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UofGH Global Learning Opportunities

UofGH Global Learning Opportunities

Do you have a passion for learning and travel? Would you like to combine them into a global learning experience? Do you enjoy learning from new and diverse perspectives? If so, you are on the right page!

The University of Guelph-Humber is excited to introduce and offer the following global learning opportunities for all current UofGH students for summer 2023 semester

UofGH Study Tours (previously known as Study Abroad)

UofGH Study Tours are 0.5 credit General Elective courses offered during the summer semester. All current UofGH students can apply for any one of the following 2023 study tours:

AUSTRIA: DOWN THE DANUBE RIVER TO VIENNA

This course takes you on a magical and breathtaking tour along the banks of the famous Danube River, Europe’s second longest river. Our group travels in a safe, leisurely fashion by bicycle from Passau, Germany to Vienna, Austria. We enjoy the serene and picturesque Upper Austrian countryside, with its verdant landscapes, historical castles, monasteries and fortresses, medieval hamlets, and outdoor markets, in an immersive experience with authentic Austrian rural culture. After completing the cycling portion of our tour, we spend time in Vienna taking in its stunning architecture and tasting its world-famous cuisine and coffee. In Vienna, we learn about some of its most notable residents, such as Ludwig van Beethoven and Wolfgang Mozart, founder of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud, and the royal Habsburg Family, who ruled large parts of Europe into the 20th century. The tour also includes a train trip to Salzburg, famous as the birthplace of Mozart and the location for The Sound of Music. This trip will be an unforgettable Central European cultural experience, especially if you are looking to encounter a more laidback and relaxed pace of life for 12 days.

*0.5 General Elective Credit

Projected Dates: July 3 – 14, 2023 | Course Director: Michael Tam, Instructor, Business
NOTE: Travel dates may change +/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability.

Physical Activity: Active

GERMANY & MALTA: THE SECOND WORLD WAR

World War II is the defining event of the modern era. This study tour takes students to Germany and Malta to understand the causes and consequences of the global conflict. In Germany, the itinerary includes: Munich, where Hitler’s political activities began; Dachau, site of the first concentration camp; and Nuremberg, where the war crimes trials of Nazi leaders occurred. In Malta, students will visit several World War II sites, including the Lascaris War Rooms in Valletta. Beyond the topic of war, students will also have an opportunity to explore dimensions of human existence associated with beauty by touring Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany as well as exploring Malta’s Mediterranean scenery.

*0.5 General Elective Credit

Projected Dates: May 14 – 24, 2023 | Course Director: Matthew LaGrone, Program Head, Liberal Studies
NOTE: Travel dates may change +/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability.

Physical Activity: Moderate

ITALY: THE WORLD THROUGH A CHILD'S EYES

In Italy, students will explore the world around the child through their perspectives and experience. The course will focus on the role of art and play in children’s lives through history to the present day while immersed in the natural beauty of the Italian countryside. Respecting the whole child will be a key theme of the course, exploring their right to education, play, creativity, nature and more. Depending on availability, we also plan to visit UNICEF, Pompeii and Reggio Emilia.

*0.5 General Elective Credit

Projected Dates: May 15 – 26, 2023 | Course Director: Carri-Ann Scott, Acting Assistant Program Head, Early Childhood Studies
NOTE: Travel dates may change +/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability.

Physical Activity: Moderate

JAPAN: SOKA EDUCATION AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS

Soka education is a humanistic self-empowerment philosophy of living that promotes the idea that individual happiness and global harmony can be attained through actions to create value in one's own life and in the lives of others. Soka, originating in Japan, is founded on Buddhist principles and holds as its core belief that everyone has an inner potential that is both the cause and effect of their own ultimate happiness. This trip introduces students to the practice of Soka philosophy while also exploring the beauty of Japanese culture. From busy metropolitan cities to beachside towns and mountain tops, our travels take us to Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Kamakura. We visit ancient Buddhist temples, Shinto Shrines, peaceful Japanese gardens, Hiroshima Peace Park, and iconic shopping districts. We visit Soka Kansai High School and Soka University allowing students to have an authentic Soka experience while building meaningful relationships in the process. Whether by foot, subway, or bullet train students will experience Japanese culture, Soka philosophy and the true meaning of happiness.

*0.5 General Elective Credit

Projected Dates: May 12 – 24, 2023 | Course Director: Olivia Boukydis, Assistant Program Head, Community and Social Services
NOTE: Travel dates may change +/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability.

Physical Activity: Moderate

MOROCCO: NORTH AFRICAN CULTURE

The Berbers, medinas, souks, mosques and sand dunes have long fascinated visitors to Morocco. This course explores the history and rich culture of the westernmost country of the Maghreb in North Africa. Students will visit Casablanca, Fes, Merzouga, and Marrakech where they will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional home-cooked Moroccan meals, explore high-walled kasbahs, wander the labyrinthine alleys of Morocco’s world heritage sites and take in the breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains. The students will also enjoy the natural beauty of the Sahara Desert while riding a camel.

