Global Learning Opportunities
Are you passionate about both learning and travel? Looking to combine them into an enriching global experience? Do you thrive on discovering new and diverse perspectives?
Whether you're passionate about experiencing new cultures, expanding your global perspective, or enhancing your career prospects, U of GH offers dynamic ways to combine learning and travel. Explore our Semester Elsewhere program to study abroad and earn academic credits in destinations like the Netherlands, Austria, and Ireland. From international experiences to collaborative learning, discover how you can build your future while exploring the world.
We believe in preparing students for a global future, which is why our international partnerships are such a key part of what we offer. Through these collaborations, students have the chance to engage with different cultures, participate in exchange programs, and work on global projects. This not only enhances their academic experience, but it also helps students build critical skills like communication, problem-solving, and cultural awareness.
The following global learning opportunities are available to all current U of GH students:
U of GH Study Abroad
Join the University of Guelph-Humber’s Study Abroad program this spring and summer and step out of the classroom to explore diverse cultures! You can choose from various countries, allowing you to customize your experience to your interests. Earn academic credit while gaining hands-on experience and making meaningful connections. Don’t miss this chance for an unforgettable journey with us!
UofGH Study Abroad are 0.5 credit General Elective courses offered during the summer semester. All current UofGH students can apply for ONE study tour.
ECUADOR & GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS: CLIMATE CHANGE
Participating in a study tour of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, students will learn about what the environmental and psychological sciences can tell us about human responses to the climate crisis. Partnering with the Universidad San Francisco de Quito, students will experience Cumbayá in Quito and San Cristobal Island in the Galápagos Archipelago, engaging with scientists, conservationists, and local communities actively seeking climate solutions. Students receive an experiential learning experience, combining lectures from USFQ professors, expert-guided tours, insights from Parque Nacional Galápagos Island rangers, and community-engaged activities. These experiences will enable students to better understand the impact of human behaviors and institutions on Earth's resource preservation. Ultimately, the course equips students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to navigate an uncertain future and contribute to sustainability.
*0.5 General Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 14 - 23, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Director: Adam Sandford, Associate Head of Psychology
ENGLAND AND WALES: THE SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING OF SOCCER
This course offers an exploration of social media marketing and branded content, using the TV series "Welcome to Wrexham" and Manchester City F.C.’s innovative social media, as primary case studies. Through a study tour in the United Kingdom, students will immerse themselves in the culture of soccer and gain insight into how video and social media are used to engage audiences and create global brands. The study tour will start in London, where students will take in the city’s unique culture and sights, and visit professional organizations to learn about social media strategies. Afterwards, students will travel to Manchester where they will visit the Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City Football Club, to learn about the team and its unique approach to branded content. The study tour culminates in a visit to the town of Wrexham in Wales, in which students will learn about the real-life impact of “Welcome to Wrexham”, learning how a TV series can transform a team and the community that supports it. By the end of the course, students from all disciplines will have developed key insights into how content creation and a well-planned strategy can engage an audience and increase brand recognition. No prior experience in digital marketing or content creation is needed to succeed in the course.
*0.5 General Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 22 - June 1, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Director: Marc Tavares, Associate Head, Media Studies
GREECE AND ITALY: EXCAVATING THE ORIGINS OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION
This course invites students to explore the archaeological, historical, social, cultural, and political origins of Western Civilization by exploring two key cities: Athens in Greece and Rome in Italy. Students will explore ancient Western philosophic, political, and aesthetic notions of democracy, government, justice, truth, and beauty that support the idea of Western civilization. This will be combined with observing the archaeology, engineering, and construction of ancient societies. Sites explored will include the Acropolis, Roman Agora, Aristotle’s Lyceum, and Plato’s Academy in Athens as well as the Colosseum, Forum, and Vatican in Rome. Students will learn about the interconnectedness of the ancient civilizations and gain a broader historical lens through which to think about contemporary notions of democracy, governance, justice, beauty, social inequality, and city life. The course is interdisciplinary in spirit, drawing from the classics, archaeology, architecture, art history, urban planning and political philosophy.
*0.5 General Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 8 - 18, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Director: Nitin Deckha, Interim Associate Head of Liberal Studies
HAWAI’I: SPORT, CULTURE, AND NUTRITION IN POLYNESIA
In this course, students will participate in a study tour of the Big Island of Hawai’i (USA), exploring the interplay between sport, fitness, health, Indigenous Hawaiian culture, and sustainable farming practices in Hawaiian society. Students will explore the Big Island and become immersed in sports science, outdoor physical activity and exercise, sport and culture, and sustainable nutrition (fishing and farming). This course will consist of assigned readings and group discussions, through which students will be expected to acquire an understanding of the subject matter associated with the study tour. The study tour will consist of an intensive applied academic curriculum and experiential learning opportunities that will inform a research paper completed upon completion of the course. Key outcomes of the course and study tour will include outdoor physical activity and exercise, Indigenous cultural experiences, as well as insights on sustainable nutrition.
