ON THIS PAGE Approach Class Time Courses Internships Credit Faculty

Educational Approach
In accordance with EEI mission and goals, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality personalized hands-on learning experiences in small groups of no more than about fifteen participants. Emphasis is placed on learning in the field, volunteer service-learning work, and cultural immersion. Offerings are interdisciplinary in nature, provide real-world experiences, and facilitate multicultural learning and self-exploration. Because participants often come from a variety of backgrounds, cooperative and self-directed learning are emphasized. We believe that each person brings particular interests, questions, and skills that enrich the learning experience for all. Moreover, participants will get to know their instructors and guides on a personal level. Faculty are accessible and eager to answer questions, in the classroom and in the field.

Classroom & Field Study Time
Because our offerings emphasize applied learning, substantial field study experiences are provided alongside time spent in the classroom. In-class activities include regular faculty lectures, as well as guest speakers, discussions, round-tables, panels, seminars, workshops, debates, and student presentations. Time spent outside the classroom may include field trips, educational exercises, field research, and/or other appropriate assignments. These activities take place at a variety of different sites during any given course. During these visits, participants are provided with a unique opportunity to learn from, and share with local stakeholders. These sites serve as case studies that taken together provide a real-world context for understanding the complex regional, national and global issues associated with working toward a sustainable future.

Courses & Programs
EEI offerings include a variety of experiential learning courses and programs offered in collaboration with partner institutions. These include short courses and a condensed semester abroad program, as well as study tours associated with specific courses at partner institutions.

NOTE: ALL OF THE FOLLOWING ARE OPEN TO PARTICIPANTS (STUDENTS AND NON-STUDENTS) WORLDWIDE.

Spring: Semester Abroad in 'Sustainable Global Stewardship'
A condensed interdisciplinary three-month spring semester program from mid-February through mid-April of each year. Twelve (12) units of undergraduate or graduate credit are included, with an additional three units (for a total of up to 15) available by special arrangement.

Summer: 'Deep Ecology & Sustainable Living'
A two-week short course offered each summer. Three units of undergraduate or graduate credit are available through Humboldt State University.

Winter: 'Deep Ecology & Sustainable Living'
A two-week ('J-term') short course offered in early January of each year. Three units of undergraduate or graduate credit are available through Humboldt State University.

In addition to regular courses and programs, we also facilitate specialized study tours with academic partners.

Internships
Most offerings include some service-learning at various field sites, and assistance is also provided to participants and alumni in arranging additional volunteer work with local environmental and social projects. In addition, volunteer/internship opportunities are available directly with EEI assisting with various projects related to sustainability and experiential education. Although some short-term opportunities may be available in our office in Costa Rica, there is also significant opportunity to volunteer or do an internship with EEI remotely from home. Please contact us if you may be interested.

Academic Credit
Credit for participation in EEI offerings is available through the Extended Education office of Humboldt State University (CA, U.S.A.), or other partner university where application is made directly. An additional fee may apply, depending whether or not credit is included. Alternatively, academic credit can be issued by the University of San José in Costa Rica. Although a transcript from those institutions is commonly accepted by numerous universities in other countries, each participant is responsible for making appropriate arrangements for transfer of that credit to their home institution. Please note that it is strongly recommended that this be done before participation in the program if this is a prerequisite to participation. Because guidelines differ, it is necessary to contact the academic advisor at the home institution (where you go to school) to answer this question with certainty.

Faculty
All Earth Education International faculty are exceptional teachers, advisors, and role models with a passion for their work. Most have their Doctorate, or other terminal degree, but all have a common belief in the importance of hands-on learning and are available to assist participants in any way possible to facilitate a successful academic experience. Furthermore, because most are multicultural and/or have lived in more than one culture themselves, they understand and are keenly attuned to personal challenges participants may encounter. In contrast to typical university life on campus, they are available outside of class time to provide help as needed. For more details, see the Staff section of the 'About Us' page.

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