Funded study in Finland in 2026-27!

Welcome to the world of opportunities!

Thank you for your interest in SMU Exchange! While you prepare your application, you may want to learn in advance what your (and the Global Learning Office’s) plans, expectations, and responsibilities are. This information guide will help you prepare for a well-planned exchange program. Please review this guide carefully and thoroughly so that your application is full and complete for the selection process. And remember, we are here to assist you throughout all phases of the exchange program! Please e-mail Miyuki.arai@smu.ca if you have any questions or concerns.   

Why should I study abroad? 

There are many reasons and benefits. When you study abroad, you not only enrich your academic experience but also develop intercultural communication skills, competencies and confidence. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience through which you build your resume, learn about different cultures, and make new friends from around the world. Besides you have the support of the home and host universities throughout the journey. 

What are the semester dates in Finland?

Autumn semester: September-December (orientation program in late August)

Spring semester: January-May (orientation program in the beginning of January)

Is there funding? 

Yes! The funding program is called the “Erasmus+” International Credit Mobility. Read on below.

Erasmus+ partner school option 1: University of Jyväskylä

What is University of Jyväskylä like? 

University of Jyväskylä (JYU) is an internationally ranked research university and is one of the largest and most popular multidisciplinary universities in Finland. JYU provides a genuinely supportive and enjoyable environment for studying. JYU has 14 300 students from about 100 countries. They believe that interaction with people from different cultures and backgrounds is an essential part of academic studies and the university experience. The population of Jyväskylä is around 148,000, and the city is located about 170km north of the capital city, Helsinki. See more information about Jyväskylä here. SMU and JYU have been exchange partners since 2006.

What subjects are offered at JYU? In what language? 

Many courses for exchange students are offered in English by the following Centre/Faculty: 

• Centre for Multilingual Academic Communication 

• Faculty of Education and Psychology 

• Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences 

• Faculty of Information Technology 

• Faculty of Mathematics and Science 

• Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences 

• School of Business and Economics 

See more information about courses for exchange students here. 

Erasmus+ funding at JYU

Successful students can receive a grant of €4,788 (approx. CAD$7,750) for 4months of exchange study at JYU.

Number of grants available for AY2026-27: 4

Four (4) successful applicants will be selected for the JYU exchange program, and those four students will receive an Erasmus+ mobility grant each. Each grant consists of 900euro-stipend per month for 4 months plus a travel subsidy of 1,188euros for a total of 4,788euros. Funding will be given by JYU after students arrive in Finland; therefore, students need to pay out of pocket any upfront expenses such as the residence permit application costs and international airfare. Top up grant for participants with fewer opportunities where available.

Erasmus+ partner school option 2: LUT University

What is LUT University like? 

LUT University was founded in 1969 and is one of the top-ranked higher education institutions in Finland. LUT University describes themselves as, “We are trailblazers in promoting the energy transition and the regenerative use of natural resources, and we help build resilient communities, industry, and businesses through data, research, and education.” (see more here). LUT University welcomes every year around 200 exchange students to its Lappeenranta campus located by beautiful Lake Saimaa only two-hour train ride away from the capital Helsinki. The population of Lappeenranta is 73,000 inhabitants. See more information about Lappeenranta here. SMU and LUT have been exchange partners since 2005.

LUT University offers exchange studies for selected study fields at the Lahti campus in Lahti, even closer to the capital area. The population of Lahti is approximately 122,000 inhabitants.

What subjects are offered at LUT University? In what language? 

Fields of study for exchange students, many of which are in English, at the Lappeenranta campus include:

• Business (Business Administration)

• Technology (Chemical Engineering, Computational Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Energy Technology, Environmental Technology, Industrial Engineering and Management, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering (only Master)

• Social Sciences (Social Sciences, Communication Sciences)

• Fields of study for exchange students, many of which are in English, at the Lahti campus include:

• Industrial Engineering and Management (only Bachelor)

• Software Engineering (Bachelor and Master)

• See more information about LUT University courses for exchange students here. 

Erasmus+ funding at LUT

Successful students can receive a grant of 5,688euros (approx. CAD$9200) for 5months of exchange study at LUT.

