The Bing Overseas Studies Program (BOSP) offers the opportunity to study abroad while remaining enrolled at Stanford and is considered an integral part of the Stanford curriculum. All BOSP programs offer direct Stanford credit for courses taught overseas that frequently count toward one or more majors. In addition, many BOSP courses fulfill Ways of Thinking/Ways of Doing Requirements (WAYS). Regular tuition applies, and financial aid continues. BOSP operates a variety of programs, including quarter length programs, internships and other opportunities.
In collaboration with the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, BOSP offers a program in Australian coastal studies. This program enrolls up to 48 students in a prearranged set of courses in marine biology and ecology of the Great Barrier Reef and the coastal rainforest, as well as an introduction to Australian Studies. During the ten-week quarter, students gain access to some of the most pristine coral reefs, rainforests, and other coastal ecosystems in the world.
The Stanford Program in Australia schedule is organized around four required academic modules, taught in a variety of locations along the northeastern coast of Australia and in Sydney. The four modules consist of Coral Reef Ecosystems, Coastal Forest Ecosystems, Freshwater Systems, and Australian Studies. In addition, students complete Targeted Research Projects under the supervision of University of Queensland instructors.
Faculty members lead students from Cairns to research stations on the Great Barrier Reef, into the rainforests of Far North Queensland, to Sydney, and around Brisbane. Many of these trips offer unparalleled on-site ecological experiences.
The academic objectives of this program are to introduce students to the enormous biodiversity of coral reefs and rainforests and to increase understanding of these key global ecosystems, while emphasizing the challenges of human cohabitation and industry. The opportunity to complete hands-on research greatly enhances students’ research skills and offers tremendous insight into Australian coastal life.
Program Offered: Autumn
Program Capacity: 48 students
Language of Instruction: English
Housing Type: Varies upon location (mostly dorms and hostels)
Eligibility and Requirements:
Detailed information regarding eligibility to participate in a BOSP Program can be found on the Application Process page of the BOSP website.
Program Requirements
Academic: Completion of one of the following courses: BIOHOPK 43, BIO 46, BIO 47, BIO81/BIOHOPK 81, BIO 101, BIO 105A, BIO 115, BIO 130, or HUMBIO 2A
*All students must complete a swim test prior to participation in the program