IMPORTANT NOTE:
All information regarding Winter 24-25 programs is subject to change. Anything below listed as "TBD" will be updated as information is fully confirmed - students who open applications with information listed as "TBD" will be sent an email once that information is updated and confirmed. IF SOMETHING IS LISTED AS "TBD" THERE IS NO ESTIMATED DATE AS TO WHEN THAT INFORMATION WILL BE AVAILABLE.
The purpose of the program is to create a dynamic and collaborative educational experience that brings together William & Mary (WM) undergraduates and Incheon National University (INU) undergraduates for a shared exploration of environmental DNA (eDNA) in the context of global marine biodiversity. By fostering cross-cultural interactions and interdisciplinary learning, the program aims to achieve global learning outcomes. Students from both institutions will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiences, including field excursions and lab activities. The collaborative nature of the program encourages the exchange of diverse perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of how cultural and societal differences influence scientific research. Through this partnership, the program seeks to cultivate a sense of global citizenship, enabling students to connect with peers from different cultural backgrounds, conduct global biodiversity research, and reflect on their roles in a global context. The overarching purpose is to provide a transformative educational experience that goes beyond traditional classroom boundaries, preparing students to navigate the complexities of global environmental challenges collaboratively.
The program will incorporate a variety of excursions and extra-curricular events designed to complement the academic program. Field excursions to diverse coastal ecosystems in Incheon will provide hands-on opportunities for students to apply environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling techniques, reinforcing theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom. Visits to local research laboratories will offer insights into cutting-edge marine biology and eDNA research, connecting academic concepts with real-world practices. Cultural excursions, such as guided tours of Incheon and interactions with the local community, will enhance cross-cultural understanding and contribute to the broader global learning outcomes. A group project using metabarcoding analysis will provide practical skills and align with the program's academic goals. These excursions and events aim to create a holistic learning experience, integrating classroom instruction with practical applications, cultural immersion, and skill development, ultimately enriching the academic program for all participants.
About W&M Winter Programs:
W&M Winter programs are led by W&M faculty and students will received W&M credits. All courses must be taken for a grade, which will be calculated into their GPA. Students will participate in a 1 credit pre-course that will take place from mid-October through just before exams. This course is required for participation in the program. Students will automatically receive COLL300 for courses taken abroad.
Course Information:
INTR 299: W&M Winter Incheon Pre-Course (1 credit)
Required Text: TBD
MSCI 498: Special Topics in Marine Science (Introduction to Environmental DNA: Exploring Biodiversity of Marine Life in Costal Ecosystems) (3 credits)
Required Texts: TBD
Prerequisite: none
W&M Faculty:
Bongkeun Song, PhD (songb@vims.edu)
Virginia Institute of Marine Science
Program Dates:
Arrival: January 4, 2025
Departure: January 19, 2025
*please keep in mind arrival dates will require a departure from the US earlier than this date.
Important Dates:
Application Due ($75): September 9, 2024
Deposit Due ($700): October 4, 2024
Balance Due: November 1, 2024
*A $75 application fee applies, to be paid to GEO Marketplace. Please note that the deposit fees are non-refundable.
Application fee information:
The application fee ($75) is due by the deadline and should be paid online at the
GEO Marketplace Store. Whoever is making the payment will need student 93#, email, and phone number. The application fee is refundable in the event that you are not accepted into the program or the program is canceled by W&M.
Program Fees:
Program Cost: $4,500
Includes: Excursions, accommodations, in country transportation, some meals, course fees, international health insurance.
Does not include: Flights, personal expenses, some meals, US transportation, required texts.
For more information on the breakdown of program fees please visit our budget sheet.
Funding:
Scholarship for this program is available. Please apply to the
Reves Winter Scholarship by the September 9 deadline.
Please open a scholarship application AFTER opening a program application to avoid technical difficulties
Funding will be awarded based on financial need as determined by the Office of Financial Aid.
Eligibility:
- Students must be an active W&M undergraduate student in good standing, not on academic or disciplinary probation during time abroad, and eligible to take classes at the W&M Williamsburg campus to study abroad.
- Students currently on-campus must successfully complete 1 credit fall course.
- For more information about eligibility, please visit our Policies that Affect You page.
Questions:
Please contact Lisa Roney, Special Programs Advisor (lmroney@wm.edu)
Handbooks:
W&M Winter Program Handbook 2024
