumulative GPA, entrance to given major, and 5th semester standing.