Number of grants available for AY2026-27: 3

Three (3) successful applicants will be selected for the LUT exchange program, and those three students will receive an Erasmus+ mobility grant each. Each grant consists of 900euro-stipend per month for 5 months plus a travel subsidy of 1,188euros for a total of 5,688euros. Funding will be given by LUT after students arrive in Finland; therefore, students need to pay out of pocket any upfront expenses such as the residence permit application costs and international airfare. Top up grant for participants with fewer opportunities where available.

Additional Information

Can I receive transfer credits towards my SMU degree? 

It depends on which courses you have left to complete for your SMU degree. Please meet with your academic advisor (see here) as a first step. Your advisor will not be able to tell you which courses to take (-- it is up to you to research the partner university’s courses) but can 1) confirm if any of the remaining SMU program requirements can be completed abroad during the exchange program and 2) go over the Letter of Permission process with you. 

Note: JYU and LUT course credits are weighted differently from SMU courses. If you plan to earn 15 credit hours from the exchange semester towards your degree, you should aim to validate 30 “ECTS” credits at JYU/LUT. 

You must attain a grade of C or higher in most cases for the host university credits to be accepted by SMU. Please note that the host university’s grades will not be used in the calculation of your SMU GPA – the transfer credits will show on your SMU transcript with a code, “TR”, instead of a letter grade.  

What did former exchange students say about studying in Finland? 

Watch Caitlin’s testimonial here! Caitlin studied at JYU for a semester in the 2022-23 academic year.

Am I eligible? 

The Exchange Program is open to all SMU students (Canadian and Non-Canadian students, full-time or part-time) who are in good academic standing and have completed at least 30 credit hours at SMU. We welcome applicants of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Students who are eligible to receive transfer credits towards their SMU degree will be prioritized. 

Important: Your official transcript will be sent from the host university upon completion of the exchange program; however, it will take a couple of months for the transfer credits to be added to your banner account. Therefore, if you are in your final year of your Bachelor program, please discuss your graduation timeline with the academic advising office. 

What are my costs? 

You will be responsible for SMU tuition (paid at SMU for the transfer credit hours), $100 study abroad admin fee, international and in-country travel, travel insurance, housing, food, communication, passport application, Finnish immigration* application, any fees charged by the host university and miscellaneous/personal expenses.

The average living expenses for a single student in Finland amount to about €700-900 (approx. CAD$1150-$1500) per month. 

Do I need a visa to study in Finland? 

Yes. Exchange students need to obtain a “Residence Permit” to study in Finland. The Residence Permit application process begins as soon as your acceptance letter is issued by the host university. Students need to prove that they have 800euros per study month. Important: After completing an electronic application, all applicants must visit a VFS Global application centre in person to prove their identity, NO EXCEPTIONS. For students in Nova Scotia, the closest VFS Centres to Halifax are in Montreal or Ottawa. Budget for your travel to a VFS Centre accordingly. See more information at: 

• Guide for students applying for a residence permit here  

• How to apply for a residence permit provided by the Finnish mission in Canada here 

• The VFS.GLOBAL Finland Residence Permit Application Centres here 

How do I apply? When is the application deadline?

You will submit your application for the Erasmus+ Finland exchange program (Fall 2026 and Winter 2027) to the SMU Global Learning Office by March 2 2026 at 4pm*.

To complete your application, you will:

1. fill out your Study Abroad Application (https://studio.smu.ca/s/StudyAbroadApplication2021.pdf)

2. write a one-page letter of intent. (Tip: book an appointment with The Writing Centre once you have a draft https://studio.smu.ca/wc-student-tutoring)

3. print (in pdf) your unofficial transcript from banner

4. prepare your resume, and

5. secure two references (one must be from a SMU professor of one of your courses) – referees can email their letters directly to Global@smu.ca. Inquiries can be sent to Miyuki.arai@smu.ca.

Once you have all four pieces of application documents (except for references), upload them at the application link here https://smuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_55UpfboKu5sImUe.

