Derek J. Martin, Ph.D.

I'm excited to be able to offer our short-term study abroad program to the island of Jamaica for Summer 2027. This 10-day study abroad experience will take students to Jamaica’s quieter, lesser-known southwest coast. Students will learn about the impacts of climate change on Jamaica’s hydrosphere, from the coast to the mountains. They will investigate these topics through field measurement and observation, discussions with stakeholders and community members, and discussions of relevant literature. Students will perform their coursework amongst the stunning backdrop of Jamaica’s southwest coast and its equally vibrant culture, providing them with an unforgettable study abroad experience. In addition to coursework, students will also take excursions including 1) A trip to Jamaica’s famous YS Falls where they will have the opportunity to swim in tropical waterfalls and zipline above them, 2) Snorkeling in Bluefields Bay, 3) A tour of the Appleton Estate to see how one of the Caribbean’s most well-known exports, rum, is produced, 4) A 10-mile coastal boat cruise that will also take them 5 miles up the Black River through one of Jamaica’s largest Mangrove ecosystems, and more!