The Bader International Study Centre (BISC) will offer two new programs this summer that combine Queen’s for-credit courses and practical learning experiences.

“Our new summer field schools focused on biodiversity research and British archaeology take advantage of Herstmonceux Castle’s unique geographical location to offer students unparalleled exposure to experiential learning environments,” says Bruce Stanley, Director, BISC.

Both five-week intensive programs include two for-credit courses. For the Field School in Biodiversity Research program, students complete the courses through a combination of class sessions and fieldwork around Herstmonceux Castle. They learn how to physically collect relevant baseline data, and then how to collate that data with national databases. The program concludes with a five-day field trip to the Wild Ennerdale Project in the Lake District of England where students will apply their research skills in a new landscape.

Students enrolled in Introduction to British Archaeology spend four weeks both digging as well as studying the history and archaeology of Roman Britain and Medieval Britain. They get their hands dirty finding walls and pottery, analyzing their finds and cataloguing them. During the last week, they visit several of England’s greatest archaeology sites where they may have an opportunity to excavate.

The field schools are part of an ongoing effort to expand practical and classroom learning opportunities at the BISC. Queen’s students as well as people attending other universities can apply for the field schools.

Complete information on the field schools can be found on the BISC website.