Projected Dates: May 9 – 19, 2023 | Course Director: Glenn Hanna, Assistant Program Head, Justice Studies
NOTE: Travel dates may change +/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability.

Physical Activity: Moderate

NEW ZEALAND: FITNESS, SPORT AND HEALTH PROMOTION IN AUSTRALASIA

In this course, students will study abroad in New Zealand and explore the interplay between sport, fitness, health, and culture in Australasian society. Students will visit the esteemed Auckland University of Technology provided teaching on the topics of sports science, fitness and performance programs for the elderly and children, sport and culture, and nutrition. Students will be introduced to health promotion strategies in Australasian society with a focus on health implications for the local population with blended western and Indigenous cultures. We will also immerse ourselves in the local culture taking part in activities such as white-water rafting, hiking, zorbing, zip-lining, and mountain biking.

*0.5 General Elective Credit

Projected Dates: May 24 – June 4, 2023 | Course Director: Justine Tishinsky, Instructor, Kinesiology
NOTE: Travel dates may change +/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability.

Physical Activity: Active

SCOTLAND & ENGLAND: HAUNTING VISITORS

In this study abroad course, students visit several old cities in the United Kingdom, famous for their connections to stories about ghostly specters, macabre events, and legendary figures. Students will have an opportunity to witness settings of “haunted heritage” up close and firsthand. This course explores the connections between local history, narrative, and commercial tourism in regions of Scotland and England known for their rich supernatural ancestry. Through visits to London, Edinburgh, and York, students will experience the touristic performance of the paranormal. Key concepts from various disciplines will come to life, including tourist and consumer studies, folklore, media studies, performance and theatre, and narratology.

*0.5 General Elective Credit

Projected Dates: May 10 – 20, 2023| Course Director: Greg Kelley, Instructor, Media Studies
NOTE: Travel dates may change +/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability.

Physical Activity: Moderate 

Physical Activity Legend

Standard Eligibility and Admission Criteria

Admission to UofGH Study Tours is competitive. Applicants will be assessed on the strength of their overall application including:

  • Academic suitability
    • Applicants must meet the admission requirements and be in good academic standing
  • Completed and signed application
    • The online application will collect your personal information and will also ask for a personal statement (500 word maximum) addressing the following questions:
      • Why are you interested in going on a UofGH Study Tour? How does this course fit with your personal goals?
      • Describe how your academic background has prepared you for the course you have selected. How does this course fit with your academic goals and requirements?
      • Briefly outline a situation that required you to adapt to an environment or situation that you found challenging and describe how you coped with this?
  • First non-refundable deposit of $750
    • Students are required to pay an initial deposit to secure his/her place in the course. Those who do not get admitted to a course will receive a refund of the initial deposit

 

Course Components and Requirements

  • Mandatory classes, including one pre-departure orientation
  • Study tour (~9-10 days)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?

The cost of all courses will be $2,500 or $3,000 CDN plus tuition for a standard 0.5 credit summer course.

What does my payment cover?

Flight, accommodations, as well as transport and entrance costs associated with required itinerary visits. Food and entertainment are not covered and must be separately funded by the student.

When do I pay?

You do not have to pay all at once. Payment will be collected in three (3) installments. The details and due dates for the three installments are as follows:

Deposits: All courses (except for Japan, New Zealand, Singapore (ECS-DC)) Japan, New Zealand, Singapore (ECS-DC) Due Date
1st Deposit $750 $750 November 16, 2022
2nd Deposit $875 $1,125 February 20, 2023
3rd Deposit $875 $1,125 March 31, 2023
TOTAL $2,500 $3,000  

Tuition for the course will be due in May. Deposits are non-refundable, except where the course is cancelled or the student is not admitted into the course.

How do I pay?

You pay your study abroad deposits via WebAdvisor. Follow these steps:
  • Step 1: Submit online application
  • Step 2: Receive an email indicating that a deposit charge has been applied to your WebAdvisor account
  • Step 3: Pay deposit amount (same way as you pay tuition; click here to see methods of payment)

Is there funding available?

Like every year, the university is offering the Study Abroad Travel Grants. A student in each study abroad course with the highest cumulative GPA automatically receives the University of Guelph-Humber Travel Grant. In addition, there are 50 University of Guelph-Humber Study Abroad Travel Grants for students with above 70% cumulative average who demonstrate financial need.

For all those interested, in the University of Guelph-Humber Study Abroad Travel Grant, we highly encourage you to submit a Financial Need Assessment Form by January 6, 2023 to be considered.

