The 4-week independent field study is conducted in the last month of the
semester, after the elective course work has been completed. Students work
independently in placements which are organized by the program with
various government agencies, research groups, and non-governmental organizations.
This experience is designed to allow students to explore in some depth issues raised in the core course. In the past, independent field study placements have allowed students to pursue interests in: animal behavior, aquaculture, archaeology, biochemical research, health development, ecology, economics, financial management and planning, geology, marketing research and development, medicine, ranch management, rural development, teaching, and veterinary medicine. Certain field study placements require students to have substantial academic or practical experience, especially those in the sciences and business.
In place of the independent field study, students can choose to take an advanced topical study in biology with the program Director.