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Students posing for a wide group picture at Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Islands Study Abroad

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Contact Us

Dr. Roldán A. Valverde
Director
School of Earth, Environmental, and Marine Sciences
BLHSB 2.816A
roldan.valverde@utrgv.edu
(956) 882-4077

Dr. James Jihoon Kang
Associate Professor
Environmental Science
ESCNE 2.618
jihoon.kang@utrgv.edu
(956) 665-3526

Dr. Engil Pereira
Associate Professor
Agricultural, Environmental, and Sustainability Sciences
ESCNE 2.616
engil.pereira@UTRGV.edu
(956) 665-2220

Dr. Diego Figueroa
Associate Professor
Ocean, Coastal and Earth Sciences
BLHSB 1.826
diego.figueroa@utrgv.edu
(956) 882-5982

Dr. David Hicks
Professor, Coordinator
Marine Biology
BLHSB 2.816A
david.hicks@utrgv.edu
(956) 882-5055

Dr. Christopher Gabler
Assistant Professor, SAFS Coordinator
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
BLHSB 2.810
christopher.gabler@utrgv.edu
956-882-7656

Overview

Experience one of the most unique ecosystems on Earth through this immersive, faculty-led study abroad program in the Galápagos Islands. Offered through UTRGV as part of ENVR 2370 / 5370 (Human Environmental Interactions in the Galápagos Islands), this two-week summer course places students directly inside a living laboratory of biodiversity, geology, and conservation.

Open to all majors, the program blends academic learning with hands-on exploration, giving students the opportunity to study evolution, sustainability, culture, and human-environment relationships in the very islands that inspired Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking work.

Students posing in a group photo around volcanic rock at Galapagps Islands
UTRGV students heading into the entrance of a cave at Galapagos Islands
Underwater shot of turtle with student posing in the background
Students posing in front of volcanic rock and yellow fumes
Galapagos Islands Satellite Map

What You’ll Experience

Students travel across several islands to observe wildlife, volcanic landscapes, conservation sites, and local communities. Daily activities may include guided ecological hikes, field journaling, snorkeling excursions, visits to research stations, and discussions on sustainability challenges facing island populations.

Through this program, students gain:

  • A deeper understanding of environmental systems and human impact

  • Firsthand experience with global conservation efforts

  • Exposure to Ecuadorian and island cultures

  • Expanded scientific literacy and intercultural awareness

  • Academic credit that counts toward core electives, environmental studies, and other degree pathways

Why the Galápagos?

The Galápagos Islands are globally renowned for their untouched ecosystems, evolutionary significance, and extraordinary wildlife. For students interested in environmental science, sustainability, policy, biology, anthropology, or simply expanding their worldview, this program offers an irreplaceable experience rooted in real-world learning.

Course Information

Course Title: Human Environmental Interactions in the Galápagos Islands

Course Numbers: ENVR 2370 (Undergraduate) / ENVR 5370 (Graduate)

Session: Summer I

Program Dates: June 2–17, 2026

Eligibility: Open to students from all majors

Questions?

For more information on applications, course details, or travel requirements, contact:

Dr. Juan L. Gonzalez

juan.l.gonzalez@utrgv.edu

College of Sciences - Dean's Office

Brownsville

BLHSB 2.202
(956) 882-6701

Edinburg

ESCNE 4.636
(956) 665-2404 

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