ECS online students selected for the Singapore Study Abroad with demonstrated financial need are encouraged to submit a Hybrid/On-Line Study Abroad Travel Grant Application by January 6, 2023

To apply and obtain more information, please click here to learn more about Awards and Bursaries for In-Course Students or email Student Financial Services at finaid@guelphhumber.ca.

What are the prerequisites to get into the course?

Course directors decide who is admitted based on the eligibility requirements and space availability. To begin with, students must be in good academic standing. If there are more applicants than available space, the instructor will consider both the previous academic performance and year of the student. If you are not admitted, your deposit will be returned.

Will I receive academic credit?

Yes! Students who successfully complete all the required components of the Study Abroad course will be awarded a 0.5 credit.

Do I have to take the course that is geared towards my program?

No, this is not a requirement. Students have the option to apply for any of the study abroad course of their choice, with the exception of the Singapore Study Tour, which is restricted to ECS – DC students.

Can I apply for more than one study abroad course?

Students can apply for one study tour per academic year. We want to ensure opportunity to for as many students as possible.

Can I apply if I am a 4th year student?

Yes, you can still apply; however, if you plan to apply for June graduation, the Study Tour will not provide you with a credit toward June convocation. Final grades are submitted no earlier than late June.

How long are the trips?

Generally, 10-12 days including travel days.

How many students are in each course?

Up to 12 students are admitted for each Study Tour.

How much free time is allotted within the trip?

This decision is at the discretion of the course director.

Do I have to travel to/from destination with the study abroad group?

Yes, you are required to leave Toronto with your Study Tour group. You can, however, extend your stay and change your return ticket date after the last day of your official Study Tour. Please note that all students are assigned a round-trip ticket and you (the student) are responsible for re-scheduling your return ticket. All change/rescheduling fees as well difference in airfare, etc. will need to be incurred by you.

Should you choose to extend your stay or change your departure city, you will need to inform your course director as soon as possible. You will also be required to submit a student waiver form and return it to either Sonika Arora or Farrah Lutchmansingh.

Humber Global Summer School

This July, University of Guelph-Humber students will have an opportunity to take a General Electives course at Humber’s Global Summer School, where over 500 students from 45 different academic programs, 33 academic institutions and 35 countries worldwide have participated. Get ready for experiences that you’ll never forget: lifelong friends, exceptional conversations, industry connections and insight into Canadian culture this summer!

The intensive, three-week Global Summer School courses meet daily (Monday-Friday) from July 4 – 21, 2023. Classes are typically held in the morning, with afternoons and evenings reserved for optional events and activities. Classes are held on the Humber College campus. The five courses that are available to University of Guelph-Humber students are as follows:

Intercultural Communications

Are you looking to work internationally or in a different cultural environment? Anticipating making connections with people as you travel or study abroad? From global organizations to personal connections, understanding intercultural communication will help you relate in a meaningful way across borders. Get the skills that will set you apart on the globalized stage!

Evaluating your own culture, values, beliefs, biases, and identities, this course will help you adapt on the international stage. Grow your understanding and appreciation of cultural differences as you learn conflict management techniques, strategies for living and working overseas, and working/communicating effectively within your communities and workplace.

Health and Wellness Concepts

Wellness should be everyone’s priority, but where do you get started? On the path to health and wellness, there is so much information, determinants, and dimensions to consider. The Health and Wellness Concept course offers students from around the world the unique opportunity to explore these diverse concepts of health and wellness, identify causes and risk factors that affect health and wellness, and how to promote health and wellness to an individual, community and workplace locally, nationwide and internationally.

We will focus closely on developing health literacy skills and health promoting behaviours. At the end of the course, you will develop health goals and achieve them! This course includes an optional one-week observational practicum add-on (July 22-29, 2023).

Social Media

Do you connect with friends on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube or Twitter? Do you read reviews on social media before checking out a company in-person? Do you ever wonder why online advertising seems to read your mind? Social media is reshaping our communication on every personal and professional level!

Stay ahead of the digital marketing curve and learn the fundamental skills needed to stay competitive in your desired industry with the Social Media course, in conjunction with Business Academy Aarhus and Dania Academy (Denmark). By using hands-on experience, this course will give you the required expertise to plan, execute, and monitor social media strategies, with the tools industry leaders are already using.

Transformational Leadership and Advocacy

Leaders are essential in any organization’s longevity, but particularly in advocacy. Become a leader who inspires, motivates, influences, and builds a top-team with the Transformational Leadership and Advocacy course. If you are looking to thrive as a leader, in ever-changing environments, you need the tools that are central to this course: concepts of leadership, how to engage others, and development of vision in leadership. Most importantly, you’ll leave knowing how to empower others to become their own leaders, through mobilization, and advocacy. You’ll see these practices in action with virtual community visits from a variety of non-profit organizations in Toronto.

