A study abroad program titled Lore and Land of Freedom and Ice is anticipated to run in Iceland from June 2 to June 12, 2026. The program offers students the opportunity to explore Icelandic cultural history through folklore and natural resources, including visits to glaciers, geothermal hot pools, and waterfalls.
Program Overview and Itinerary
Participants will study how people adapted to the environment through beliefs, practices, and artifacts. The itinerary includes visiting sites related to early settlements, the Parliament of the Clans, and the transition between pagan traditions and Christianity.
Students will engage in fieldwork by mapping and recording sheep sorting pens known as réttir. This work is intended to benefit a project sponsored by The University of Iceland's Research Centre in Strandir - The Folklore Institute. Additionally, students will maintain autoethnographic journals to reflect on their experiences.
Fieldwork and Research Opportunities
Academic credit options for the program include 3 credits in ENGL 3700/HIST 3700: Regional Folklore, WILD 2200: Ecology of our Changing World, or HONR 1350: Integrated Life Science.
The program is led by Rosa Thornley, a Senior Lecturer in English, and Sunshine Brosi, a Professor of Wildland Resources. A pre-departure orientation and Canvas course are required during the semester prior to travel.
Faculty Leadership and Requirements
Physical requirements for the program include the ability to walk up to five miles per day over rocky and wet terrain. Students requiring accommodations may contact the Disability Resource Center via email.
Application Information and Contact
While details for the 2026 session are available, the program is not currently accepting applications. Interested students can contact Study Abroad Advisor Jillian Glasser to schedule an appointment.
