This is an intensive, 11-day course is designed for majors in biology, natural science, and related fields but there are no prerequisites and the course is open to all.  We will examine the biological diversity and natural resources of China and consider current pressures on sustainability of diversity and the natural resources in the context of Chinese culture and history.

We will visit and study at several animal and plant reserves/ museums in northeast China, in addition to learning about China's sustainability efforts and gaining knowledge about this ancient and rapidly changing culture. We will explore Beijing, the current capital of China, which also served as the capital of five dynasties over a period of 800 years.  We will visit the Summer Palace, the Temple of Heaven, the Forbidden City with its ancient Imperial Palace, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall of China, and the Ming Tombs.

We will experience traditional food and numerous opportunities will be provided for interactions with the Chinese people. Students will research an issue in diversity or sustainability before and during the trip and make a final presentation to the group.