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The African Field Study Semester (AFSS) is run through McGill's Canadian Field Study in Africa Program (CFSIA).

The AFSS provides one term of integrated field study in East Africa, with emphasis on environmental conservation, culture change and sustainable development. Students investigate challenges of sustaining biological diversity and social justice in African environments subject to cultural change, economic development and environmental stress. Cultural and ecological variation is examined in highland, montane, rangeland, desert, riverine, salt and fresh water lake, coastal, and urban settings.

6 credits

Students select one course titled "Research in Society and Development in Africa" and one course titled "Research in Ecology and Development in Africa" from the courses below.

9 credits from:

*Note: Courses marked with an asterisk ("*") are offered on a rotational basis, at least 3 credits annually.

The Barbados Field Study Semester (BFSS) provides one term of integrated field study for students with an interest in global issues related to natural resource use as affected by socio-economic, management, urban and physical constraints. Offered at the Bellairs Research Institute in Barbados, this program challenges students to be more effective environmental decision makers, policy makers and managers. There is a growing need for professionals with such skills at all levels of government, within NGOs, and in the private sector. The overall goal of the BFSS is to equip future leaders to address the complexity of issues associated with the formulation and implementation of organizational strategies compatible with the societal goal of sustainable use and development of our natural resources.

The BFSS is intended for senior undergraduate students from across the University. Students must apply to participate in the program. Selection will be based on the student's academic standing and demonstrated interests and involvement in international issues related to natural resource use.

6 credits

9 credits

Students select one 3-credit course titled "Water Resources in Barbados" and one 6-credit course titled "Sustainable Development Plans" from the list below.

The Barbados Interdisciplinary Tropical Studies (BITS) Field Semester is an activity-filled, hands-on, experience for students with an interest in international studies with a Caribbean flavour. The focus is on sustainable agri-food and energy production and nutrition on a tropical island with a tourist-based economy. It is offered annually (in the summer). It consists of three 2-hour orientation sessions conducted on the Macdonald Campus followed by three 3-credit and one 6-credit project course at Bellairs Research Institute in Barbados. This program integrates intensive course work with group project work and contributes to the formation of professionals with planning, managing, decision-making, and communication skills. The program addresses a global need for experienced professionals capable of interacting with various levels of government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.

15 credits

This program is offered in Panama with the support of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI).

Hands-on experience is gained through research projects organized around multidisciplinary environmental issues. The nature of these projects will centre on practical environmental problems/questions important for Panama. Students will form teams that will work with Panamanian institutions (NGO, governmental or research).

There is a one or two day period of transition and 13 weeks of course attendance in Panama. Field trips will be integrated into each of the courses offered.

9 credits

6 credits

Complementary courses change from year to year. Students will register for the 6 credits offered the winter of their participation in the field study semester.

Winter 2010 complementary courses:

Winter 2011 complementary courses:

In consultation with their departmental advisor and/or the Field study Minor Advisor, students who have completed one of the field study semesters described above may select a 3-credit complementary course to complete the requirements for the minor and ask for it to be added to their academic records.