Study Abroad | Spring Break Programs
Spring break courses are faculty-led and sponsored through individual departments within the College of Agriculture. Programs are offered for one week to ten days during Purdue's spring break in March. Students earn one or two credits.
AGRICULTURAL, ENVIRONMENTAL & COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY IN COSTA RICA
- Costa Rica
- March 15-23, 2025
- Credits: AGR 49300 – 1 credit
- Cost for 2024: $3500 which includes airfare, accommodation, in-country transportation, entrance fees, meals, international medical insurance
Visit coffee, pineapple, and cacao farms | Arenal Volcano | Hike and learn about tropical rainforest ecology | Encounter river rafting and natural hot springs | Snorkel Pacific waters | Whale watch at Marino Ballena National Park | Experience tasty cuisine and colorful culture | and much more!
NATURAL HISTORY IN COSTA RICA
- Costa Rica
- March 14-23, 2025
- Credits: FNR 49800 - 2 credits
- Cost in 2024: $3330 which includes airfare, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, transportation, international medical insurance.
Dr. Reuben Goforth
Dr. Barny Dunning
This course offers students the opportunity to explore biodiversity and conduct field studies in tropical rainforest, Pacific dry forest, Pacific rock reef, and mangrove swamp ecosystems of Costa Rica. Students will stay at multiple locations, including La Suerte Lodge and La Selva Biological Field Station in the tropical rain forest; Cano Negro National Wildlife Refuge in the far north of the country; and Curu National Wildlife Refuge in the dry tropical forerst on the Pacific coast. Students will be expected to participate in all aspects of the trip, including extensive hiking in a variety of environments, snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean, and early morning and night hikes for birds and amphibians/reptiles, respectively. Students certified in the use of SCUBA will have the opportunity to go on dives over the Pacific rock reefs along the Curu Peninsula. Particular emphasis will be given to visiting habitats to observe freshwater fishes, marine fishes and other sea life, amphibians, reptiles, small mammals (especially bats), and birds. A Costa Rican conservationist who has worked extensively as a bat biologist and tour leader in the country will also provide students with insights into Costa Rican culture and history while they are experiencing the incredible biodiversity of Central America!
AGRICULTURE IN IRELAND
- Ireland
- March 9-17, 2024
- Credits: AGR 49300 or AGEC 49800 – 1 credit
- Cost for 2024: $3930 which includes airfare, transportation, some meals, international medical insurance, accommodation
DISCOVERING AGRICULTURE, FOOD, HISTORY AND THE CULTURE IN GREECE
AGRICULTURE IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
- Trinidad & Tobago | March 9-16, 2024
- Credits: AGR 49300 – 1 credit
- Cost in 2024: $2800 which includes airfare, accommodation, some meals, in-country transportation, entrance fees, international medical insurance.
Trinidad and Tobago, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse agricultural practices, provides an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable educational experience. This immersive journey will allow you to:
- Explore Agriculture: Gain hands-on experience in tropical agriculture, visit local farms, and learn from experts in the field. Discover sustainable farming practices unique to the region.
- Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago. Engage with local communities, sample delicious cuisine, and participate in traditional dances and music.
- Adventure Awaits: From exploring lush rainforests to relaxing on pristine beaches, this adventure offers a perfect blend of educational and recreational activities.
- Expand Your Horizons: Broaden your global perspective and build lifelong connections with fellow students and locals.
This study abroad class is open to students from all backgrounds and disciplines who share a passion for agriculture, culture, and adventure. No prior agricultural or cultural experience is required – just a desire to learn and explore.
VIETNAM: FOOD SECURITY & ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES
- Vietnam | March 9-17, 2024
- Credits: 3 credits - ANSC 49500
- Cost for 2024: $3200 includes airfare, accommodation, entrance fees, international medical insurance, some meals
AGRICULTURAL, ENVIRONMENTAL & COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY IN COSTA RICA
- Costa Rica
- March 15-23, 2025
- Credits: AGR 49300 – 1 credit
- Cost for 2024: $3500 which includes airfare, accommodation, in-country transportation, entrance fees, meals, international medical insurance
Visit coffee, pineapple, and cacao farms | Arenal Volcano | Hike and learn about tropical rainforest ecology | Encounter river rafting and natural hot springs | Snorkel Pacific waters | Whale watch at Marino Ballena National Park | Experience tasty cuisine and colorful culture | and much more!
NATURAL HISTORY IN COSTA RICA
- Costa Rica
- March 14-23, 2025
- Credits: FNR 49800 - 2 credits
- Cost in 2024: $3330 which includes airfare, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, transportation, international medical insurance.
Dr. Reuben Goforth
Dr. Barny Dunning
This course offers students the opportunity to explore biodiversity and conduct field studies in tropical rainforest, Pacific dry forest, Pacific rock reef, and mangrove swamp ecosystems of Costa Rica. Students will stay at multiple locations, including La Suerte Lodge and La Selva Biological Field Station in the tropical rain forest; Cano Negro National Wildlife Refuge in the far north of the country; and Curu National Wildlife Refuge in the dry tropical forerst on the Pacific coast. Students will be expected to participate in all aspects of the trip, including extensive hiking in a variety of environments, snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean, and early morning and night hikes for birds and amphibians/reptiles, respectively. Students certified in the use of SCUBA will have the opportunity to go on dives over the Pacific rock reefs along the Curu Peninsula. Particular emphasis will be given to visiting habitats to observe freshwater fishes, marine fishes and other sea life, amphibians, reptiles, small mammals (especially bats), and birds. A Costa Rican conservationist who has worked extensively as a bat biologist and tour leader in the country will also provide students with insights into Costa Rican culture and history while they are experiencing the incredible biodiversity of Central America!
AGRICULTURE IN IRELAND
- Ireland
- March 9-17, 2024
- Credits: AGR 49300 or AGEC 49800 – 1 credit
- Cost for 2024: $3930 which includes airfare, transportation, some meals, international medical insurance, accommodation
DISCOVERING AGRICULTURE, FOOD, HISTORY AND THE CULTURE IN GREECE
AGRICULTURE IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
- Trinidad & Tobago | March 9-16, 2024
- Credits: AGR 49300 – 1 credit
- Cost in 2024: $2800 which includes airfare, accommodation, some meals, in-country transportation, entrance fees, international medical insurance.
Trinidad and Tobago, known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse agricultural practices, provides an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable educational experience. This immersive journey will allow you to:
- Explore Agriculture: Gain hands-on experience in tropical agriculture, visit local farms, and learn from experts in the field. Discover sustainable farming practices unique to the region.
- Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago. Engage with local communities, sample delicious cuisine, and participate in traditional dances and music.
- Adventure Awaits: From exploring lush rainforests to relaxing on pristine beaches, this adventure offers a perfect blend of educational and recreational activities.
- Expand Your Horizons: Broaden your global perspective and build lifelong connections with fellow students and locals.
This study abroad class is open to students from all backgrounds and disciplines who share a passion for agriculture, culture, and adventure. No prior agricultural or cultural experience is required – just a desire to learn and explore.
VIETNAM: FOOD SECURITY & ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES
- Vietnam | March 9-17, 2024
- Credits: 3 credits - ANSC 49500
- Cost for 2024: $3200 includes airfare, accommodation, entrance fees, international medical insurance, some meals