College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science

Study Abroad: Scotland

Scotland is known for its breathtakingly beautiful scenery and rugged and remote landscapes, yet is teeming with history and wildlife and opportunities for adventure!  The Wilds of Scotland is an immersive, faculty-led study abroad experience where students will explore the history, ecology, and management of Scotland’s Caledonian forests and landscapes through hands-on field experiences in the Scottish Highlands. Students will connect with the natural and cultural history of the region while considering the future of its landscapes, the role of environmental stewardship, and the movement toward rewilding in Scotland.

Walk along the hills and ridges of the Cairngorms National Park.  Visit the shores of Loch Ness and learn about the history, legends, and ecology of the surrounding Highlands.  Explore the historic city of Inverness, the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands, and discover its connection to the surrounding landscapes that shape the region today.

The next program is planned for Summer 2027. 

Who Can Apply?

The trip is open to all majors! We will be doing some moderate hiking as we explore the Highlands, so please keep that in mind. 

Itinerary Snapshot

  • Hike in the Cairngorms National Forest and old growth Caledonian Pines
  • Explore Dundreggan Rewildling Centre to experience rewilding in action
  • Visit Aviemore and the Northern Corries, unique habitats and wild roaming reindeer herds
  • Travel to Loch Ness Visitor Centre, Urquhart Castle, and woodlands surrounding the village of Drumnadrochit
  • Walk in the Clava Cairns and Culloden Woods, to explore where history influences cultural landscapes
  • See many other forests and woodlands, waterways, cultural sites, educational centers, and more in Inverness

Students will also have time to explore on their own, discover Gaelic culture, and immerse themselves in Scotland!

scenic landscape views over mountains and forest in Cairngorms national park in the highlands of scotland
Cairngorms National Park

Wilds of Scotland Faculty Leaders

Tara Bal

Tara Bal

  • Associate Professor, Forest Health
  • Master of Forestry Degree Program Director
  • Wood Protection Group, Microbiology/Pathology Lab Leader
Molly Cavaleri

Molly Cavaleri

  • Associate Dean & Professor
  • Director of Graduate Studies

 

Courses in the Program

Students must take both courses in the program for a total of 6 credits. Coursework will be delivered online before and after international travel during Track B.

FW 3114: Reading the Forest

Reading the Forest is an international, ecologically focused travel course emphasizing observational learning. Students study forest ecology topics, natural disturbances, and human-derived impacts that shape the forests around us. Connecting to the natural world and place-based learning influences the way we make observations, allowing us to think deeper about how the past and the present shape forested landscapes.

  • Instructor: Tara Bal, Forest Resources and Environmental Science
  • 3 credits
  • Essential Education Experience

FW 3117: Forests of the Future

Forests of the Future is an international travel course that links together concepts of climate change, tree physiology, and how we interact with and communicate about forests. Students will learn about how forests work and how they are responding to our changing climate. Students will also explore ways of communicating about complex topics like climate change and how trees interact with each other and their environment.

  • Instructor: Molly Cavaleri, Forest Resources and Environmental Science
  • 3 credits
  • Essential Education: STEM

 

Urquhart Castle. Inverness. Scotland

Program Cost

Lab fee ($3,400) and 6 credits. Fee includes lodging, transportation in-country, activity costs such as excursion & entrance fees, majority of meals in Scotland, travel insurance, departure taxes and customs fees. Students are responsible for arrival and departure travel. 

Schedule Overview

  • At least one travel planning session for students in spring/early summer
  • Online classes before and after travel during Track B (June 28-August 6, 2027)
  • Two travel days there and back
  • A full 11 days exploration in-country around Inverness and the Cairngorms in July!

 

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Students can cover all program costs with financial aid. To qualify for financial aid, you must take 12 credit hours during the summer (Track A and Track B combined).

Students may receive up to 6 credit hours for this program during Track B. Michigan Tech students who wish to take 12 summer credit hours may take additional credits during Track A to meet their credit requirements. A small number of Independent Study options are sometimes available with program faculty. Please contact one of the program leaders if you're interested in this option.

Consult with the Michigan Tech Financial Aid Office, or the financial aid office at your home university, for more information about how to fund your study abroad experience.

Other Things to Consider

Have questions about studying aboard? Your Faculty Leader can help you with your pre-departure. Michigan Tech has standard policies on academic misconduct and complies with all federal and state laws and regulations regarding discrimination, including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Here are some other resources that will help you with your visit:

Behavior and Expectations

Students are expected to abide by the Michigan Tech student conduct code. There is zero tolerance for drug use. Violations will result in immediate expulsion from the program and no refund.

Health and Safety

Reasonable precautions should be taken as in any area abroad. Faculty Leaders will assist you in finding the closest medical facilities.

Accommodations

For more information about reasonable accommodation for or equal access to education or services at Michigan Tech, please call the Dean of Students Office, at 906-487- 2212 or follow the link above.