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Join our partner, , and explore diverse terrestrial, coastal, and coral reef communities of Belize, while learning about conservation programs on such species as harpy eagles, jaguars, manatees, and howler monkeys. Students in this course will spend much of their time at The Belize Zoo and the associated Tropical Education Center, where they will conduct research investigations and gain first-hand knowledge of the conservation efforts of the Zoo. To appreciate community-based conservation in action, students also spend time with a well-known small rural community whose mission is focused on balancing species conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives. Each student will also gain experience understanding marine environments in southern Belize, by staying and studying on one of Belize’s 450 barrier islands.

A typical day on this EE course includes exploration and hiking in the local environment, instructor and student-led discussions of key course topics, presentations, and engagement with local community experts, 1 to 2 snorkel experiences, and time for inquiry investigations and journal writing. Prior to and following the field experience in Belize, students will complete coursework via Canvas, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University's learning management system, as they apply experiences at home.

*** If you're interested in Belize: Approaches to Environmental Stewardship for Summer 2026, . This option is ideal for anyone needing Continuing Education Units or additional graduate credits, those with previous Master's experiences, or Dragonfly alums. We offer a limited number of spots (up to 6) for non-Master's candidates in most of our EE courses. An undergraduate degree is required. ***

The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center

The Belize Zoo, situated on 29 acres of tropical savanna, exhibits over 125 animals native to Belize. The Belize Zoo receives more than 10,000 school children every year as part of the Zoo’s progressive education program and is home to active jaguar and harpy eagle conservation projects.

Community Baboon Sanctuary

Established to protect the local population of black howler monkeys through voluntary community participation in land management, the Community Baboon Sanctuary encompasses over 12,980 acres of broadleaf forest, wetlands, and pasture farmland. The black howler monkey, known as “baboon” in Creole, is the main species of interest in the reserve.

 Tobacco Caye

An island totalling 5 acres in size, Tobacco Caye is an ideal location for studying aquatic life as it is situated directly on the barrier reef system. The island is home to mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds, and is a short boat ride from the biologically rich South Water Caye Marine Reserve. Working with the Tobacco Caye Marine Station, students have the opportunity to perform in-depth investigations of this diverse marine ecosystem.

(Course locations are subject to change.)

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