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Antarctica: Human Impacts on a Fragile Environment
Antarctica is a wondrous place, the “coldest, windiest, driest, highest, quietest, most remote, and least understood continent on earth.” It has been an object of human speculation for millennia and a prize for explorers, sealers and whalers, scientists, and geostrategists for over two hundred years. Examine this unique corner of the world and get a broad overview of its human and natural history....
Antarctica is a wondrous place, the “coldest, windiest, driest, highest, quietest, most remote, and least understood continent on earth.” It has been an object of human speculation for millennia and a prize for explorers, sealers and whalers, scientists, and geostrategists for over two hundred years. Examine this unique corner of the world and get a broad overview of its human and natural history. Special attention is given to Antarctica’s physical and ecological systems, human activity, sustainable tourism, and international collaborations. Attend weekly preparatory lectures online with Antarctic experts from around the globe during the fall semester and work on assignments, including a research essay focusing on a topic related to an area of your interest. Spend the winter break partici...
Program Highlights
Get to know Ushuaia, the gateway city to Antarctica, and discover how tourism has shaped this city at 'the end of the Earth'.
Visit Tierra del Fuego National Park with a local guide, a stunning introduction the dramatic mountain and lake vistas of Patagonia.
Voyage for about 10 days days on board an expedition ship, crossing the Drake Passage and exploring the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Journey by Zodiac landing craft on day excursions to Antarctica and expect to see penguins, seals, whales, icebergs, and a vast, quiet white wilderness.
Take the polar plunge challenge, a refreshing dip in Antarctic waters.
Media Gallery
Quick Details
- Rural Areas, Antarctica
- Argentina
- Winter
- Agriculture
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Architecture
- Arts
- See more
- American
- Canadian
Awards

Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
A once and a lifetime experience!
March 31, 2025by: Chloe Tanner - United StatesProgram: Antarctica: Human Impacts on a Fragile EnvironmentMy study abroad experience through the Antarctica Perspectives Winter Field Trip profoundly deepened my understanding of sustainable leadership and its real-world applications. Witnessing the delicate balance between environmental stewardship and economic goals in one of Earth’s most pristine regions reinforced the importance of long-term thinking and collaboration in addressing global challenges. The program transformed my perspective on sustainability, showing me the vital role of regulations and ethical decision-making in preserving fragile ecosystems. It also strengthened my leadership skills, teaching me to take initiative and contribute effectively, even in unfamiliar contexts. This journey has inspired me to integrate these lessons into my academic and professional pursuits, particularly in international business and foreign policy, while cultivating a lifelong passion for exploration and sustainable development.

A Life Changing Trip
March 30, 2025by: Olivia Brick - United StatesProgram: Antarctica: Human Impacts on a Fragile EnvironmentMy study abroad experience in Antarctica was truly unforgettable, a journey that rejuvenated my soul. Words fail to capture the essence of this extraordinary adventure—otherworldly, incredibly beautiful, and utterly breathtaking.

Experiencing a Unique Environment
December 03, 2024by: Dory Raterman - United StatesProgram: Antarctica: Human Impacts on a Fragile EnvironmentTaking a part of the Hokies Abroad trip to Antarctica was one of the most unique and exciting experiences I've had the opportunity to be a part of. As an undergraduate student currently studying the conservation sciences, I have had the opportunity to study and work with multiple environments, but Antarctica was like no other. The landscape, animals, climate, and overall environment was so different from anywhere else I have been, and overall contributed to a unique place of study and an amazing abroad experience.
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Rural Areas, Antarctica
- Argentina
Types and Subjects
- Subjects & Courses
- Agriculture
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
Availability
Years Offered: 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026
Age Requirement
Age Requirement Varies
Guidelines
- American
- Canadian
- This Program is also open to Solo, Group
Cost per week
Program Cost Includes
- Tuition & Fees
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- All Program Activity Costs
- Group Meals
Accommodation Options
- Group living
- Other
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Transcript
- Letters of Reference
- Online Application
Ready to Learn More?
Antarctica is a wondrous place, the “coldest, windiest, driest, highest, quietest, most remote, and least understood continent on earth.” It has been an object of human speculation for millennia and a prize for explorers, sealers and whalers, scientists, and geostrategists for over two hundred years. Examine this unique corner of the world and get a broad overview of its human and natural history. Special attention is given to Antarctica’s physical and ecological systems, human activity, sustainable tourism, and international collaborations. Attend weekly preparatory lectures online with Antarctic experts from around the globe during the fall semester and work on assignments, including a research essay focusing on a topic related to an area of your interest. Spend the winter break partici...

AUIP - American Universities International Programs

AUIP - American Universities International Programs
Ready to Learn More?
Antarctica is a wondrous place, the “coldest, windiest, driest, highest, quietest, most remote, and least understood continent on earth.” It has been an object of human speculation for millennia and a prize for explorers, sealers and whalers, scientists, and geostrategists for over two hundred years. Examine this unique corner of the world and get a broad overview of its human and natural history. Special attention is given to Antarctica’s physical and ecological systems, human activity, sustainable tourism, and international collaborations. Attend weekly preparatory lectures online with Antarctic experts from around the globe during the fall semester and work on assignments, including a research essay focusing on a topic related to an area of your interest. Spend the winter break partici...