This is a 200-level course that will satisfy the Challenge Seminar requirement in the Challenge Curriculum. In addition, it can be counted as an elective in the Geography, Environmental Studies, and Scandinavian Studies majors.
Highlights:
- Soak in a natural hot spring pool while searching for the magical but elusive Northern Lights.
- Experience Iceland's rich array of art, literature, music, and film, stretching from the thousand-year-old sagas of the medieval Viking era to contemporary Nordic cinema and visual art.
- Discover Iceland's volcanic landscapes, from the freshly-erupted lavas of the 2022 Fagradalsfjall eruption that captivated the world to the geyser for which all others are named.
- Descend into the incomparable beauty of a glacial ice cave and wander among sparkling icebergs washed ashore on a stark, black sand beach.
A contemporary challenge faced by many communities is how to best manage the economic benefits of international tourism while preserving the natural and
cultural attributes that draw visitors in the first place. In this Challenge Seminar, we will engage with this question through the example of Iceland: a sparsely
populated and once isolated nation that, at its pre-pandemic peak, hosted international tourists numbering more than six times its entire national
population. We will immerse ourselves in Iceland’s highly influential folklore, literature, cinema, and music; tour Instagram-famous volcanoes, glaciers,
waterfalls, and hot springs; and hear from community leaders, members of the tourism industry, international visitors, and everyday Icelanders to evaluate
Iceland’s success at striking a balance between development and conservation while embracing a tourism economy.
Locations
The program itinerary includes multiple locations around Iceland, including Reykjavik, Vik, Vatnajokull, and Akureyri.
Academic Calendar
Expected dates:
On-campus orientation: TBD Fall 2023
Study away departure date: Approx. January 6, 2024
Study away arrival date: Approx. January 7, 2024
Study away departure date: Approx. January 24, 2024
Faculty Leaders
Professor
Kjerstin Moody, Scandinavian Studies
Professor
Jeff La Frenierre, Environment, Geography, and Earth Sciences
Accommodation
Anticipated accommodations will include various hostels with shared dormitory style housing.
Program Costs
The program fee is $6,385. The fee will cover, accommodations, two meals daily, transportation within Iceland, excursions and admissions, and international travel health insurance.
Please note that international airfare is not included. Students will be responsible for meeting the program in Reykjavik, Iceland, but the CICE can help advise students who want to travel together about flight options. Students should confer with faculty leaders before booking their air tickets. Please plan to budget approximately $1,000 to $1,500 for international plane tickets and $500 to $1,000 for personal expenses.
Scholarships
Students with significant financial need or other barriers to participation may apply for a j-term scholarship here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdcmWZADM8RuNdi8v6g7PmDR5E4iGZ5ofXEPV_kxGNlQL7NZQ/viewform?usp=sf_link
J-term scholarships are very limited in number and typically offer modest support of $500-$750.
The deadline to apply for a j-term scholarship is May 1st.
Eligibility
All Gustavus Adolphus College students who meet the general study away requirements are welcome to apply.
Application Deadline
Students must complete the online application by May 1, 2023.
Entry visas and passports
US citizens can stay in Iceland visa free for up to 90 days. All students who are not U.S. citizens should contact Mathew Hirman about possible additional visa needs. All program participants must have a passport that is valid through at least July 31, 2024, by the start of Fall 2023 semester.
The information in this online brochure is subject to change. Please contact CICE with questions.