Program Overview
The Creation Care Study Program (CCSP) offers an exceptional academic semester abroad in Belize or New Zealand (and Samoa), designed to connect Christian faith with critical global environmental issues. This immersive program is tailored for students seeking a profound understanding of environmental studies and sustainable development, all while nurturing spiritual growth within a vibrant Christian community. CCSP provides a unique cross-cultural and interdisciplinary learning experience, making it an ideal choice for students across various majors, particularly those in intercultural studies, biology, and sociology.
Through CCSP, students gain firsthand experience interacting with local communities and exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of Belize and New Zealand. The CCSP-Belize program features captivating excursions to ancient Mayan ruins, unparalleled snorkeling adventures on the world’s second-largest barrier reef, and immersive explorations of untouched rainforests. These experiences provide invaluable insights into ecological diversity and conservation challenges.
For students choosing the CCSP-South Pacific semester, the program is based on New Zealand’s picturesque South Island. This location offers stunning ocean proximity combined with majestic views of the Southern Alps. A significant component of the South Pacific program is an extended field study to the remote and idyllic island of Samoa. Both the CCSP-Belize and CCSP-South Pacific programs emphasize cultural immersion through homestays with local families, alongside offering generous opportunities for independent travel, fostering personal growth and global awareness.
To enroll in the Creation Care Studies Program, students must complete an application via Biola University’s Study Abroad program for initial review. Crucially, a separate application to the program provider, Creation Care Studies Program, is also required. Acceptance into the program necessitates approval from both Biola Study Abroad and the Creation Care Studies Program provider, ensuring a cohesive and supportive study abroad experience.
2024–25 Program Costs (Before Financial Aid)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 2024–2025 Biola Semester Tuition | $24,492 |
| Program Fees (e.g. Room and Board, Educational Excursions) | $5,750 |
| Non-Refundable Biola Administrative Fee | $500 |
| International Health Insurance (Estimate) | $248 |
| Estimated Program Cost | $30,990 |
Please note that airfare, travel visa expenses, local transportation costs, and textbooks are not included in the program cost. Accommodation will be in shared housing or apartments throughout the semester. Students accepted into the program will receive a bill for the Program Cost as detailed above. This total is before any financial aid considerations. For detailed information regarding study abroad financial aid options, please contact The Office of Financial Aid.
Program Dates
Fall Semester 2024: August 21—December 5, 2024
Spring Semester 2025: January 29—May 15, 2025
Course Equivalencies
For a detailed list of Creation Care Studies Program Course Equivalencies for each program location, please refer to the provided resources.
