ISCI 361/461: Bermuda Field Course – Systems Approaches to Regional Sustainability

Contemporary scientists agree that addressing complex global challenges such as environmental sustainability requires a systems thinking approach. This means understanding how different elements interact within a whole, rather than examining them in isolation. This involves viewing landscapes, regions, or even entire continents as interconnected systems where land, air, water, human societies, plants, and animals all influence one another. The resilience or collapse of these systems depends on the nature of these interactions.

This 7-day, 3-credit intensive course offers students the opportunity to explore these concepts through direct experience in Bermuda. Students will engage with the island’s ecosystems, landscapes, and communities, while learning from local experts and residents about the historical and contemporary forces shaping Bermuda’s environment.

Bermuda is an ideal setting for systems-based learning. Its rich marine biodiversity, extensive coral reef systems, and visible impacts of climate change such as rising sea levels and ocean acidification offer a living laboratory for observation and analysis. The island also provides insight into pressing issues like invasive species, marine conservation, and sustainable tourism.

General Global Seminar requirements

To participate in a Global Seminar, students must:

• Be in good-standing in their faculty (as defined by home faculty)
• In the year leading up to the Global Seminar, have full-time student status (as defined by home faculty)
• Have completed 2nd year requirements before the start of the program (i.e. 3rd or 4th year standing)
• Have at least a 70% academic average in your last full-time academic session before applying
• Maintain a 70% academic average leading up to the program
• Meet any program specific requirements listed below including pre-requisites before participating

Program-specific requirements

• Students must have reached third-year standing before the start of the program (i.e. 3rd or 4th year).
• The course is primarily intended for Faculty of Science students, but undergraduates from other majors such as Environmental Science, Land and Food Systems, Arts, Commerce, and Engineering are also welcome to apply.
• ISCI 461 is only available to students who have already completed ISCI 361.
• Preference may be given to Integrated Sciences students if applications are competitive.

Final selection will be made by the lead faculty program directors. Space in the program may be limited. 

Students who wish to participate in the summer after graduating may be eligible on a case-by-case basis.

Daily schedule

This is an immersive, outdoor field course. Students will be active most days from morning until evening, with evening group discussions to review the day’s activities and prepare for the next.

Activities

Fieldwork may involve walking on uneven terrain, biking, and occasional boat travel. Students will visit natural and cultural sites, meet with local experts, and take part in hands-on learning activities, including at least one required snorkeling activity.

Climate

Bermuda in February has mild, breezy weather with occasional rain. Students should be prepared to spend extended time outdoors in variable conditions.

Transportation

Local travel will include walking, public transit, biking, ferries, and taxis or chartered vans as needed.

Housing

Students will live together in a shared house, with approximately four students per room. Accommodations include shared kitchen, bathrooms, and common areas. Students are expected to contribute to a respectful and cooperative group environment.

Mobility and infrastructure

Bermuda has limited sidewalks and some field sites involve uneven terrain. Transportation and accommodations may not be fully accessible for students who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility.

Swimming requirement

At least one course activity involves snorkeling. Students must be comfortable in the water and able to swim in order to participate safely.

Physical activity

The course includes moderate activity such as walking, biking, boat travel, and extended time outdoors. Students should be prepared for active days in variable weather.

Shared living

Students will stay in shared accommodations and are expected to contribute to a respectful and cooperative group environment. Single rooms are not available.

Dietary and personal needs

Most meals are self-prepared in the shared kitchen. Students with specific dietary requirements should be prepared to manage their needs in this context.

Approximate program fees: $3500-4000*

The final fee depends on the number of students enrolled. All Global Seminars only run if a minimum number of students participate.

Go Global Award

All eligible students in this Global Seminar will automatically receive a $1,000 Go Global Award. No separate application is required.

Global Pathfinder Award

The Global Pathfinder Award supports students who face barriers to participating in study abroad. It provides $2,000 for Summer Abroad, Global Seminar, or Research Abroad programs. Students who have not previously participated in Go Global and who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply.
Students successful in their Pathfinder application will receive this award instead of the $1000 Go Global Award. The awards do not stack. 

Learn more about the Global Pathfinder Award

Go Global Sustainability Award

Students who demonstrate a plan for sustainable travel, an interest in climate action, and engagement with UBC’s sustainability initiatives may be eligible for a $1,000 Sustainability Award. This award is offered in addition to the Go Global Award.

Learn more about the Go Global Sustainability Award

All travel and program activities involve risk of harm to participants. Go Global and Seminar program leads take reasonable precautions to reduce risks. However, not all harms can be anticipated or prevented. 

While travelling on UBC programs, students have a responsibility for their own safety and the safety of the group.

Some common issues for travellers include:

• Illness and injuries (e.g. respiratory illnesses, flu, food poisoning, sprained ankles, etc.)
• Fatigue and heat exhaustion
• Violence like robbery, or gender- and race-based harassment or attacks, especially in urban areas
• Traffic accidents
• Lost documents (passports, credit cards, etc.)

Before Applying:

• Get to know the places you will be travelling by using available resources like Global Affairs Canada travel reports.
• Consider your own mental and physical health alongside what you know about the conditions during the program (e.g. how physical is the program? What are the living conditions? What can I do to prepare myself?)

Before departure:  

• Participate in all pre-departure activities offered by Go Global and your program teaching team to learn about the program and ways to prevent and respond to incidents.
• Ensure you have adequate travel medical insurance that will cover you in the location and for the duration of your trip.
• Be aware of how to use your travel medical insurance, if you need it, and where to access medical care or other emergency assistance in the locations where you will be travelling. 

During the program: 

• If you don’t feel safe, say something! Let your program leads know how you feel, or about incidents that occur. Don’t hesitate to contact Go Global during your program.
• Know your own needs: be aware of your own mental and physical health and your limits. Communicate with your program lead and group about making adjustments, as needed. 

Public health: COVID-19 and other diseases

Students and faculty are required to comply with the entry requirements of the host country, regulations of transportation carriers, and any local public health orders. These rules might require vaccinations (e.g. for COVID-19, yellow fever, etc.) to enter the country or to participate in certain program activities. Some places may require masking, testing or isolation in various circumstances. It is your responsibility to research and comply with any requirements.

COVID-19 and other infections can spread easily in a group setting. Most programs involve shared accommodations. Unless required by local public health authorities, isolation for those infected during the program may not be possible. 
 
Review local requirements before applying and before departure. Check the Global Affairs Canada Advisory under Entry Requirements for your Global Seminar destination to learn more. Keep in mind that program conditions can vary and rules can change before or during your trip.