Living Routes Sustainable Living and Creative Expression

  Scotland

Findhorn,  Inverness

Term: Fall, Spring 
Dates: Spring: February 17 - May 26 & Fall: August 30 - December 6

Description: Earn 16 transferable academic credits from UMass Amherst and examine the skills, understanding and practices that are vital to community living at Findhorn - one of the best places to study abroad for sustainability studies and holistic education in the U.K. Findhorn, located on the scenic north coast of Scotland, is an Ecovillage of 400 people renowned for its environmental consciousness, spiritual and personal growth, arts and creativity, education, and global responsibility.

In a beautiful setting among an ancient fishing village, sand dunes and flowering gardens, learn about the integration of human ecology and natural systems as you gain valuable field experience in areas including organic farming, creative expression for sustainbable living, and consensus facilitation. Experience the successes and challenges of living and working sustainably in one of the first intentional communities in the world, which has been awarded a Best Practices designation by the UN Centre for Human Settlements.

The Findhorn Foundation is a demonstration site for sustainable living. Members maintain organic gardens and a community supported agriculture system, two wind-powered turbines and a generator, a "Living Machine" ecological sewage treatment facility, and a "green building" program with over 30 ecological buildings completed (including a green-renovated castle) and a further 30-40 in planning stages. Findhorn is a founding member of the Global Ecovillage Network. The Findhorn Foundation College was formed in 2001 to provide academic and professional training programs by integrating personal development theory and techniques with established educational methods. The college has a holistic learning philosophy that balances development of mind, body, emotions, spirit and relationships within an academic and community context.

Highlights:
* Spend a week on Erraid Island (near the spiritual Isle of Iona) living with a small farming community off Scotland's beautiful west coast.

* Discover ancient Scottish/Celtic traditions and history.

* Become a part of community life by working in bountiful organic gardens, preparing community vegetarian meals with local, organic produce, or other opportunities for integrated action. (see Work Departments sidebar)

* Enjoy world-renowned arts performances and take daily classes in yoga, mediation, 5 rhythms dance, etc.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: 15,500

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Scotland in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 7-12

Scholarships are Available. Living Routes is committed to creating broadly accessible programs and offers its own need-based scholarships. Current financial aid packages from a student's home institution will often transfer, in full or in part to Living Routes UMass accredited programs.

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Transcript
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad