FALL 2025 Applications are Open Mid March 2025! Apply here by April 30th, 2025.
The Course: ANT368H5 • Ecological Worldviews: A Cultural Approach
This course explores how world religious traditions address global ecological concerns, examining key beliefs and their relevance to the environmental crisis. Students will analyze diverse perspectives on sustainability and ethical stewardship. In some years, an international learning experience during Reading Week offers a unique opportunity to witness these concepts in practice, deepening cultural and environmental understanding through travel.
Learn more about the course here. Please note you must be registered in this course to participate in this international experience.
Make sure to check the corresponding academic calendar and ACORN for prerequisites and enrollment requirements. Click here.
The Program
Explore Oxford and London through themed activities focusing on nature, animals, ecology, and worldviews. Experience the historic Oxford University firsthand, with engaging activities, including exploring lush gardens, historic landmarks, and scenic walks that tie into course themes delving into the intersection of religion, worldviews, and ecology in an inspiring setting. Take a quick trip to London, to add excitement with visits to vibrant markets, unique food spots, and eco-friendly attractions.
Accessible by foot or public transport, this journey is designed to bring course content to life.
Approximate Travel Dates: Saturday October 25 - Sunday November 2, 2025. (Plus or minus two days before and after - exact dates and times will be communicated to you at the pre-departure session).
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the distinctive landscapes of England alongside your classmates and Professor Stephen Scharper, immersing yourself in the marvels of Oxford and its natural beauty through a series of captivating activities. Explore the enchanting gardens, timeless landmarks, and picturesque walks of Oxford. The London leg of the trip promises exhilarating excursions to bustling markets, and eco-conscious attractions, all while deepening your understanding of animals, ecology, worldviews, and culinary culture. Engage with the storied halls of Oxford University firsthand, where the nexus of religion, worldviews, and ecology comes alive in an atmosphere of inspiration.
- Immerse yourself in hands-on learning experiences that go beyond traditional classroom settings.
- Broaden your cultural horizons and explore the rich heritage of England - enjoying the unique landscape and culture.
- From visiting historic landmarks to engaging with local communities, students gain a deeper appreciation for the interplay between religion, worldviews, and ecology.
- Establish connections with fellow students, staff, and faculty.
- Add international experience to your resume.
Sample Itinerary*
*The itinerary is subject to change based on the availability and requirements of the program.
Accommodation: Hotels and University Housing
Transportation: Private Shuttles, Taxis, Public Buses, and Tour Buses
Meals: Hotel and Local Restaurants
Days 1-2: Oxford
- Introduction to Oxford
- Lunch at the Vault near Radcliffe Camera
- Tour of Magdalen College and Deer Park
- Tour of Christ Church and Water Meadow
Day 3: Oxford
- Tour of Botanic Garden
- Tour of Harcourt Arboretum (accessible by half-hour public bus ride from Oxford)
- Visit to Port Meadow and the historic Perch Restaurant
Day 4: Oxford
- Visit to Magdalen Bridge Boat House and chauffeured punt on the Thames
- Visit to Natural History Museum/Pitt Rivers Museum
- Walk with arborist/curator in University Parks
Day 5: LONDON
- London Day: (Travel by bus or train from Oxford)
- Visit to Tower of London
- Visit to the British Museum
- Visit to Borough Market
Day 6: Oxford
- Visit the historic and ecologically significant Wytham Woods
- Visit to Blenheim Palace, birthplace of W. Churchill, in Woodstock, via public bus.
Day 7:
- Free time
- Travel back home
Estimated cost of International Component 2025-2026: CAD $4100 - 4400. (Final Installments will be determined based on the final trip cost).
What is Included: Flights, transportation, accommodation, meals, in-country activities associated with the course, and trip-cancellation insurance. Funding Available!
What is NOT Included: Course fees, fees associated with supplemental travel insurance, additional optional tours/activities while abroad, visa applications, medical exams, vaccinations, on-the-ground medical expenses, and any other additional costs.
Bursaries will be awarded based on demonstrated financial need (not linked to OSAP) as shown in your funding request in your UTM Abroad application. Read more about funding here!
If you have applied for a bursary, you will hear back about your bursary application at the same time as your trip application.
Payment Schedule
| Payment | Amount | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Installment | $250.00 | With Application |
| 2nd Installment | $950.00 | May 11th, 2025 |
| 3rd Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 4th Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 5th Installment | $950.00* | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 6th Installment | $50-350* | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
*Final Installment will be determined based on the final trip cost. Each installment is due approximately every two weeks (biweekly)- Refer to exact dates in your acceptance email.
Testimonials
Going to Oxford University was life-changing! If you get the opportunity to go on this trip, don't think twice about it. This trip, and the people that I went with, added significantly to my learning at UofT and I would do it again in a heartbeat. - Fall 2024 Student Participant
UTM Abroad felt like home away from home – I found a new family through this experience. From the seamless planning to the incredible people we met, every part of the trip was filled with warmth, friendship, and unforgettable memories. I returned with lifelong connections and a deeper sense of belonging. It was truly magical! - Fall 2024 Student Participant
I would highly recommend this trip to everyone. It’s an incredible opportunity to explore a new culture and country while connecting with your faculty members in a unique setting. It’s also a fantastic way to meet amazing people and form lasting friendships with others on the trip. Truly an unforgettable experience! - Fall 2024 Student Participant
- The cost and itinerary are subject to change. The information on this page is for general reference and is subject to change. Specific and up-to-date details regarding itineraries, the final cost, and additional program requirements will be communicated through email from at the pre-departure sessions. Please refer to those communications for the most accurate and up-to-date information. If you have any questions or need clarification, we encourage you to contact UTM Abroad. We look forward to your application and are here to support you on this exciting journey!
- For the full list of Terms and Conditions, please click here.
- Applicants must submit an application for admission into the course to their respective departments and will be required to abide by the corresponding UTM Abroad application requirements and deadlines to participate in the international experience.
- Fees must be paid in full by the required deadlines.
- To prepare for the trip, students attending will participate in the mandatory pre-departure sessions which occur in person on campus.