Iceland
Fire and Ice: Exploring Biology and Chemistry in Iceland's Unique Ecosystems
Program
With this faculty-led study abroad program students will embark on an unforgettable journey to Iceland, where they will explore the dynamic interplay of biology and chemistry in one of the world's most unique environments. From glaciers to geysers, this course offers hands-on scientific experiences, fostering a deep understanding of natural processes and ecological diversity.
Why Iceland?
Iceland's geography is truly one-of-a-kind, shaped by intense volcanic and glacial activity that gives the island a surreal and unique landscape. Sitting right on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, Iceland is one of the most geologically active places on Earth. This creates an incredible array of volcanic features, like black sand beaches, lava fields, and geothermal areas where hot springs bubble and geysers shoot high into the air. You will also find some of Europe's largest glaciers here, like Vatnajökull, which covers active volcanoes beneath its ice.
Adding to the landscape's unique beauty, Iceland has over 10,000 waterfalls, jagged fjords, and vast lava plains. Geothermal energy also makes Iceland one of the few places where people use natural hot water to heat homes and generate electricity sustainably. And since Iceland is so far north, you can experience both the midnight sun in summer and the magical northern lights in winter. The combination of fire, ice, and an unspoiled environment gives Iceland an otherworldly quality that is unlike anywhere else on the planet.
Sample of the places where students will visit
Lava Centre visit
Hold on tight. Visit the largest volcano and earthquake exhibition in Europe. This educational and interactive exhibition will engage all your senses and put you at the core of a volcanic eruption.
Seljalandsfoss waterfall walk
View the beautiful Seljalandfoss, situated 29 km west of Skogar, a high and wispy waterfall that is one of the most unique in Iceland. This spectacular waterfall allows you to walk behind it on a path, so take a waterproof or umbrella to limit the spray.
Skaftafell National Park excursion
Formed over thousands of years by the continuous blending of volcanic fire and glacial water, Skaftafell National Park is home to striking natural marvels. Along with your tour director, make stops at the different mountains, glacial lagoons, and raging waterfalls along the way. But perhaps its most impressive feature is the Vatnajokull Ice Cap—the largest glacier in Iceland. It is here that, on one of the many sunny days the area is known for, you will have an opportunity to enjoy the world's longest sight line, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
Great Geysir Strokkur
Nearby, the "Great Geysir" Strokkur spouts and sprays water 30-35 meters in the air every 3-8 minutes. Photographers will have to be quick, or they will miss the eruptions, which last only a couple of seconds. Around the site are lots of colorful hot springs, steaming vents, warm streams, and psychedelic algae and mineral deposits.
Blue Lagoon visit
Relax and enjoy the world-famous bright blue mineral-rich swimming pool, the Blue Lagoon, with geothermally heated water in the middle of a large lava field. A swim in the lagoon can be an amazing experience. Great clouds of vapor rise from the water, parting from time to time to reveal the immense stacks and buildings of power plants and moss-covered lava formations in the back group. The bottom is covered with chalky rocks and slimy white silica mud.
Who Can Participate
- Students must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Students must be 18 years or older
Courses
Any Broward College student enrolled in at least one of the listed courses during the Spring 2025 semester
- BSC 1005 General Biology for Non-Majors
- CHM 1020 General Chemistry for Liberal Studies
Tentative Travel Dates
May 15 - 21, 2025
Estimated Cost
$4,630
Includes roundtrip airfare, accommodation, meals (breakfast and dinner), ground transportation, admission/entry fees to excursions, and BC Travel insurance.