Snapshot
Dates
| Term | Application Deadline | Program Start | Program End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer 2026 | February 1, 2026 | August 11, 2026 | August 21, 2026 |
About the Program
| Date | Program Itinerary |
| 8/11/26 | Fly from U.S. to Finland |
| 8/12/26 |
|
| 8/13/26 | Preparation day at Xamk campus |
| 8/14/26 | Bus to Lapland and night in Vasatokka Youth Center |
| 8/15/26 | Start the hike |
| 8/16/26 | Hike |
| 8/17/26 | Hike |
| 8/18/26 | Hike |
| 8/19/26 | Hike |
| 8/20/26 | Hike |
| 8/21/26 |
|
Space is limited. 10 spots will be reserved for UMD students so apply early to secure a spot on the program.
Academics
Priority will be given to Environmental and Outdoor Education majors and minors.
Outdoor Leadership in Finnish Lapland (ILSA/ENED 3311), 3 credits
This experiential field course immerses students in the wild landscapes of Finnish Lapland to explore outdoor education, environmental awareness, and group leadership in challenging natural conditions. Through an eight-day wilderness hike in the Muotkatunturit region, participants develop hiking, camping, and navigation skills while deepening their understanding of nature as a learning environment. Students from partner universities in Finland, Austria, Germany, and the U.S. collaborate in multicultural teams, focusing on group dynamics, self-reliance, and personal growth. Pre-trip planning and reflection sessions complement the field experience, fostering responsibility, teamwork, and respect for the natural world.
This course is approved to count for:
- Environmental and Outdoor Education majors and minors
Cost Information
Use this cost estimate to help calculate expenses and budget for your study abroad program. This includes all program fees billed to your UMD student account and necessary out-of-pocket expenses. Please note that cost estimates and fees may change depending on international economic factors. We will post final fees once enrollments, inflation, and exchange rates are determined in order to provide the most accurate pricing. We strive to post final fees by October 1 for Winter and Spring programs, March 1 for May/Summer programs, and May 1 for Fall and Academic Year programs. This cost does not include the $50 application fee.
Please note this estimate does not account for unexpected expenses such as mid-program quarantine. Students can learn more about their host country requirements by visiting the State Department website. Students should also refer to the required On Call International to see what is covered in the event a traveler needs medical attention or tests positive for COVID-19.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- Scholarships are available!
- Financial aid applies! Share the cost estimate with One Stop Student Services to understand how your financial aid can contribute to your study abroad program.
- Note: Credits taken on study abroad programs cannot be used toward the Bulldog Bundle.
Travel Documents
Get a passport right on campus! Processing times vary, but it can take several weeks to a few months to receive one. If you already have a passport, make sure its expiration date goes at least 6 months beyond the end date of your program so it's valid the entire time you're abroad.
Contact
Program Instructors
Matti Erpestad, MEED, is an Instructor and Program Coordinator for the Environmental & Outdoor Education Program in the College of Education and Human Service Professions.
UMD College of Education and Human Service Professions
Dept. of Environmental & Outdoor Education
SpHC 127
218-726-7333
[email protected]
Study Abroad Instructor-Led Program Coordinator
Apply
Before you click on the "Start my application" button below, make sure you know how to identify the correct program by searching for the:
- Program Name: UMD - Instructor-Led: Outdoor Leadership in Finnish Lapland;
and the - Term (e.g. Summer Session 2026)
A $50 non-refundable application fee will be billed to your One Stop account upon submission of an application.
After you apply
- After approximately 20 minutes, you will see checklist items for you to complete.
- All application checklist items need to be submitted by the application deadline which is noted near the top of the page.
- Your UMD Program Contact will review your application materials.
- You must complete the Confirmation of Participation form to confirm your participation.
- Once we receive your confirmation, your UMD account will be billed a confirmation deposit.
If you decide you cannot participate, you must log in to the online application system and submit the "Cancellation Request form."
Program health and safety information
is available at GO SAFE.