*0.5 General Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 12 - 23, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Director: Robert Gumieniak, Interim Associate Head of Kinesiology
JAPAN: HISTORY, ECONOMY, AND CULTURAL DYNAMICS
This course offers students a unique opportunity to explore the multifaceted tapestry of Japan’s society and economy. Students will participate in a study tour involving visits to Tokyo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Nara. Through a combination of classroom instruction, field trips, and cultural experiences, students will gain a deep understanding of Japan's rich history, its dynamic economy, and unique culture. Engaging with leading Japanese corporations and interacting with academic and industry professionals, students gain invaluable firsthand insights into distinct management styles, business practices and consumer behavior. By exploring Japan's rich history and traditions, the course will help students gain a deeper understanding of the country’s core values that have enabled it to succeed on the global economic stage. The course and study tour will broaden students' global perspectives, enhance their intercultural competence, and equip them with the skills essential for success in today's interconnected world.
*0.5 General Elective Credit or 0.5 Business Restricted Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 15 - 25, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Directors: Farkhanda Shamim, Interim Associate Head, Business & Adam Sandford, Associate Head, Psychology
MOROCCO: THE CULTURE OF MOROCCAN NORTH AFRICA
This course explores the history and rich culture of Morocco, the westernmost country of the Maghreb in North Africa. Students will learn about the evolution of Indigenous, religious, and governmental relations in Morocco and compare these to the Canadian situation. Students will visit Casablanca, Fes, Merzouga, and Marrakech, where they will have the opportunity to visit the Hassan II Mosque, enjoy traditional Moroccan meals, visit a Berber family encamped in the Sahara Desert, ride a camel, and explore high-walled kasbahs. Students will also explore the labyrinthine alleys of Morocco’s world heritage sites and take in the breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains. The course and study tour aims to provide a holistic educational experience, blending academic learning with personal development, intercultural competence, and community engagement.
*0.5 General Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 23 - June 2, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Director: Gary Galbraith, Chair, Justice Studies
PORTUGAL AND SPAIN: ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL LIFE OF LISBON AND THE BASQUE COUNTRY
This course features a study tour of the two countries that make up the Iberian peninsula, Portugal and Spain, where students will visit Lisbon and the Basque country. The tour will enable students to explore, compare, and critically analyze the economic models prevalent in the Greater Lisbon Area of Portugal and the Basque Country of Spain. In Lisbon, participants will engage with the Nova School of Business and Economics, where students will learn about entrepreneurship and innovation. In the Basque Country, the tour includes visits to Mondragon University’s Business Administration and Management program and the Mondragon Corporation, a globally recognized federation of worker cooperatives. Beyond academic and industry interactions, participants will have the opportunity to visit historical landmarks and cultural attractions, making for an immersive experience shaped by the regions' rich histories, geographic contexts, and societal influences.
*0.5 General Elective Credit or 0.5 Business Restricted Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 15 - 25, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Director: Beverley Fretz, Interim Associate Head, Business
SCOTLAND AND ENGLAND: HAUNTING VISITORS
In this study abroad course, students visit several old cities in the United Kingdom, famous for their connections to stories about ghosts, legends, and gruesome events. Students will have an opportunity to witness settings of “haunted heritage” up close and first-hand. 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 7 - 17, 2025 (+/- 1 or 2 days depending on airfare availability)
Course Director: Greg Kelley, Instructor, Media Studies
*NOTE: all projected travel dates are subject to change by +/- 1 or 2 day, depending on airfare availability.
Standard Eligibility and Admission Criteria
Admission to UofGH Abroad course 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 application
- The online application will collect your personal information and will also ask for a personal statement addressing specific questions First non-refundable deposit of $200
- Students are required to pay an initial deposit to secure his/her place in the course. Failure to pay the initial deposit by the deadline (November 15) will result in an incomplete application. 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 (10-12 days, including travel days)
Cost & Deadlines
| All Courses (except for Bali, Ecuador & Galapagos Island, Hawai’i, and Japan) | Ecuador & Galapagos Island, Hawai’i, and Japan | Bali | Due Date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Deposit | $200 | $200 | $200 | November 15, 2024 |
| 2nd Deposit | $1,000 | $1,300 | $1,500 | January 30, 2025 |
| 3rd Deposit | $1,300 | $1,500 | $1,500 | March 30, 2025 |
| TOTAL | $2,500 | $3,000 | $3,300 |
NOTE: Deposits are non-refundable, except where the course is cancelled, or you are not admitted into the course.
