Project Description
New Program! All new programs for summer 2025 are currently under review by IFR’s Academic Board. We anticipate offering this program, but changes may be made during the review process.
Overview
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and lush landscapes of Pohnpei, Micronesia’s “Garden Island,” through this hands-on archaeology field school. Formed by an extinct shield volcano and surrounded by pristine reefs, Pohnpei offers a stunning setting to explore ancient food production systems and landscape management practices. Building on decades of research, including recent LiDAR imaging that has uncovered hidden features beneath the island’s dense vegetation, you’ll engage in fieldwork such as pedestrian surveys, excavations, mapping, and sample collection. You’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate closely with local communities, contributing to meaningful research that deepens our understanding of Pohnpei’s agricultural history and its connection to the island’s chiefly social systems. Outside of fieldwork, enjoy enriching experiences like visiting cultural heritage sites, sampling local foods, and exploring the island’s natural beauty through activities like swimming and snorkeling around the vibrant coral reefs.
Field school highlights:
- Understand the intersection of archaeology, ecology, and anthropology as you study how ancient Pohnpeian societies shaped and adapted to their environment over millennia.
- Work closely with Pohnpeian communities, gaining insight into the island’s traditions and contemporary life while contributing to meaningful research
- Explore the cultural and natural wonders of Micronesia, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nan Madol, the Pohnpaid petroglyphs, and Sokehs Rock
Instructors
The directors welcome emails and inquiries about the research elements of this project. More general information (tuition, health insurance, and payment schedule) can be found under the ‘Students’ tab above. Any further questions may be addressed to IFR staff. Additional details about research, course schedule, travel, accommodation, and safety can be found on the syllabus. Contacting the directors or the IFR office is encouraged and appreciated. It may help you determine if this field school is a good fit for you.
Testimonials
This is a new IFR field school. No student testimonials are available at this time.
Payment & Student Fees
Application Fee: There is a $45 fee to submit an online application.
Deposit Payment: A nonrefundable $500 deposit is due within 3 weeks of program acceptance in order to secure your place. The remainder of your program fees are due by the deadline indicated under “Course Details”.
*Transcript Fee & Academic Credit Opt Out: If you wish to participate in an IFR field school without earning academic credits, you will not be charged a transcript fee.
For more information about payment, fees, and policies, please see details under our Payment & Finances and Withdrawal and Cancellation Policy pages.
Accommodations
Our field research program is hosted at a 3-star hotel centrally located in Kolonia Town, Pohnpei. The hotel offers a selection of one, two, and three-person rooms, each featuring a private bathroom with a hot shower and air conditioning to ensure a comfortable stay. With convenient on-site coin laundry and regular room cleaning, you’ll feel right at home. Enjoy easy access to local restaurants and shops, with some rooms offering kitchen facilities for self-catering.
Meals: We provide nutritious lunches in the field, while breakfast and dinner are yours to explore in town. Dietary restrictions are manageable with careful planning, and local markets offer fresh produce and a variety of foods. The Field School Director will work with you to discuss dietary concerns and accommodation preferences.
![Micronesia Pohnpei](https://ifrglobal.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Micronesia-Pohnpei.jpg)
![Micronesia_ Pohnpei](https://ifrglobal.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Micronesia_-Pohnpei.jpg)
Travel Info
Natural disasters, political changes, weather conditions and various other factors may force the cancellation or alteration of a field school. IFR recommends students only purchase airline tickets that are fully refundable and consider travel insurance in case a program or travel plans must change for any reason.
General information for this program is below, but keep in mind we will discuss any updated travel information and regulations during the required program orientation, which could affect travel plans.
Travel Info Coming Soon!
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Info for US citizens coming soon! Citizens of other countries are asked to check the embassy website page at their home country for specific visa requirements