Circumpolar Studies online courses explore Arctic issues in a global context – apply by 16 August
An international learning experience from home
The autumn semester of the Circumpolar Studies programme runs from September to December 2026. Four English-language online courses are available, delivered by Canadian universities as part of the international UArctic network. The courses provide an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of Arctic environments, cultures, societies and contemporary challenges in a truly international learning environment. These courses are an excellent way to gain international experience without leaving Finland. Participants study online alongside Canadian students and students from other UArctic member institutions, creating valuable opportunities for internationalisation at home, global networking and learning from diverse perspectives. Courses are delivered through an online learning platform similar to Moodle, and each course is worth 6 ECTS credits.
The programme is open to all Tampere University degree and exchange students regardless of academic discipline or study level. It is particularly well suited to students interested in climate change, sustainable development, Indigenous peoples, northern societies or international cooperation. Circumpolar Studies courses can be recognised as part of a degree programme, and the credits may also be included in the university’s internationalisation module (for degree students only).
The following courses will be offered during the autumn 2026 semester:
- CS 100 – Introduction to the Circumpolar World (6 ECTS)
- CS 311 – Land and Environment of the Circumpolar World I (6 ECTS)
- CS 321 – Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar World I (6 ECTS)
- CS 331 – Contemporary Issues of the Circumpolar World I (6 ECTS)
CS 100 is the foundation course of the programme and has no prerequisite requirements. It is open to all new applicants and students from all academic backgrounds. For CS 311, CS 321 and CS 331, successful completion of CS 100 is required. If you are taking CS 100 for the first time during autumn 2026, you will not be eligible to register simultaneously in these advanced courses.
Upon successful completion of a course, students receive a North American transcript that can be used to apply for credit transfer towards their degree at Tampere University. Please note that transcripts are typically issued 6–12 weeks after the course has ended, so students should not rely on these courses for immediate graduation requirements.
A pathway to international studies and north2north exchange
Circumpolar Studies can also serve as a stepping stone to broader international opportunities. Arctic-focused studies support applications to the north2north exchange programme, and Arctic-related academic experience may provide additional merit in the selection process. A supplementary application round for spring 2027 north2north exchange destinations will be organised in September. Courses completed during an exchange period may also be included in the internationalisation module of your degree.
How to apply
To apply, submit a completed and signed application form in PDF format to Igor Tanskanen, the north2north programme contact person, no later than 16 August 2026. The application form is available through the intranet version of this announcement. Late applications and applications submitted without a signature will not be considered. Places are limited. Tampere University will make preliminary nominations, after which the final selection will be made by the host institution offering the course.
Further information
- Student’s Guide: Instructions for outgoing cross-institutional students
- Student’s Guide: Student exchange programmes and networks
- UArctic: Participate in Circumpolar Studies
- Questions about the courses can be sent to circumpolarstudies [at] trentu.ca
