Are you a wildlife lover? Do you want to save the planet? Are you passionate about rescuing endangered species or protecting compromised ecosystems? Would you rather work outside than in an office?
Then studying conservation may be the path for you!
And what’s a better way to study wildlife than by going abroad? You will get the opportunity to have hands-on wilderness experience that will get you out of the classroom and into the daily life of a conservation professional.
Deciding where to study conservation abroad may seem daunting, but gaining international experience in this field will be sure to set you apart. With so many great options, choosing from the best places to study conservation abroad can be hard. In this article, we’ll explore the top locations for you to begin your search.
Why study conservation abroad?
The world becomes your classroom when you go abroad to study conservation.
Since you’re already a wildlife lover, there’s no need to explain how wild and diverse our world’s natural landscape is. Why wouldn’t you explore the vastness of our beautiful planet? What better way to do that than by studying conservation abroad?
Imagine protecting the endangered elephants in Kenya or saving the sea turtles of Costa Rica. You’ll get the chance to make a big impact anywhere in the world!
Studying conservation is one of the best majors to study abroad because it gives you the experience needed to launch a successful career. So, forget the classroom and learn in the great outdoors in some of the most breathtaking countries on the planet.
Here are a few other reasons to study conservation abroad:
- Experience with diverse ecosystems: Theoretical classes only go so far. When it comes to conservation, it’s advantageous to get out there! Explore beyond your home country and encounter what the world has to offer.
- Foreign language practice: Learning another language or two is vital for most majors but is especially important when studying conservation. Depending on where your career leads, you could need two or even three languages to get the job done.
- Learning cultural sensitivity: As the globe becomes more interconnected, the need for culturally sensitive professionals is on the rise. Learn diverse perspectives and build empathy for others with your experience abroad.
- Networking for a future career: Getting a job in conservation is all about who you know. Your international experience can get you the connections you need to launch a great career.
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8 best places to study conservation abroad
When looking for the best places to study conservation abroad, finding the right program for you can be tricky. There are many things to consider, like what type of ecosystem you want to study in or what program offers the college credits you need. Here is a list of the eight top options to begin your search:
1. Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s extraordinary biodiversity makes it an ideal location for learning about conservation.
Known as one of the happiest countries in the world, Costa Rica is also a jackpot for conservation students. The country has both breathtaking beaches and lush rainforests perfect for any nature lover.
Whether you decide to specialize in rainforest ecology or marine biology, Costa Rica is the place for you. If you are a turtle lover in particular you will love Costa Rica.
With sea turtle rescue programs, you’ll be able to help stop the poaching cycle sweeping through the nation. Restore the delicate life cycle of this endangered species with your conservation study abroad experience. If you’re looking for where to study conservation abroad in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica is great for you.
- Recommended program: CIEE Tropical Ecology + Conservation in Costa Rica
2. Kenya
The list of best places to study abroad for conservation would not be complete without Kenya, one of the world’s most famous African countries. Experience the wonders of a desert safari or trek through elephant reserves. The wild and wonderful world of African landscapes is there for you to encounter.
But the wildlife is threatened every day by local poachers. In programs through leading local universities, you’ll have firsthand experiences working with struggling animal populations. By studying conservation in Kenya, you’ll study wildlife found nowhere else on the planet and feel your direct impact on the survival of endangered species.
- Recommended program: SFS Kenya: Giraffe Ecology and Conservation
3. Australia
If you grew up watching Steve Irwin’s “The Crocodile Hunter,” then you know that Australia is the “Wild West” of all things wildlife. Teaming with snakes, kangaroos, and crocodiles, there’s nothing like Australia’s outback for a little nature adventure.
You won’t have a dull moment in the land down under. It’s a top choice if you’re looking for the best countries to study conservation abroad.
Australia is in a huge need of conservationists, and you will have many options for choosing a specialty. Whether you are interested in saving the koalas, preserving the dying Great Barrier Reef, or studying the effect of climate change on the delicate ecosystem, Australia is the place for you.
