For the first time, UF is offering a two-week study abroad program to Antarctica and Argentina.
"It's an amazing opportunity for students to study abroad in a destination most of us only dream about," said Kirsten Laufer, a study abroad adviser at UF's International Center.
Students who partake in the six-credit program must take a semester of two online classes before the expedition to Antarctica and Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina, during winter break.
The trip offers students the chance to explore glaciers, 24 hours of daylight and one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife, such as penguins, seals and orcas, Laufer said.
UF chose to offer the program because student interest in the region has increased, she said.
"It's completely independent of the budget," she said. "We've gradually expanded our offerings yearly, and it seemed like a good year to begin running a program in Antarctica."
The cost of the program is $8,976 for undergraduates and $9,666 for graduates. Laufer said the fee covers the cost of student participation and is higher than some of the other study abroad programs offered.
Ten to 12 spots are open for this year's trip, she said, adding a few students have already registered. The deadline to sign up is March 31.
