The Program
The Iceland Program will traverse some of the most unique and fascinating geological and biological landscapes that can be found nowhere else on the planet. Our journey will begin on the Reykjanes Peninsula, where we will visit critical nesting grounds and assist scientists with ongoing oystercatcher research. We will then travel southeast where we will learn about the impacts of climate change as we backpack between glaciers and explore glacial lagoons. In East Iceland we will observe puffins and seals, study plant diversity, discuss criteria for sustainable fisheries, and learn about the challenges that Iceland has faced due to deforestation and the damming of glacial rivers. Next, we will head to the Melrakkasletta Peninsula, the northernmost region of Iceland, where we will spend a week at an Icelandic research station and assist with coastal and marine monitoring efforts across a tundra landscape. Next, we make our way west to learn about geothermal energy as we visit the geologically active Myvatn region, discuss and debate sustenance hunting as we interact with communities founded on whaling, and reside at remote farms to learn about the importance of agriculture in Iceland. In the West Fjords we will study iconic Arctic species as we visit the Arctic Fox Centre, and complete a project focused on marine debris at Rauðasandur beach. Finally, as we head south toward the capital region, we will explore the tidal environment in Snæfellsnes National Park, and study seismology in Þingvellir National Park, where the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates is situated. From active participation in research, interacting with various stakeholders, trekking across diverse landscapes, and reflecting in our scientific journals while immersed in nature, the Iceland Program is guaranteed to provide students with a deep understanding of the Arctic, the environmental challenges that this region is facing at an unprecedented rate, and the measures that can be taken to solve complex, environmental challenges.
Program Details
Location: Reykjavik, Iceland
Dates: Summer 2024: June 21 – August 3, 2024
Applications: Accepted on a rolling admission basis
Accommodations: Primarily camping, occasional youth hostel or rural lodge
Credits: 15 quarter credits or 10 semester credits
Language: English instruction
Courses: Environmental Wildlands Studies, Environmental Field Survey, Wildlands Environment and Culture
Prerequisites: One college level course in environmental studies, environmental science, ecology or similar. 18 years of age
Program Costs
Iceland Summer 2024
$ 150 Application Fee
$ 7,000 Program Fee
$ 4,900 In-Country Logistics Fee
$ 1,400 Estimated Airfare and Mandatory Travel Insurance
$ 1,400 Estimated Food and Personal Expenses
$14,850 Total Estimated Cost
Summer 2024: Program fees due by May 1, 2024