The Podcast Primer

In the space of just two decades, podcasting has become one of the most ubiquitous forms of media, providing hours of content for listeners, opportunities for new voices and new approaches to storytelling, and leading to the creation of a dynamic industry with billions of dollars. Everyone from news outlets to activists to corporate brands are all using and experimenting with the podcast to try and reach a steadily growing audience. This course will introduce students to the best practices of developing and producing an original podcast with the goal of having students leave the class with a fully realized plan to create a pilot of their own podcast.

Why Join Humber’s Global Humber School?

  • Work on real-world projects for elective credit
  • Expand your professional and personal global network
  • Learn from Humber faculty and industry experts
  • Enhance your intercultural communication skills
  • Flexible learning option – earn academic credit in an intensive 3-week course (classes typically run Monday to Friday from 8:30 am - 11:30 am)

Please note there are limited space available for each course, and admission is not guaranteed. So, hurry and APPLY NOW by connecting with your Academic Advisor for help with the application process. The deadline to apply is Monday, April 3, 2023.

Semester Elsewhere

The University of Guelph-Humber Semester Elsewhere opportunities are designed to provide students’ with an exciting learning experience that will take them well beyond the classroom.

Apply to go on an international exchange for a semester and receive academic credit. The University of Guelph-Humber has exchange partners across the world, including the Netherlands, Austria and Ireland.

Below you will find all the necessary information relating to the University of Guelph-Humber’s International Exchange program.

Who is eligible to go on exchange?

Any University of Guelph-Humber student in good academic standing can participate in the Semester Elsewhere program.

What are the requirements?

  • Good academic standing
  • Minimum cumulative GPA defined by the host institution

Why is it beneficial to participate in the Semester Elsewhere program?

  • Experience a new culture while studying abroad
  • Gain a new global perspective
  • Opportunity to travel and see the world
  • Learn and grow personally and professionally
  • Build an international network
  • Develop your leadership skills
  • Learn new language skills
  • Discover possible international career opportunities
  • Form new and rewarding relationships
  • Great for resume

When can you go?

Students can participate in the international exchange program in the winter, summer or semester.

Where can you go?

  • Avans University of Applied Sciences– Netherlands
  • Avans University of Applied Sciences– Netherlands
  • Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Groningen
  • Universidad de San Andres – Argentina
  •  
  • Haute Ecole Ephec  (Ephec University College) - Belgium
  •  
  • Soka University - operating as the Faculty of Education ("Soka") - (Tokyo, Japan)
  • IQS - Institute Quimic De Sarria Cets, Fundacio Privada - Spain
  • Management Center Innsbruck "MCI" – Austria
  • Pontifical Catholic University of Peru -Peru
  •  
  • University Colleges Leuven-Limburg – Belgium
  •  
  • University of Ribeirao Preto - Brazil
  •  
  • Solbridge International School of Business - Daejeon, Republic of Korea
  •  
  • University of Ulster – Northern Ireland
  • University Center of Anj/Polis (aka UniEVANGELICA) - Brazil

What should you consider when choosing an exchange program/institution?

  • Courses available at host institution and their equivalency to a specific course within your current program
  • Host institutions academic dates and requirements
  • Availability of courses in the semester you intend to study abroad
  • Cost of living

Application Process

  1. Conduct initial research on potential host institution(s), program of interest, and courses offered
  2. Set up an appointment to meet with the Assistant Vice-Provost, Dr. George Bragues to discuss your interest and opportunities available
  3. Request for Letter of Permission (LOP) through your Academic Advisor. Click here for more information on Letter of Permission.
  4. Complete any additional application requirement(s) of the host institution
  5. Be mindful of application deadline and submit early

Deadline to apply for an Exchange program varies. Please check the application deadline date for your host institution. We recommend you submit your applications by mid-to-end April for Fall, and mid-to-late September for Winter.

Cost & expenses

Costs will vary by country and the host institution. Please conduct some research to estimate the costs associated with your trip. Here are some of the major costs and expenses you should consider when deciding on an exchange program.

Tuition

Students participating in an exchange program generally pay tuition fees to the University of Guelph-Humber. In some cases, students currently pay tuition fees directly to the host institution. Please check the tuition fees requirements and deadline with your host institution. Students are responsible for other expenses such as books.

Accommodations

Students may have access to residence at their host institution. In general, the International office at all host institutions assist students in finding accommodations.

Travel

Your provincial health plan will probably not cover you the entirety of your medical expenses while travelling. Check if the host institution offers health coverage to visiting students. If not, we strongly suggest you to purchase a good, comprehensive, private health insurance before you go.

Other Fees

Students are responsible for any other fees such as visas, passport, and vaccinations not covered by your provincial health plan.