*If not all grants are allocated after the selection process, applications will continue to be accepted for the Winter 2027 exchange program on a first-come, first-served basis up to 4pm on August 31 2026.

What happens after you apply?

Once your application package is received, the Global Learning Office will be in touch to schedule a short interview. If you are selected, 1) you will be nominated to the host university as SMU’s Erasmus+ credit mobility grant recipients by the SMU Global Learning Office and 2) you will be instructed to complete a set of applications for the host university by late April (Fall Exchange Program) or by late September (Winter Exchange Program). Once the host university accepts you into the program, you will be provided with all program-related information.

As soon as your acceptance is confirmed by the host university, you will start the Residence Permit application process with VFS Global. 

You will arrange your own international travel.

You will also be expected to attend our pre-departure orientation meetings at SMU. The host university will also organize a mandatory orientation program at the beginning of the exchange semester.

From Acceptance to Pre-departure 

Once you are accepted into the program by SMU and by the host university, there are other steps you will follow to prepare for your departure. Those steps include the following and additional information about each item will be provided later: 

1. Request approval for taking host university courses for the transfer of credits (via a Letter of Permission Request Form)

2. Apply for a passport within 6 months of the expected end date of the exchange program. 

3. If you are a non-Canadian student, ensure your Canadian Study Permit and Visa remain valid for re-entry to Canada after the exchange program. (If you are a Canadian Permanent Resident Card holder, check the expiry date, too.) 

4. Apply for a Finnish Residence Permit 

5. Arrange travel insurance (mandatory) 

6. Purchase airline tickets 

7. Attend pre-departure briefing meetings and learn to manage travel risks 

8. Register in courses at the host university 

9. Apply for housing as directed by the host university

10. Get to know other SMU students who will be on exchange in the same semester 

11. Inform the Global Learning Office if applying for a student loan, and keep in touch with the SMU Financial Aid & Awards Office 

12. Research the host country and region 

13. Request accessibility services to the host university, as required 

14. Register your travel 

15. Complete the waiver form 

16. Attend the orientation at the host university (mandatory) 

17. Pay SMU tuition and $100 fee at SMU

18. Review the post-experience reporting requirements and book a re-entry workshop 

19. Receive an official transcript from the host university so your credits will be added to banner 

If there are any questions or concerns, email Miyuki.arai@smu.ca. 

We look forward to receiving your application! 

---

Contact Information: 

Miyuki Arai, Global Learning and Intercultural Support 

Email: Miyuki.arai@smu.ca 

Office: Atrium 106 

Call for Applications: 2026 Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program

Offered by Global Affairs Canada and China’s Ministry of Education, the Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program (CCSEP) aims to foster deeper mutual understanding, build strong academic and professional ties between Canada and China, and develop future Canadian leaders with expertise and experience in China. CCSEP alumni are part of a distinguished network of professionals who have gone on to build impactful careers in academia, public service, business, and other fields that contribute meaningfully to Canada-China engagement.  

The program provides an excellent opportunity to learn Chinese, and/or pursue post-secondary studies or research at leading institutions across China.  

Candidates must be Canadian citizens to participate in the outbound component of the program.  

Who is eligible to apply? 

• Students at the post-secondary level 

• Faculty members and researchers  

• Mid-career professionals 

Last year, the program introduced new components to expand eligibility and create new opportunities for participants: 

• Longer Stays for Graduate Students: Graduate students can now stay in China for up to 24 months with the option to obtain a graduate degree from designated learning institutions in China. 

• Shorter Stays for Professionals: The minimum stay requirement for faculty, researchers, and mid-career professionals has been reduced from 2 months to 1 month, offering greater flexibility for those seeking short-term professional development opportunities. 

The deadline to apply on the My EduCanada portal is January 12, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EST. Apply today to start your extraordinary adventure in China!  

For more information:

• Review application guidelines: Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program

• Register for the online info session on November 18 at 2:30 p.m. EST:  Webinar - Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program 2026-2027.

• Program Flyer

• Presentation Slides

For any questions about the program, please contact: scholarships-admin-bourses@international.gc.ca. 

Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge

Empowering the next generation of ocean innovators

Created and powered by the International University of Monaco, the Oceanographic Institute, Prince Albert I of Monaco Foundation, Monaco Impact and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the Monaco Ocean Protection Challenge is an international business plan pitching competition for students, fresh graduate & young entrepreneurs showcasing new business concepts with a measurable, positive impact on the ocean .

Learn more here: https://www.monaco-opc.com/

UArctic 2026 Calls for Applications

UArctic is excited to share the 2026 Calls for Applications for three Canadian UArctic Project Funds administered through Memorial University and supported through Global Affairs Canada. The funds aim to strengthen collaboration and networking between UArctic members and their Indigenous and Northern partners by supporting projects that address priority issues in Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework while upholding UArctic values and Memorial University’s Policy on Research Impacting Indigenous Groups. These opportunities are open to Canadian UArctic member institutions. 

As part of this year’s call, we are pleased to launch a new round of project funding, offering up to $100,000 over five years to support collaborative, community-driven research and education initiatives across the Circumpolar North.

Note: Funding availability for this call is subject to approval from Global Affairs Canada. Final award decisions will only be confirmed once funding has been approved. Funding cannot be applied retroactively or used for previously completed activities.

1. Indigenous and Northern Relationship Development Fund

Deadline: April 24, 2026
Funding: Up to $15,000
Project Period: September 2026 – September 2028

This fund is designed to build or strengthen relationships between academic researchers and Indigenous or Northern partners. Projects may include meetings, workshops, or other activities that establish or deepen collaborative relationships, with an emphasis on respectful, ethical, and community-led engagement in line with Memorial University’s Policy on Research Impacting Indigenous Groups.

·       Open to researchers from any Canadian UArctic member

·       Designed to build relationships between academic researchers and Indigenous or Northern partners

·       Projects focus on relationships outcomes rather than research outcomes

·       Projects must be completed 24 months from start of project activities

For more information, including funding guides: CLICK HERE

TO APPLY: CLICK HERE

2. Indigenous and Northern Collaborative Research and Education Engagement Fund (Stream A: Two-Year Projects)

Deadline: April 24, 2026
Funding: Up to $40,000 (maximum of five awards per year)
Project Period: September 2026 – September 2028

This stream supports shorter-term collaborative projects that strengthen partnerships and knowledge exchange in Northern and Indigenous research and education. Projects should address priorities within Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework and reflect UArctic’s values of collaboration, inclusion, and respect for Indigenous knowledge systems.
Who can apply:

·       The lead applicant must be from a Canadian UArctic member institution.

·       Collaboration between multiple UArctic member institutions (including international partners) and partners is required

·       Researchers from Northern and Southern institutions are encouraged to apply.

·       Only one active project award may be held at a time.

Eligible activities include:

·       Developing or strengthening UArctic Thematic Networks

·       Creating joint courses or programs relevant to Northern communities

·       Advancing online and flexible education initiatives

·       Supporting networking and collaborative research across UArctic members

For more information, including funding guides: CLICK HERE

TO APPLY: CLICK HERE

3. Indigenous and Northern Collaborative Research and Education Engagement Fund (Stream B: Five-Year Projects) *NEW*

Deadline: April 24, 2026 *five-year projects are awarded only in 2026
Funding: Up to $100,000 (maximum of six awards)
Project Period: September 2026 – September 2031

This stream supports longer-term, multi-partner collaborations designed to create sustainable research and education initiatives across the circumpolar North. Proposals should include at least three UArctic partners (with a Canadian lead) and align with UArctic values and Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework. Additional information is required for this stream; review the Funding Guide and Application Form for full details.

Who can apply:

·       The lead applicant must be from a Canadian UArctic member institution.

·       Collaboration between multiple UArctic member institutions (including international partners) and partners is required

·       Researchers from Northern and Southern institutions are encouraged to apply.

·       Only one active project award may be held at a time.

