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New Zealand Earth Systems - Environmental Sciences & Studies

New Zealand Earth Systems Field Camp + Semester at the University of Canterbury


The New Zealand Earth Systems Programme at the University of Canterbury combines Environmental Sciences, hydrology, and geosciences to provide students the tools to analyze current New Zealand environmental issues.  During field camp we introduce basic geologic,  surface hydrology and environmental science field  techniques. We explore how these techniques are currently used to solve New Zealand environmental challenges. In addition,  students learn  how both indigenous knowledge and western science are utilized to manage natural resources through field based education and scientific observation. The four-week field camp takes students to  both the North Island and South Island of New Zealand. Students will explore the Mt. Ruapehu, Waitomo Caves,  Banks Peninsula,  and the Southern Alps. Following field camp, students transition to University of Canterbury , where they enroll in four courses, one of which is a research methods course. Research projects range from environmental geochemistry projects to working with local Iwi (tribes) on habitat restoration projects.  Research projects are team focused and can be built upon data collected at field camp or part of ongoing data sets collected by Canterbury scientists. 


2023 Fall Semester Field Camp: June 25th –  July 17th (Dates may change)


2023 Field Camp Modules (subject to change):


Field Module 1: Introduction to Geologic Field Observations and Field Mapping Techniques 

Field module 1 introduces the various types of earth materials, processes and stratigraphic relationships, and how to record these (field notebooks) and depict these in geological maps and cross sections. The module is based on the principles of in-field training utilizing and developing basic field mapping skills such as the observation, recording and interpretation. In this module you will learn basic field mapping skills, including the compilation of a detailed stratigraphic column and geological map of a coastal exposure. You will be introduced to the various rock groups, the particulars of and how to describe variations of these rocks, and how to start interpreting geologic processes.


Field Module 2: Geomorphic and Bedrock Mapping of the Castle Hill Basin
This  module examines the geology and surgical deposits of Castle Hill basin, located in the eastern foothills of the Southern Alps, inland Canterbury. This part of the course will build upon your field mapping skills and include the compilation of a surficial and bedrock geologic map with contacts, key structures, deposits, and geomorphic features. Geologic mapping of the basin relies on the complex folding best expressed by a middle Tertiary limestone unit. You will develop an understanding of both the structural and geomorphic evolution of the basin, and subsequent uplift, deformation and periods of Quaternary glaciation.

Module 3 : Kaitiakitanga, Maori perspectives on natural hazards, resource management, and environmental restoration, Mt Ruepehu and Waitomo (North Island)

In module 2  we will also be explore the concept of kaitiakitanga (which loosely translates as ‘guardianship’). Kaitiakitanga played a crucial role in traditional Maori society, and is increasingly sought as an environmental paradigm in contemporary settings. As kaitiaki, Maori were responsible for ensuring the viability of land and resources for the following generations. Guidelines and methods were developed to meet the needs and requirements of traditional Maori communities. In this module, we will investigate some of the indigenous methods used and the challenges contemporary societies face when assessing how to implement the principle of kaitiakitanga in the 21st century. Students will be exposed first hand to the concept of kaitiakitanga by investigating various issues volcanic hazards at Mt Ruepehu. This module will conclude at Waitomo, where we will be introduced to Dr. Hikuroa’s family Marae and explore the world famous Waitomo Caves.


Module 4: Climate Change and Conservation in the Southern Alps

In this module we will apply the field methods you have developed in the last four weeks to investigate the challenges the Department of Conservation (DOC) faces managing the intersecting spheres of the earth system in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Today anthropogenic climate change and an exponential increase in international tourism are reshaping the park. In this rapidly changing environment, DOC is attempting to develop a management strategy that addresses the needs of a diverse group of stakeholders including overseas visitors (a crucial component of the NZ economy), NZ alpine climbers and nature enthusiasts, tour operators seeking to profit off (primarily) international tourists, and indigenous peoples for whom the land has cultural significance.


Program Information

Fall 2023 Dates June 25 - November 11

Applications due April  15th

Course Information:


Field Camp:

  • JNES373 – Earth Systems Science-Field Course (5 Credit Hours)


Semester Courses: During the semester you may take up to 4 courses.


The required semester courses is :

  • JNES374 – Research Methods in Environmental Sciences & Studies ***  Please note:  This course at Canterbury is ENVR 356

In total you receive 4 Semester Credits per course transcripted by the Skidmore College, in addition to 5 credit hours for field camp (up to 21 in total). Although ENVR356 is listed as 30 points at UC  it is still transcripted as 4 credits from Skidmore College


Tuition – 2023: $23,000 USD    

  1. Field Camp Tuition
  2. Field Camp Housing
  3. Field Camp Group Meals (this usually amounts to 4 days per week). You are responsible for other meals
  4. Semester tuition at the University of Canterbury
  5. Travel and health insurance
  6. Academic advising
  7. Skidmore Transcript


Other Program Costs:

  1. Housing: $4,800 USD
  2. USA –  NZ Airfare –  $1,500 – $2,000 (approximated)
  3. Board: Self-catered approximately $200 NZD per week

  • Books: Approximately $400 NZD

Apply Now

SEMESTER INFORMATION - UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY

Coursework at UC

Coursework at UC

Coursework at UC

During the semester you may take up to 4 courses.


The required Semester Courses are:

  • ENVR 356 Field Focused Research methods. (Please note: on the transcript you receive from Skidmore college this courses will be JNGE351D – Research Methods in Geology 
  • One course within the Department of Geological Sciences.

Elective Courses

  • Two courses of your choosing

Popular Courses at UC (based upon past student enrolment:

  • CHCH 101 - Strengthening communities through social innovation
  • Hist 243 - Kiwi Culture
  • Maor 107 - Aotearoa: introduction to Traditional Maori Society
  • Maor 212 - Maori and indigenous development
  • Watr 201: Water Resource Management

To view ES courses (Semester 1 is Spring):

  • Geology Courses 
  • Environmental Courses (Geography)
  • Environmental Courses (Environmental Sciences)
  • Waterways Courses

In total you can receive up to 21 credits from Skidmore College. 5 for field camp and up to 16 for the Semester at UC.

Life at UC

Coursework at UC

Coursework at UC

The University of Canterbury is located on New Zealand's South Island in Christchurch. Located and within hours  of campus world class hiking, climbing , camping and paddling - we recommend UC for adventurous students.  Want to get out. Most of our students join a club that provides opportunities (and transportation) to get off campus on the weekends. There are hiking, climbing, canoeing clubs that offer trips every weekend. For more information about clubs visit UC's student association website!


Living:

Students studying at Canterbury live in Ilam Apartments or Sonoda Apartments.  Both are located on campus and adjacent to large playing fields. On campus recreation centre is included. All apartments are self-catered, meaning you will cook for yourself. 


Medical Information:

Health Centre: The UC Health Centre is located on campus and is there to help you with medical (non-emergency) and counselling needs.  When you arrive on campus you will learn how to enrol in the health centre.  Click on the above link to learn more about UC's health centre.


Travel and Health Insurance: As part of your tuition you are provided with StudentSafe Medical and Travel Insurance. This is the preferred partner for UC. Please ensure you learn about the terms and conditions of the insurance we provide. You are usually required to pay for medical services and then submit a claim to be reimbursed. If you need to have a procedure that is covered we can help you get pre-approved so you do not have to pay. Remember, New Zealand has a socialised medical system. Medical and pharmaceutical costs are far less than in the US.


Download the UC StudentSafe Brochure

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