Galápagos: Islands of Change

The Galápagos Islands are a spectacular natural treasure, offering a unique opportunity to witness the forces of change, both natural and human. It was here in 1835 that Charles Darwin's observations of different species across the islands shaped groundbreaking ideas on natural selection. The islands themselves are in a constant state of fluxon volcanic hotspots, though the most significant changes today are driven by humans, through habitat destruction and the introduction of non-native species. Fortunately, human efforts, from government agencies to local organizations, also provide hope for the islands' future.

This course is a collaborative effort with the community-led organization  ECOS, a local Galápagos group that focuses on inquiry-driven field science and promoting sustainability practices. This course began with conversations among Dragonfly, the Houston Zoo, and Ecology Project International, and was designed to give students a firsthand look at the forces of change in the Galápagos and empower all of us to contribute to sustainable solutions. The course takes place primarily on Isla Santa Cruz and Isabela Island.

A typical day on this EE course includes exploration and hiking in the local environment, instructor and student-led discussions of key course topics, presentations, and engagement with local community experts, and time for inquiry investigations and journal writing. Prior to and following the field experience in Galápagos, students will complete coursework via Canvas, Miami University's learning management system, as they apply experiences at home.

*** If you're interested in Galápagos: Islands of Change for Summer 2026, let us know by completing this short form. This option is ideal for anyone needing Continuing Education Units or additional graduate credits, those with previous Master's experiences, or Dragonfly alums. We offer a limited number of spots (up to 6) for non-Master's candidates in most of our EE courses. An undergraduate degree is required. ***

Isla Santa Cruz

The second largest of the Galápagos islands, Santa Cruz’s ecosystems include lush, high-elevation forests with lumbering giant tortoises; arid scrubland with tree-sized opuntia cactus; the dark tubular habitats of the island’s lava tubes; rocky intertidal zones dotted with marine iguanas; and turquoise seascapes patrolled by pelican squads. Isla Santa Cruz is also home to the most sizable human population in Galápagos archipelago, making it the best place to study human impacts and conservation solutions.

Puerto Ayora

This tropical town lies on the southern shore of Isla Santa Cruz and is the island’s economic and cultural center. Puerto Ayora is a relaxed, open, and sunny place where you can encounter sea lions on the docks or be visited by some of “Darwin’s” finches while you eat breakfast at an outdoor café. Important locations in town include the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galápagos headquarters of Ecology Project International.

Isla Isabela

Isabela Island is the largest of the archipelago and one of the youngest geologically. Isabela is home to many plant and animal species amidst its active volcanoes. Notable species on the island include Darwin’s finches, fur seals, flightless cormorants, and the well-known Galápagos penguins endemic to Galápagos.