- Recommended program: SFS Australia: Tropical Rainforest Study
4. Scotland
Scotland might not be the first place you think of when it comes to conservation, but it’s actually an amazing destination.
When you think of conservation, you might not put Scotland on the list. However, the Highlands are perfect for those wanting to study conservation in a northern climate. One of the best countries to study conservation abroad is also English-speaking—you’ll feel comfortable focusing on studying conservation when you can still use English to get around.
Scotland is a great place to study the natural beauty of the inland cliffs and grasslands. Get a plethora of field training, documentation experience, and habitat preservation experience as you wander through places like Trossachs National Park. You’ll build your conservation management skills while also engaging in the unique culture as you travel through the grassy Highlands.
- Recommended program: Ecology Conservation Program in Scotland - Adelante Abroad
5. Ecuador
Nestled between Colombia and Peru, Ecuador is a tropical country teeming with natural beauty. Located right along the equator, the landscape includes everything from the Amazon rainforest, the Andean highlands, and the Galapagos Islands. It’s like a one-stop shop for any nature lover.
If you study conservation abroad in Ecuador, you’ll get to explore diverse ecosystems within one small country. Choose from experiences like protecting the dying Amazon rainforest and studying the Galapagos tortoise. When it comes to unique and unforgettable experiences, Ecuador should be at the top of your list.
- Recommended program: AIFS Study Abroad in the Galapagos, Ecuador: January Term
6. Argentina
Tango, Lionel Messi, and Patagonia are some of the first things you might think of when you imagine Argentina. With its rich music culture, football obsession, and Italian influence, this country is perfect for any study abroad student. And, if you are studying conservation, you’ll have great experiences to write home about.
Studying conservation abroad in Argentina allows you to not only learn about places like Patagonia’s mountains but also may give you the chance to experience one of the world’s least-traveled continents: Antarctica. Explore and study the South Pole, a land hardly touched by human hands.
With an opportunity like that, who would want to miss out on dancing with those adorable penguins? Argentina definitely makes the list of best countries to study conservation abroad.
- Recommended program: SIT Study Abroad: Argentina: People, Environment, & Climate
7. Tanzania
You’ll have opportunities for hands-on learning about the wildlife of Tanzania.
Home of the famous Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania is another great African country to study conservation abroad. The country, known for its vast wilderness like the Serengeti National Park, is home to the Big Five (elephant, lion, rhino, leopard, and buffalo). Even with conservation efforts, the wildlife is always threatened by lawless poachers.
Deforestation is also taking a huge toll in Tanzania. In your study abroad experience, you will be able to help restore and protect the country from further devastation.
Also, if you opt for a program that includes wildlife management, you’ll gain the skills necessary to lead your own conservation team in the future. If you’re ready for a wilderness excursion and hands-on learning in the heart of Africa, Tanzania is right for you.
- Recommended program: SFS Tanzania: Carnivores of the African Plains
8. Belize
This small Central American country between Mexico and Guatemala boasts oceanfront views, scuba diving, and jungle zip lining. With its rich cultural heritage, Belize draws in visitors who like to explore the Mayan ruins and enjoy the unique blend of local culinary traditions. Many foreigners feel comfortable traveling there since over 60% of the population speaks English.
It’s great to know that this getaway destination is also one of the best places to study abroad for conservation. The gems of the nation are more than its beaches. Belize has one of the most breathtaking barrier reefs in the world, a perfect place for any conservation student to study.
For those fascinated by marine ecosystems, Belize is the place for you. Study some of the most beautiful reefs on earth and learn how to protect them from over-tourism and decay. You might come home with a nice tan too!
- Recommended program: Wildlife Health, Ecology and Conservation
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Studying conservation abroad will elevate your academics and career!
Once you choose where to study conservation abroad, you’re ready to launch your studies and your future.
Ready to build your career as a conservationist? Studying conservation abroad is one of the best decisions for your journey. Whether you want to preserve endangered animals or save the last trees in the rainforest, the choice is there for you.
With so many great options, finding where to study conservation abroad may be the hardest part. But whatever you do, get out there and save the planet!
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