Global interest in the circumpolar region is on the rise, and this program will catapult you into the most important topics surrounding its people and landscapes, its geographical and historical contexts, and issues of security in a changing political and environmental climate. This interdisciplinary option in Circumpolar Studies will deepen your understanding of Northern perspectives. You will explore the rich diversity of the region and discuss everything from Indigenous issues to sustainable development and physical geography. Developed by University of the Arctic specialists, together with experts from Trent’s School of Environment, the Chanie Wenjack School of Indigenous Studies, and more, this flexible learning opportunity will prepare you for a future focused on the Canadian North and beyond.

An option is a “mini-minor” – a set of courses in one discipline that can be completed in conjunction with any undergraduate degree program, allowing you to focus on an additional subject of interest.General Admission Requirements:

The Circumpolar Studies Option is open to all existing undergraduate students at Trent University.

Program Coordinator:

Heather Nicol (heathernicol@trentu.ca)

The Option in Circumpolar Studies connects students to the emerging field of Arctic and Northern Studies. It has been inspired by the importance of the Circumpolar World under conditions of climate change, globalization and unprecedented accessibility of the Circumpolar region to the outside world.  This interdisciplinary option will be of importance for students engaged in political studies, geography and natural sciences, legal and health studies, history, cultural and indigenous studies, and the study of Canada more broadly.

Students who have fulfilled the requirements for an Honours or a General degree in any subject may graduate with an Option in Circumpolar Studies if they have also successfully completed the courses listed below.

The Option in Circumpolar Studies consists of the following 4.0 credits:

• 2.5 GEOG credits consisting of GEOG 1045H, 2320H, 2330H, 3390H, and 3640H
• 0.5 ERST credit consisting of ERST 3740H
• 1.0 INDG credit consisting of INDG 3745H and 3750H

Career Paths

• Public Service
• Cultural and Heritage Consultant
• Immigration and Human Rights
• Public Health
• Geoscience Consultant
• Diplomat
• Journalist
• United Nations Official International Civil Servant
• Educator
• Policy Professional