Eligible activities include:

·       Developing or strengthening UArctic Thematic Networks

·       Creating joint courses or programs relevant to Northern communities

·       Advancing online and flexible education initiatives

·       Supporting networking and collaborative research across UArctic members

For more information, including funding guides: CLICK HERE

TO APPLY: CLICK HERE

We will be hosting an information session on the funds on January 28th, 2026. For help connecting with other Canadian UArctic member institutions or identifying potential partners, please reach out to me directly: lgoulet@mun.ca

Applications for all three funds must be submitted through Memorial University’s online application portal by April 24, 2026 (23:59 CEST).

If you would like more information, please contact Miyuki.Arai@smu.ca

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships available to Canadian students

November 7, 2025 – Are you a Canadian student interested in obtaining a master’s degree abroad? Scholarships are available to top-ranked students from around the world who are admitted to the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programs.

These prestigious and innovative programs are jointly designed and delivered by leading universities across Europe and beyond, and include opportunities for study, research, or traineeships at multiple partner institutions.

The highly competitive scholarships for admitted students cover:

• Participation costs

• Travel expenses

• Visa fees

• A living allowance

For more information, visit: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters.

ESSCA Winter 2026 Online Programs (Applications Closed)

ESSCA Winter 2026 Online Programs

The ESSCA School of Management, based in France, is one of the world’s leading business schools, known for its academic excellence and international focus. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate management programs across 10 global campuses. The institution emphasizes a humanistic and responsible approach to business education, with programs designed to foster leadership skills, prepare students for the global marketplace, and promote entrepreneurial spirit through its various campuses, research, and extensive alumni network. 

Saint Mary’s Students are invited to participate in the ESSCA Winter Online Programme to explore new horizons!

ESSCA Online Campus (January 5-February 2, 2026)

The ESSCA Online Campus is offering a choice of 3 topics:

1. Luxury Fashion Branding & Consumer Experience (4 Ects), 
   from 5th January to 2nd February 2026

2. Leader Communication in a Cross Cultural & Changing World (3 Ects),
   from 5th January to 26th January 2026

3. Innovation & Creativity (3 Ects),
   from 5th January to 26th January 2026

Note that courses will open with a minimum of 10 students. 

Fees

SMU students pay normal SMU tuition for the transfer credit hours at SMU. In addition, students will pay 55 euros at ESSCA to cover registration.

Transfer credits

Students may be able to earn credits to the extent that those credits are applicable to the program requirements of their SMU degree. Meet with your academic advisor of your program (visit https://www.smu.ca/academics/academic-advising.html) to see if any of your remaining degree requirements can be completed at another university. If your advisor confirms that there is room for transfer credits in your degree, you will request approval to take courses for transfer credits by submitting a Letter of Permission Request Form (found here https://www.smu.ca/academics/student-forms.html) to the SMU Records Office as soon as your acceptance is confirmed. Typically, 3credit hours at SMU is earned for each 6 Ects credits given at European partner school.

Interested students should email Global@smu.ca by December 1.

Herstart International Fellowship Opportunities for January 2026

📣APPLICATIONS OPEN: Herstart International Fellowship Opportunities for January 2026! 📣 

Youth Challenge International’s (YCI) HerStart Innovate the Future program aims to provide 10,000 women and local partner organizations in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda with access to social entrepreneurship training and networks to successfully launch or grow their businesses. To achieve this, the HerStart program leverages the passion and skills of Canadian volunteers through the International Fellowship program.  

HerStart International Fellows complete 3-month placements that meaningfully contribute to the goals of HerStart, while gaining hands-on professional international experience, expanding their global networks, and collaborating with our impact-driven teams in Ghana, Tanzania, and Uganda! 

⭐️3-month Fellowship opportunities include: 

·                Program & Partnerships Fellow 

·                Communications & Marketing Fellow

·                Research & Learning Fellow 

·                Social Entrepreneurship Fellow 

📍Important Dates: September 30th is the application deadline 

   (positions offered on a rolling basis – apply early!). 

A focus on Gender Equality, Climate Action, Social Innovation or Human Rights may be integrated into the above positions depending on the needs of the project and your skills/interests. 

HerStart International Fellows receive a holistic benefits package including pre-departure training, post-placement support, round-trip airfare, visas, health insurance, a monthly living stipend and much more. This program is funded by the Government of Canada.  

