Baja California Sur (BCS) is one of the least populated states in Mexico; however,
it is home to a rich cultural heritage that extends over 12000 years. Furthermore,
as a desert environment with over 1000 miles of coastline that exists at the intersection
of tropical and sub-tropical climates, the region is home to massive ecological and
biological diversity. Currently, BCS is experiencing major cultural and ecological
changes and challenges as populations from mainland Mexico, the USA, and Canada migrate
to the region either as temporary workers, tourists, or permanent residents. This
course offers students the opportunity to examine the intersection of BCS’s culture,
history, and ecology through an anthropological and ecological lens, using the pueblo
of Todos Santos as a case site. Students will apply ethnographic methods to answer
research questions related to the growth of the population, social relationships within
the community, and sustainable development.
Research Experience: Students will perform ethnographic, ecological, and historical research focused on
culture change and ecosystem dynamics in the Cape region of Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Students will collect and synthesize primary data, as well as write-up research findings
in an academic format.
Community Engagement: Students will work with local NGOs and other grassroots organizations committed to community development and ecological sustainability. Projects include beach deplastification and English language training. Students will collaborate with local residents to record regional histories, traditional knowledge, and the constraints and opportunities to sustainable development
Students will receive 6 hours of University of Utah anthropology credit. Students will stay in dorm-style housing in the Todos Santos Community Center. Breakfasts are provided by the center, students are responsible for lunches/dinners.
Both restaurants and a grocery store are within walking distance of the Center. Accommodations
include a full kitchen available for students to cook/store personal meals. Experience
local night-life, culture, and cuisine in the walkable Todos Santos Historic District.
Culture, Ecology, & Sustainability Field School
The course fees (~$4580) cover tuition, lodging, breakfasts, transportation within
Mexico including transportation to and from the airport, excursion costs, and in-ternational
health insurance. This fee does *not* include airfare to/from Mexico, passport, lunches/dinners, and personal expenses.
The program also includes the following Excursions and Day Activities:
- Sierra de La Laguna Biosphere Reserve: 3-Day, 2-Night Camping Trip (all camping gear provided, plus food, and showers). Experience living with traditional ranchers.
- Sea of Cortez & Isla Espiritu Santo: 3-Day, 2-Night Glamping Trip (all camping gear provided, plus food, and showers). Snorkle the Sea of Cortez and learn about marine conservation.
- Rancho Cacachillas: 3-Day, 2-Night Glamping Trip (all camping gear provided, plus food, and showers). Learning about human eco-system conservation at a private reserve.
- Punta Lobos: Half-day boat trip on the Pacific Ocean with traditional fishermen
- Todos Santos Cultural Heritage Center Day Activity
- Participate in intercultural English language opportunities with local residents
- Community service: Ocean deplastification at the Todos Santos beach.