Arctic Experiential Studies: Greenland
This course is part of a special summer session which begins and ends in Copenhagen, but takes place mainly in Greenland.
Read more about the Arctic Experiential Studies Session and learn how to apply.
About this course
Greenland is home to the second largest ice sheet on earth—and it’s melting faster than anywhere else. Arctic ecosystems are especially sensitive to warming, and we already see major changes in how these systems work, making Greenland an important place to study the effects of climate change.
In this course, you will explore the science behind anthropogenic climate change and how it is affecting the Arctic environment. We will look at how rising temperatures impact different parts of the ecosystem, including marine food webs, land-based relationships between plants and pollinators, ice algae, and freshwater systems.
You will also learn about conservation efforts in the Arctic and how local communities, especially indigenous peoples, are helping monitor and protect wildlife through traditional knowledge and modern science.
Syllabus
Summer 2026 (Draft)
Go to syllabusThis is a draft syllabus. The final syllabus will be available here a few days prior to the new course’s first start date.
Pre-requisites
At least one course in environmental science at university level.
Recommended experience
At least one course in biology or ecology is recommended.
Faculty
Astrid M. A. Schmidt
FacultyPh.D in Climate change; Ecosystems of the Arctic from University of Copenhagen (Niels Bohr Institute/Natural History Museum of Denmark). M.Sc in population genetics and conservation of African elephants. Current research interests are within citizen science on biodiversity and climate change. Work experience has involved science outreach, science education focusing on co-creation and community engagement e.g. of urban development with children and locals. With DIS since 2015.