Iceland: Renewable Energy, Technology, and Resource Economics

  Iceland

Reykjavik

Term: Summer 
Dates: June 11-July 30

Description: Iceland is a world leader in developing the use of renewable energy. While this is partly attributable to the country's ample endowment of geothermal and hydroelectric resources, Icelanders have also made unique economic choices, valuing the social benefits of energy independence differently than much of the world.

The program is divided into three components. In the capital, Reykjavik, students meet with politicians, industry leaders, and social activists to develop their understanding of how Iceland's energy policy fits into the larger national agenda. They then move on to Akureyri, where they study with leading engineers, physicists, and geologists, and visit major sites related to the program's theme. Students spend their last two weeks in the remote West Fjords, working in small communities to help them develop an energy plan. Coursework in the Icelandic language helps students develop a knowledgeable appreciation of the culture.

Highlights: ENGR 3000: Renewable Energy, Technology, and Resource Economics Seminar (6 credits/90 class hours)
Focus on helping students develop mastery of alternative energy technologies, an understanding of the role these technologies play in Iceland's social and political context, and how to apply their knowledge through interaction with remote host communities. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in the field

ICEL 1000: Introduction to Icelandic (2 credits/ 30 class hours)
Classroom and field instruction in the basics of the Icelandic language and the ways in which it reflects the sociocultural identity of the nation.

Educational Excursions:
In addition to key sites in both Reykjavik and Akureyri, students will visit the thermal rift and other key geological sites, as well as energy production facilities of various sizes.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: contact sponsor

Experience Required: yes

Student Eligibility: At least two semesters of college-level work at the time of application and good academic standing with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5. Prerequisites: Previous college-level coursework or other significant preparation in engineering, environmental studies, or related fields.

This Program is open to American and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Iceland in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups

Scholarships are Available. To make study abroad opportunities available to a wide range of students, SIT Study Abroad offers a variety of scholarships. We base all scholarship awards on need and merit. Awards range from $500 to $5,000. For a full list of scholarships, and to download a scholarship application, please visit our web site.

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Transcript
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Job and Internship Network

SIT Study Abroad's Mission Statement: SIT Study Abroad is the accredited higher education institution of World Learning, a private, nonprofit international organization promoting international and intercultural understanding, social justice, and economic development through education, training, and field projects around the globe. SIT prepares students to be interculturally effective leaders, professionals, and citizens through SIT Study Abroad, undergraduate, field-based academic programs operating in more than 50 countries worldwide, and thorough short-term professional training and graduate degrees in language teaching, conflict transformation, international education, social justice in intercultural relations, management, and sustainable development.

Year Founded: 1932