Reed College
Reed College

International Programs Office

School for Field Studies - Tanzania

Multiple Locations, Tanzania

The program explores the human elements of these the complex conservation issues. Our curriculum and research focus on how changes in land use and resource availability in the Tarangire-Manyara ecosystem can be managed to foster the well-being of local communities while safeguarding and promoting biodiversity conservation. Students learn about the socioeconomic, policy, and environmental drivers and implications of demographic change and land reform for wildlife conservation and rural development. Students hear lectures by park wardens, wildlife veterinarians, and field researchers. They also interview Maasai community members about challenges they face by the rapid loss of natural resources.

Northern Tanzania is a hub of wildlife tourism. Home to world-famous national parks such as Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this remarkably scenic area is the center of tourism in East Africa. It has also been the home of the Maasai, Iraqw, and other groups for centuries.

SFS’ field station is surrounded by wildlife using diverse migration corridors and seasonal dispersal areas. The Maasai, and now settlers from other ethnic communities, depend on these same areas as communal grazing grounds for livestock and for growing food. As a result, they often face economic hardship due to crop damage from migrating wildlife, loss of livestock, and resource depletion and competition. Agricultural expansion, pollution, and climate change threaten the already strained water supply and the health of people, livestock, and wildlife alike.

Program Information

Terms Available: semester

Type of Program: Study Abroad

Languages of Instruction: English

Language Prerequisite: N/A

  • Credit Transfer System
    • Typical course load: 5 courses (2 or 4 credits per course)
    • Units recorded in: credits
  • GPA Requirement: 2.8
  • Credits: 18 credits
  • Course Catalog

Application

Application Deadline: Fall: May 1 | Spring: Nov 15
Tanzania Field Guide and Financial Planner
SFS Policies and Procedures
SFS Academic Handbook
Program Application
Program website

Housing: Residence Dorm
Six buildings, or “bandas,“ with two rooms each, 4 people per room in twin bunk beds. Shared desk and shelving unit. En-suite bathroom with shower (hot water) and western-style toilet.

Financial, Immigration

Cost to attend:

Reed College charges the same tuition fees for a semester or year off-campus as for a semester or year spent on campus, plus the program's actual room and board fees. Reed College encourages students to choose programs based on their academic rather than financial needs to reflect Reed's belief that all students, regardless of financial circumstances, should have the opportunity to study abroad.

Financial aid continues for eligible students during the off-campus program. Students should discuss with the Financial Aid Office how other outside aid may impact their existing aid package. Check out more details directly on the Reed College Financial Aid page.

Visa Deadlines and Requirements:

You will receive specific instructions about the necessary visa process from the SFS Admissions Department well in advance of your program. DO NOT apply for a visa prior to receiving these instructions.