About

Europe Field Studies – Germany and Italy: Memory, Place, and Change

Join the Department of Philosophy and the Department of Geography & Geology for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gain diverse cultural perspectives while exploring some of today’s most pressing ethical and philosophical questions.

The Europe Field Studies program will explore urbanization, colonialism, imperialism, migration, ethnicity, culture, identity and change, and related social issues, from the unique urban and historical contexts of Berlin, Munich, Venice and Rome. Following an overall program theme of “Memory, Place and Change,” we will consider the impacts of this history on the contemporary urban landscapes of these cities, while visiting fascinating and complex cityscapes shaped by collective and contested efforts to confront their past.

Starting with Berlin, and travelling by rail to Munich, Venice and Rome, from the perspectives of a geographer and philosopher, we will explore urban neighbourhoods, museums, memorials, and places of cultural, historical and architectural significance across Germany and Italy.

Earn credits while you travel

The European Field Studies program is being offered as a six-credit program:

  • GEOG 1105: Geographic Field Techniques (3 university-transfer credits)
  • PHIL 2210: Contemporary Moral Issues (3 university-transfer credits) 

Itinerary

Our journey begins in Berlin, but .... All roads lead to Rome!

Get ready to learn in four unique European cities with deep and rich histories, vibrant cultures, and striking contrasts to Vancouver. Activities will include instructor-led lectures, walking tours and guest lectures from local experts, visits to museums, memorials, and other sites of significance.

Apr. 22-25: Pre-departure: orientation and lectures at Langara, 6 hours/day (mandatory)

May 1–11: Berlin: this vibrant city becomes our classroom for 10 days! Deeply explore the cultural, political and moral issues embedded in this fascinating and ever-changing city

May 11: travel by train southward through Germany to Munich

May 11-15: Munich, Germany: journey to this lovely Bavarian city, and explore its complicated contrasts and connections to Rome and Berlin

May 15: travel by rail from Bavaria, through the spectacular Alps, to the unique city of Venice

May 15–18: explore beautiful, spectacular Venice, where east meets west.  Venice is a one-of-a-kind UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fully walkable city, with unique art, architecture and ecosystems that are under threat from rising sea levels.

May 18: travel by rail through the heart of Italy to Rome

May 18-24: Rome: the Eternal City becomes our classroom for 7 days! Following our theme of memory, place and change, wander sites in the ancient and modern city.  Meander through unique neighbourhoods like Mussolini’s EUR, stroll along the legendary Tiber River, and explore how ancient sites, imperialism, the legacies of colonialism, global tourism, and climate change impact and shape the city.

May 25: Program conclusion: return to Canada or embark on independent journeys in Italy and/or Europe

* Itinerary subject to change.

Contact

For course/ program related questions:

Kelin Emmett
Program Instructor
Phone: 604.323.5511 ext. 2149
Office: A348c
Email: kemmett@langara.ca 

Katrina Erdos 
Program Instructor 
Phone: 604.323.5907 
Office: A240e 
Email: kerdos@langara.ca 

For application and payment related questions:

Mercedes Bueno 
Program Coordinator, International Programs and Partnerships
Office: Langara Global (room A107)
Phone: 604-323-5696
Email: globalengagement@langara.ca