Program Site
The University of San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) established the Galapagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences (GAIAS) in 2002 in Puerto Baquerizo Morena, the capital city of the Galapagos Archipelago, on the island of San Cristobal. The Ecuadrian Government set aside 11 acres overlooking the bay for USFQ to establish this academic institute. About 97% of the land surface of the Galapagos Islands are a National Park and have been named a World Heritage Site.

Academic Program Highlights
The semester program in the Galapagos offers students the opportunity to study ecology and biology with no knowledge of Spanish. The semester program consists of five intensive courses that are all taught in three-week modules and worth three credits each. Sample courses included Human Ecology and Maritime Communities, Evolutionary Biology, Population Ecology, Introduction to Marine Life of the Galapagos Islands, and Native and Introduces Plants of the Galapagos. All courses are taught in English.

Program Duration
Fall: August 24 - December 23
Spring: January 10 - May 20

Application Deadlines*
Fall: May 1
Spring: October 15
*Note: Contact Rio Salado College for exact dates.

Recommended Credits
15 credits per semester

Transcripts
For all courses taken at Galapagos Academic Institute for the Arts and Sciences where there are equivalent courses in the MCCCD, the official record for those credits will be posted on the MCCCD, Rio Salado College, transcripts.

Eligibility
A 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; transcripts, three letters of recommendation; statement of purpose; minimum age of 18; must have taken one course each in ecology and biology.

Student Life
Students live either in a dormitory on campus or in homestays with local families. The campus accommodates 24 undergraduate students and 8 faculty members. The homestays facilitate the student's immersion into the local culture. Three classrooms, a basic library, and laboratory space are provided. The institute also has a communication center that provides internet services and local and international calls.

Costs
The cost of a semester may vary as changes occur in the economies and currencies of the U.S. and Ecuador. The factors listed below are used to calculate program costs. " Tuition at Rio Salado College (assessed according to the student's residency status). " Program costs in Ecuador, including instruction, housing, application and orientation fees, insurance, books and field trips. " Transportation to Ecuador.

Financial Aid
Any financial aid for which students are eligible during the course of their study at Rio Salado College, including Pell Grants, can be used toward the cost of the program in Ecuador.

For More Information
Office of International Education
Rio Salado College
2323 W. 14th St.
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 517-8416
(480) 517-8849 Fax
Contact: Erma Abeyta, Director of International Programs
OIE@riomail.maricopa.edu