Dominican Republic
Development, Conservation, and Health in the Dominican Republic
This trip is for students who want to dive deep into the fascinating intersection of politics, sustainability, and real-world environmental challenges.
Traveling to the Dominican Republic with the Honors College offers a chance to study the lush natural wonders of Las Terrenas — from its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to its tranquil mangrove wetlands and powerful natural springs. You'll engage in hands-on, community-driven research, exploring how local environmental issues collide with political and economic forces, both on a national and global scale.
*Enrollment in HON 4397, ENRG 4397, POLS 3396 for Spring 2026 is required.
This interdisciplinary course prepares students to travel to the Dominican Republic, specifically the beautiful beachside community of Las Terrenas, to better understand the opportunities and challenges that a developing country faces protecting their environmental resources, including beaches, wetland, and coral reefs, while ensuring their people have access to good jobs, quality education, and good healthcare. The course will also prepare students to work with local partners on community-engaged, service-learning projects to better understand and address these and related issues. Instructor permission is required to enroll, and enrollment in the course is required for the trip.
TRIP DATES: May 27 - June 8, 2026
TESTIMONIALS
"Traveling abroad to the Domincan Republic is not just about giving back but about learning from the vibrant culture, forging deep connections and embracing the shared humanity that trancends borders" -Weidy Rodriguez-Castro
"Studying abroad in the Dominican Republic was an unforgettable journey that broadened my perspective and introduced me to a world beyond what I ever imagined."-Rex Kidd
"I feel incredibly fortunate to have traveled with the Honors College. My trip to the Dominican Republic was a transformative experience that helped me grow both academically and personally. Traveling alongside newfound friends and knowledgeable professors made the journey even more meaningful. The deep connections we formed with the local community, along with the breathtaking sights we encountered, are memories I will carry with me long after my college years." - Alex Ellis
"Studying abroad in the Dominican Republic was an amazing experience that opened my eyes to a vibrant culture and a whole new way of seeing the world.
TRIP ITINIERARY
Drs. Jonathan Williamson and Nicolas Jacobsen will lead this unforgettable trip to the Dominican Republic, blending cultural exploration, service learning with academic learning. Their expertise will guide students through community service projects and local traditions, offering a unique, immersive experience that promises lasting memories.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Colonial Zone | Mangroves | Local Community | Beaches |
| Tour the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo, the home of the first permanent European settlement in the New World. | Work with local partners on long-term research projects seeking to reestablish mangroves that protect the coastline. | Meet with community leaders to explore ways help local families and communities. | Enjoy the picturesque beaches. |
FAQs
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to travel to the Dominican Republic.
Learn more at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/DominicanRepublic.html
Yes! The University of Houston Passport for Coogs office offers passports for all students. Students are responsible for getting a valid passport well in advance of the trip. Your passport should be valid for at least three months past your departure date from the Dominican Republic.
We will generally stay in comfortable, air-conditioned hotels in Santo Domingo and Las Terrenas. While the itinerary is being finalized, accommodations for one or two nights may be a bit more primitive to allow for sustained projects working in a more remote community.
