Our tropical ecosystems education Programs
The tropics could be your classroom.
The tropics are the world’s future. Prepare to become part of that future. OTS field-based education programs inspire and prepare the next generation of change agents, critical thinkers, scientists and practitioners on their paths to discovery and global leadership. As an OTS student you will be immersed in tropical ecosystems education, explore biodiversity first hand, connect with diverse communities and cultures and experience the wonder of the tropics. OTS will equip you to work effectively in today’s interconnected world and become a solution-maker for the future.
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Undergraduate Programs
Our programs offer a comprehensive study into field biology, ecology, and conservation in a diversity of community settings and ecosystems in South Africa. In all of our programs you can expect to become part of an international, multicultural community, and the relationships you build will last throughout your life. Diversity – biodiversity, cultural diversity, diversity [...]
Graduate Programs
OTS graduate courses are designed to engage students in the formulation of feasible research questions, experimental design, data collection, analysis, and oral and written presentations. We do this through “field problems” in which students work with experts in the field to address ecological questions. Our courses provide hands-on research experience in plant eco-physiology, microbial ecology, [...]
Online Courses
Online  Courses  Even though OTS is known for field-based educational programs and experiences, OTS online courses are  designed to focus on emerging issues in the fields of biology, conservation, statistics, technology,  and others, but can be taken from anywhere.  These short courses will be taught  using a combination of  live  and recorded  lectures . OTS online courses are comprised of two categories: Skills-based,  short courses [...]
Field Practicums
Field Practicums OTS is already a leader in field-based educational programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Now, through our Field Practicums, students build upon their academic experiences by participating in internship-like programs to develop field skills and knowledge, preparing them for a career in field work. Participants will gain invaluable practical and theoretical knowledge around [...]
NSF LSAMP REU
The Research Experiences for Undergraduates, or “REU” program is a summer internship program designed to provide qualified students with an intensive research experience. Each student works with one mentor to develop an 8-week project that addresses the research interests of the student. REU mentors are experienced field ecologists that will help you conduct research projects […]
Faculty-led Programs
We are committed to helping your group have the experience of a lifetime Our Services: Customized faculty-led academic trips including OTS stations and external sites all over Costa Rica. Academic advisory in the design and implementation of your course. Coordination of local transportation for your group. Reservations at hotels and other activities for the academic [...]
Our Faculty
OTS Faculty Pablo Allen, Ph.D. Ph.D. University of Florida pabloallen@gmail.com Pablo E Allen is an evolutionary ecologist interest in sexual selection, animal weapons, phenotypic plasticity, and allometry. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Costa Rica in 2001, his Masters of Science in Biology also from UCR in 2007, and [...]
Funding Opportunities
OTS has several scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students. See the following information to find the right one for you. Undergraduate Course ScholarshipsOTS Scholarships OTS is committed to providing opportunities to all eligible students interested in participating in our programs. We make every effort possible to ensure that financial obstacles are not the primary reason [...]
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Undergraduate Programs
Our programs offer a comprehensive study into field biology, ecology, and global health in a diversity of community settings and ecosystems ranging from lowland tropical forests to African savannas. In all of our programs you can expect to become part of an international, multicultural community, and the relationships you build will last throughout your life. Diversity – biodiversity, cultural diversity, diversity of thought – are at the heart of OTS. Studying with us will stretch your mind and present you with exciting new possibilities.
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Graduate Programs
OTS graduate courses are designed to engage students in the formulation of feasible research questions, experimental design, data collection, analysis, and oral and written presentations. We do this through “field problems” in which students work with experts in the field to address ecological questions. Our courses provide hands-on research experience in plant eco-physiology, microbial ecology, molecular ecology, remote sensing, rapid biodiversity inventories, and other cutting edge topics. Nothing can replace the hands-on experience of a field-based course in the tropics!
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Online Courses
Even though OTS is known for field-based educational programs and experiences, OTS online courses are designed to focus on emerging issues in the fields of biology, conservation, statistics, technology, and others, but can be taken from anywhere.
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Field Practicums
OTS is already a leader in field-based educational programs for undergraduate and graduate students.
More InfoNSF LSAMP REU
The Research Experiences for Undergraduates, or “REU” program is a summer internship program designed to provide qualified students with an intensive research experience. Each student works with one mentor to develop an 8-week project that addresses the research interests of the student. REU mentors are experienced field ecologists that will help you conduct research projects at La Selva or at Las Cruces Research Stations. Become part of one of the foremost tropical research communities in the world. Accepted students have all travel expenses covered and also receive a generous stipend.
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Faculty-led Programs
We can reduce the stress of organizing a trip with your students! With three full-service research stations, a dedicated staff, and decades of experience organizing courses and research permits in Costa Rica, we are perfectly suited to facilitate tropical courses for you. We have assisted hundreds of faculty members throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe by arranging everything from one-week field trips to full semester programs.
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Education Program Video Gallery