💡 Want to learn more about HerStart International Fellowships? 🎬 Meet our Fellows and watch videos highlighting their experience here! 

In 2026 join a global movement to accelerate social innovation and sustainable development! Read more and apply today ➡️ bit.ly/3pW1DBv  

You can also share this opportunity on social media and stay up-to-date on future YCI events and opportunities using the links below:  

·                YCI’s post on LinkedIn  

·                YCI’s post on Instagram   

·                YCI’s post on Facebook  

·                YCI’s E-Newsletter  

South Korea Field Course (Winter 2026) (Closed)

Update: Applications now closed

The GEOG 4110: South Korea Field Course provides an opportunity to study the dynamic geography of South Korea (Republic of Korea). Through engaging in-class seminars and an enriching field trip to the country, students delve into diverse aspects of South Korea's physical and cultural landscape. The main themes of the course may change over the years with faculty interests and collaborative opportunities, ensuring relevance and dynamism. By adopting an integrative regional geography perspective, students gain insights into the past, present, and future of South Korea, fostering a comprehensive understanding of this vibrant nation.

• 6 credit hours

• Prerequisites:27 credit hours including GEOG1100/GEOG1200, AND permission of instructor

• Weekly Seminar Meetings on Fridays (9:30-12:00pm)

• Fieldtrip Period: April 23- May 5, 2026 (11 nights & 12 days trip)

• Class size: 12~14 students

• Faculty: Drs. Min-Jung Kwak & Mathew Novak

ESSCA Winter 2026 Programs (Closed)

Update: Applications now closed

The ESSCA School of Management is one of the world’s leading business schools, known for its academic excellence and international focus. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate management programs across 10 global campuses. The institution emphasizes a humanistic and responsible approach to business education, with programs designed to foster leadership skills, prepare students for the global marketplace, and promote entrepreneurial spirit through its various campuses, research, and extensive alumni network. 
Saint Mary’s Students are invited to participate in the ESSCA Winter Programme to explore new horizons! Learn more here.

• Budapest Winter Programme (January 5-16, 2026)

• ESSCA Online Campus (January 5-February 2, 2026)

Details

SMU students pay SMU tuition for the transfer credit hours. In addition:

For Budapest Winter Program:

Students will also pay 1,300 euros at ESSCA to cover administrative fees, housing, welcome meal and visits. Travel, visa and insurance are also students’ own responsibility.

For Online Program:

Students will pay 55 euros at ESSCA to cover registration.

Transfer credits

Students may be able to earn credits to the extent that those credits are applicable to the program requirements of their SMU degree. Meet with your academic advisor of your program (visit https://www.smu.ca/academics/academic-advising.html) to see if any of your remaining degree requirements can be completed at another university. If your advisor confirms that there is room for transfer credits in your degree, you will request approval to take courses for transfer credits by submitting a Letter of Permission Request Form (found here https://www.smu.ca/academics/student-forms.html) to the SMU Records Office as soon as your acceptance is confirmed.

Interested students should email Global@smu.ca by October 15.

Online Circumpolar Studies Courses

Register by August 27, 2025 to participate in the online Circumpolar Studies courses offered this coming fall and winter.

The following are the Circumpolar Studies courses to be offered this fall and winter, jointly hosted by Trent University and Yukon University. The courses are free for all students from an institution that is registered with UArctic.

Interested students should consult their academic advisor to discuss whether there is room for transfer credits in their program requirements and then email Global@smu.ca by August 15 to request the registration form. Students pay regular SMU tuition at SMU for the transfer credit hours.

Course Offerings

CS 100 / GEOG: 1045 / NOST 101 Hosted by Yukon University

Introduction to the Circumpolar World (GEOG-1045H-W-F01)

• 9/4/2025-12/31/2025 - Course Dates with YukonU may vary slightly.
  Introduces students to the landscape, peoples, and issues of the circumpolar region. Beginning with an examination of the geography, biological, and physical systems of the Subarctic and Arctic, the course then turns to the Indigenous and contemporary peoples of the region.

