- Townsville, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is iconic and imperiled. On a grand scale, it exemplifies how scientific evidence, economic calculations, and political imperatives combine and compete to shape environmental policy. The course introduces students to the complex world of environmental politics and policy. It showcases the trade-offs of environmental protection, explores the politicization of science, and illustrates how electoral politics and political institutions affect policy outcomes. Students will learn firsthand about the competing interests that have a stake in GBR-policy by personally meeting with people who represent these interests-such as representatives from various local industries, environmental activists, politicians, bureaucrats, scientists, Indigenous peoples, and other local residents.
Sponsored by College of Liberal Arts
Course(s)
-
GOV 347P
- The Politics of Protecting the Great Barrier Reef
and
L A 119 - International Learning Seminar (Spring)
Academic Information
Students earn 3 hours of in-residence credit for GOV 347P. Students are required to enroll in an LA 119 class during Spring 2022 that meets Wednesdays 3-4pm. The course is approved for IRG STE track and sustainability studies major course. Course also qualifies for Global Cultures, Independent Inquiry and Writing flags.
Faculty
Dr. Rhonda Evans, J.D., teaches in the Department of Government and directs the Clark Center for Australian & New Zealand Studies. Her research focuses on Australian law, policy, and politics. She has received multiple teaching awards, including the Jean Holloway Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2022.
Language(s) of Instruction
English
Eligibility
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance
- Good academic standing (3.0 GPA or above)
- UT enrollment during the spring semester proceeding the program
- Open to graduate and undergraduate students
Service Learning/Internship
- Service Learning - No
- Internship - No
Housing
Students will live in a hotel in Townsville and hostel style accommodations during their excursions, including the trip to Brisbane. Townsville accommodation includes AC, wifi, swimming pool, hot tub, and a washer/dryer.
Open To
Students from all colleges and schools
Program Cost
2024 Program Fee TBD. 2023 Program Fee: $5125. Includes $500 non-refundable deposit, housing, some meals, excursions, administrative and instructional costs, and on-site orientation. Program fee does not include airfare, insurance, local transportation and personal expenses. $10,000 in COLA scholarship funds.
Dates:
- Program: May 12, 2024 to June 6, 2024
- Instructional: May 12, 2024 to June 6, 2024
- Final Deadline: November 1, 2023
Application Code
355119
Program Coordinator
Julia Pfeiffer
Additional Resources
Program Website
Scholarships
Financial Aid
Events Calendar
Fin Responsibility Policy
Information Session
Video
Brochure
Next Step
Application deadline for 2023 program is November 1,2022. Click "information session" link above for info session dates, times, and location. For questions contact program coordinator Julia Pfeiffer at julia.pfeiffer@austin.utexas.edu.