Considering Biology Study Abroad Programs? If you’re planning a biology study abroad adventure, you’re in the right place! Pursuing your passion for biology in another country could be a great way to explore flora, fauna, and natural environments that may not be available to you at home. Plus, biology study abroad programs may allow you to earn potential college credits while having the experience of a lifetime! Imagine trekking through the rain forest in Costa Rica while studying wildlife biology, or examining urban biology in London’s green spaces. Of course, every program is different, and you’ll likely have lots of questions about study abroad opportunities that could potentially fit your needs. The following FAQs may help you plan your journey.
Is there study abroad for biology majors?
Sure! Students studying for a potential biology career path may be looking for biology study abroad programs that are subject-specific. While these may exist, keep in mind that many study abroad programs are more general, potentially allowing you to plan the experience that’s perfect for you. For example, you could pursue possible biology course credits in Peru while spending your days exploring Incan ruins, or take microbiology classes in Argentina while brushing up on your Spanish!
What are some potential benefits of biology study abroad programs?
Possible benefits of studying biology abroad could include both the professional and the personal. Let’s start with the professional! If you’re pursuing a biology career path such as zoologist, biological technician, or microbiologist, you may plan to take courses such as ecology, cellular biology, biochemistry, or even herpetology! But there may be more to preparing for a potential biology career than your academic studies. For example, many biology roles call for excellent observation skills, as professionals in this field may need to monitor experiments, take note of animal behavior, keep accurate records of their work, and much more. Living and learning in another country could be a great way to put your observational abilities to the test, since you’ll likely encounter new people, customs, and behaviors! Good communication and interpersonal skills may also be important for biology professionals, since they may have to work with others or share the results of their experiments. Meeting new people and immersing yourself in a culture different from your own could be a great way to prepare for future interpersonal challenges. Of course, personal development may also be a good reason to embark on a study abroad biology adventure. For example, you might decide to study a new language while living and learning abroad, or you could step outside of your comfort zone by trying new foods and pastimes. You may discover new interests you never knew you had. And if seeing the world’s natural and manmade treasures is one of your goals, study abroad could be a chance to check some sightseeing off your list!
What should I know before pursuing biology study abroad programs?
The program you are interested in may have more specific info and requirements. However, there are a few things you should probably know before embarking on your journey! For starters, decide how long you plan to study abroad: a few weeks, an academic semester, or an entire school year? Depending on how long you plan to stay in your host country, you may need a visa or other travel documents. For example, U.S. passport holders studying in France for fewer than 90 days don’t need a visa…but if they plan to stay longer, they’ll need to apply for a student visa. Finally, be aware of travel health advisories or precautions in your country of choice…particularly if you plan to explore the great outdoors! Participating in a biology study abroad program could be an experience to remember forever! Check out a few programs that just might be the perfect fit for you.