CS 311 / Lands and Environments of the Circumpolar North I
Lands and Environments of the Circumpolar North (GEOG-2320H-W-F01)

• 9/4/2025-12/31/2025
  Explores the lands and environments that define the Circumpolar region and identifies the key issues involving interaction between humans and their environments, examining climate change and its impacts on landscapes, biodiversity, and ecological systems. Provides a broad foundation for the study of circumpolar peoples, economies, landscapes, communities, and adaptation to climate change.

CS 321 / Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar World I

Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar World (INDG-3745H-W-F01)

• 9/4/2025-12/31/2025

An introduction to historic traditional cultures and contemporary peoples through both traditional Indigenous and Western perspectives. Identifies the broad and basic understanding of the histories and experiences of the peoples of the Circumpolar North, and the development of northern cultures. Explores and defines the cultural diversity present in the Circumpolar North with reference to environments, contact, and economic processes.

CS 331 / Contemporary Issues of the Circumpolar World I
Contemporary Issues of the Circumpolar World (GEOG-3390H-R-F01)

• 9/4/2025-12/31/2025
  Develops a basic appreciation of the most important contemporary challenges surrounding governance and politics, social issues, education and knowledge systems, and global issues in the circumpolar regions of the North. It explores the complexity and inter-relatedness of governance, social policy, gender, indigeneity, and law.

Canada's People and Places (CAST-2810H-R-F01)

• 9/4/2025-12/31/2025
  Explores the geography of Canada and its peoples and places. Examines the development of Canada's cultural landscapes and regions, and the social, economic, and political development of the Canadian nation-state. Canada's geography is explored as an east-west nation under increasing pressure from globalization and new national agendas.

Histories of the Canadian North (CAST-3241H-W-F01)

• 9/4/2025-12/31/2025
  Introduces students to major themes the Canadian Northern history, from pre-contact to the creation of the territory of Nunavut in 1999. The major themes focus on evolving cultural, political, socio-economic, and environmental histories.

Below Courses Being Offered Winter 2026

CS 100 / GEOG: 1045 / NOST 101 Hosted by Yukon University
Introduction to the Circumpolar World (GEOG-1045H-W-F01)

• 1/7/2026-4/30/2026
  Introduces students to the landscape, peoples, and issues of the circumpolar region. Beginning with an examination of the geography, biological, and physical systems of the Subarctic and Arctic, the course then turns to the Indigenous and contemporary peoples of the region.

CS 312 / Lands and Environments of the Circumpolar North II
Changing Resources of the Circumpolar North (GEOG-2330H-W-W01)

• 1/7/2026-4/30/2026
  Provides students with an in-depth understanding of the key issues which define the future of resources and resource use in the Circumpolar North. Focuses upon the challenges of resource management for governments and communities, and assesses the potential conflicts derived from resource use.

CS 322 / Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar World II

Language, Culture, Identity & the Circumpolar World (INDG-3750H-W)

• 9/4/2025-12/31/2025

A broad examination of circumpolar peoples in North America, Russia and northern Asia, Greenland, and northern Scandinavia. Notions of identity, culture, language, and self-determination are discussed, similarities and differences of northern peoples and cultures are examined, and their adaptations to change and roles as agents of change explored. 

CS 332 / Contemporary Issues of the Circumpolar World II
Geography of the Polar Regions (GEOG-3640H-W-W01)

• 1/7/2026-4/30/2026
  Study of selected aspects of the Polar regions with considerable reference to northern Canada but with the deliberate intention of developing comparisons between it and other parts of the Polar regions.

The Contemporary Canadian North in a Circumpolar Context (CAST-3243H-W-W01)

• 1/7/2026-4/30/2026
  Explores issues in the contemporary Canadian North with a focus on social, political, economic, and environmental issues. Students are encouraged to critically examine Canada's Northern strategies and compare these to the social and economic priorities of Arctic leaders and Indigenous Peoples living in remote Northern communities.