Tuition for the course will be due in May. More information on tuition cost can be found here.
How do I pay?
Step 1: Submit online application by deadline (November 7, 2024)
Step 2: Receive an email indicating that a $200 charge has been applied to your WebAdvisor account
Step 3: Pay first deposit by deadline (November 15, 2024)
What does the study abroad fees ($2,500/$3,000/$3,300) cover?
Your study abroad fees covers: flight, accommodations, excursions that complement the academic component of the trip (e.g., transfer to and from scheduled activities; entry fees to museums, parks etc.) and breakfast, wherever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Semester Elsewhere
Apply for an international exchange and earn academic credit while spending a semester abroad. The University of Guelph-Humber offers partnerships with schools around the globe, including in the Netherlands, Austria, and the United Kingdom, Spain, South Korea and Belgium.
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?
Student can participate in the international exchange program in the fall, winter, or summer semester.
Where can you go?
- Avans University of Applied Sciences – Netherlands
- University of Cumbria – United Kingdom
- Hanze University of Applied Sciences - Groningen
- Universidad de San Andres – Argentina
- Haute Ecole Ephec (Ephec University College) - Belgium
- Soka University - Japan
- Institute Quimic De Sarria Cets (IQS), Fundacio Privada - Spain
- Management Center Innsbruck "MCI" – Austria
- Pontifical Catholic University of Peru - Peru
- Leuphana University - Germany
- 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
Guelph-Humber students can apply to study elsewhere for a semester at any accredited university with Program Chair approval via a signed Letter of Permission. Semester Elsewhere is not limited to partner institutions, though students intending on studying at a non-partner institution will pay the host school's tuition and potentially higher international fees. Students must also conduct more research, as the chosen institution may be unfamiliar to Guelph-Humber administration.
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
How do I apply?
Step 1: Explore Your Global Opportunities
Exchanges are open to all GH students, but the Academic Institution available to you and the courses you can take abroad will depend on your program of study. Please see the list of institutions listed above to explore your options.
Deadline to apply for Exchange programs 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.
Step 2: Complete the Application and Letter of Intent
You can find the online application form here. This link includes detailed instructions on the application process, guidelines to writing a Letter of Intent, Terms and Conditions and the Application Form. You will also need to make an appointment with your Academic Advisor to get a Letter of Permission. Click here for more information on Letter of Permission.
Step 3: Complete the Interview
The Guelph-Humber Global team will review your application and letter of intent and invite you to attend an interview. The purpose of the interview is for our team to get to know you and to understand your reasons for studying abroad. Please review your Study Plan and Letter of Intent prior to coming to the interview.
What Happens Next?
All successful candidates nominated for a Semester Abroad will receive a notification of recommendation within 2 – 4 weeks after the application deadline. This notification will list the host institution you have been recommended to and information regarding next steps which will include (but are not limited to):
- 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.
Humber's Global Summer School (GSS)
The University of Guelph-Humber offers students the chance to participate in Humber’s Global Summer School for three weeks in July and August. This intensive program brings together over 700 students from 40+ countries for daily courses on intercultural communication, among other subjects. Students will gain valuable skills for working internationally, make lifelong connections, and experience Canadian culture through both classes and optional activities.
The intensive, three-week Global Summer School courses meet daily (Monday-Friday) and classes are typically held in the morning.
2025 Global Summer school courses available to UofGH students are as follows:
- BHSW 1001 - Health and Wellness Concepts
- BUS 3505 - Intercultural Communications
- MEDC 1006 - Social Media
- SOCI 1500 - Human Rights, Diversity, and Social Inclusion
- JOUR 3012 - Becoming a Podcaster: Introduction to Podcasting
- SOCI 3200 - Thinking in Systems: How to Understand and Tackle Complex Problems
For course details, click here
Why Join Humber's Global Summer 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 (Monday to Friday from 8:30am - 11:30am)
Limited space available for each course, and admission is not guaranteed. To apply, connect with your Academic Advisor for help with the application process. The deadline to apply is May 6, 2025.
Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL)
The University of Guelph-Humber offers Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) programs that connect our students with peers from around the globe. Through these online collaborations, students engage in meaningful projects and discussions, allowing them to gain diverse perspectives and cultural insights without the need for travel. This innovative approach enriches their learning experience, enhances their global competence, and helps them develop essential skills like communication and teamwork in a multicultural context. By participating in COIL programs, students not only broaden their horizons but also build valuable connections that can benefit their future careers in our increasingly interconnected world.