About Circumpolar Studies

Circumpolar Studies is by definition an interdisciplinary field that explores the global Arctic region from a number of different perspectives, including the social sciences, the humanities, the natural sciences and the arts.  It brings together scholarly perspectives from educators, researchers, practitioners and Indigenous knowledge holders who live and work throughout the Circumpolar North. The result is a comprehensive study of lands and environments, peoples and places, cultures and languages, and political and economic systems.  This holistic approach permits us to understand how the Circumpolar North is connected by common environments, experiences and identities.

Contemporary research, teaching and learning in Circumpolar Studies does not promote abstract conceptions of the Circumpolar North, but rather strives to see the region from the perspective of its inhabitants.  Its curriculum reflects a diversity of viewpoints and and sensitivity to context.  It develops an appreciation for the connections between people and place, the impacts of globalisation and colonialism, the challenges of climate change, and the interplay between Indigenous knowledge and Western science.  This rich and situated knowledge breaks down disciplinary barriers, inviting students, educators and researchers to understand the Circumpolar North as a unique place that is both a lived-in homeland and an emerging global region undergoing rapid change.

Nordic Winter School on Sustainability (closed)

Update: Applications closed

This unique Winter School, a collaboration between Lund University School of Economics and Management and Hanken School of Economics in Helsinki, Finland, includes an intensive two-week program (6 ECTS) in Lund, Sweden and Helsinki, Finland.

From Bitcoins to Biases (3 ECTS), Lund

This course begins by examining how psychology interacts with economics to shape financial decisions and market outcomes in what is called behavioral finance. You’ll then turn to cryptocurrencies, learning blockchain fundamentals and how cryptocurrencies work. Working in small groups, you’ll complete four concise reports — including one quantitative project with real transaction data—to apply these insights in practice.

Sustainable Finance (3 ECTS), Helsinki

Sustainable finance and high-quality corporate governance practices are essential tools in fighting the climate change and in creating more sustainable economies. This module focuses on the role of financial innovations in facilitating the energy transition and other environment-related global challenges.

Information for applicants

• Language of instruction: English

• Level: Bachelor

• Credits: 6 ECTS

• Format: The course will be held on-campus unless circumstances change

• Who: The courses require an active participation in group work and discussions and therefore a very good command of English is expected, corresponding to CEFR B2-C1 level. Participants must also have completed at least one year of business-related studies including an introductory course in economics.

• When: Full-time from 12-23 January 2026 (one week in Lund and one week in Helsinki). Initial online assignment to be turned in before course start

• Teaching methods: The modules combine a variety of methods, ranging from traditional lectures, guest lectures, case studies, interaction-based pedagogy, reading groups, student debates, group work and study visits. Students are expected to participate actively in class

• Nomination deadline: 1 October

• Application: Interested students should contact Global@smu.ca by September 10.

• More information: https://www.lusem.lu.se/study/international-opportunities/incoming-exchange-students-lusem/winter-school-lusem

Winter 2026 Short-Term Intensive Japanese Program in Tokyo (closed)

Update: applications closed

Warm greetings from the Center for Japanese Language Education at Rikkyo University!

We are pleased to introduce our AY2025 Winter Short-Term Intensive Japanese Program in Ikebukuro Campus (Tokyo, January 2026). 

About the program 

The entire program consists of about 46 hours of Japanese classes including cultural activities.
Program capacity is limited and the maximum number of participants in the program is 30 students.
In this program, “Beginner” and “Elementary” level classes will be held. 

The classes are suitable for students who have no or little experience in learning Japanese or students who have learned Japanese for approximately one year and are at JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) N4/N5 level. Please note that English is the primary language for communication in this program, and participants are expected to have a certain level of English ability.
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion and an Official Transcript.

Program dates
Tuesday, January 20 - Friday, January 30, 2026
Participants need to check in at the designated accommodation on January 19, and check out on January 31, 2026.
Program location
Rikkyo University, Ikebukuro Campus (Tokyo)
Application period
Tuesday, July 1 – Saturday, September 27, 2025
Application deadline
Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (JST)
For more information, please refer to the attached brochure, application requirements, and our website below.
https://cjle.rikkyo.ac.jp/english/sijp/application.aspx

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
We are looking forward to receiving the applications from the students who are interested in learning Japanese language and culture!