FALL 2025 Applications have been extended! Apply here by July 13th, 2025.
The Trip: Fall Reading Week
Approximate Travel Dates: Fall Reading Week Saturday October 25 - Sunday November 2, 2025. (Plus or minus two days before and after - exact dates and times will be communicated to you at the pre-departure session).
Join fellow classmates and Professor Kate Maddalena during Fall Reading Week for an immersive experience in Venice, Italy, exploring the intersection of architecture, climate adaptation, and cultural heritage. Through the Cities, Cultures, and Climate Futures program, you’ll engage with experts from various educational institutions such as Ca’ Foscari University, or visit the Biennale Architettura 2025, and collaborate with local students on sustainable urban design.
As you navigate Venice’s canals and historic sites, you’ll examine climate resilience firsthand, from the MOSE flood barrier system to innovative architectural projects. This program offers a unique opportunity to study global climate challenges while experiencing one of the world’s most culturally and environmentally significant cities. *
Why Participate?
- Immerse yourself in Venice's unique urban landscape and culture, experiencing course content firsthand.
- Learn about local and global contexts that influence Venice’s major industries, focusing on architecture, climate adaptation, and cultural heritage.
- Establish connections with fellow students and your professor.
- Add international experience to your resume.
Sample Itinerary*
*The itinerary is subject to change based on the availability and requirements of the program.
Accommodation: Hotel
Transportation: Private Shuttles, Taxis, Public Buses, and Tour Busses.
Meals: Hotel, and Local Restaurants
Upon arrival, students will settle into their accommodations at the Cultural Center Don Orione Artigianelli, followed by a guided tour of Venice. This introduction will highlight the city’s unique historical and environmental challenges, setting the stage for the days ahead. The second day features a visit to Ca’ Foscari University, where students will attend a guest lecture on climate adaptation and collaborate with local student partners to exchange ideas.
A major highlight of the program is a full-day exploration of the Biennale Architettura, where students will analyze architectural innovations addressing climate resilience. The following day allows for a debrief session, encouraging critical reflection before preparing for a workshop with Mestre high school students. This collaboration fosters cross-cultural dialogue on climate, cities, and art, offering a hands-on learning experience.
The final days include visits to key environmental projects, such as the MOSE flood barrier system, which protects Venice from rising sea levels. Students will also have opportunities for independent exploration before culminating their experience with group presentations and a farewell dinner. This program ensures a well-rounded balance of academic engagement, cultural discovery, and professional development, leaving students with a deeper understanding of climate challenges and urban sustainability.
Payments
Estimated cost of International Component 2025-2026: CAD $4300-4600. (Final Installments will be determined based on the final trip cost).
What is Included: Flights, transportation, accommodation, meals, in-country activities associated with the course, and trip-cancellation insurance. Funding Available!
What is NOT Included: Course fees, fees associated with supplemental travel insurance, additional optional tours/activities while abroad, visa applications, medical exams, vaccinations, on-the-ground medical expenses, and any other additional costs.
Funding
Bursaries will be awarded based on demonstrated financial need (not linked to OSAP) as shown in your funding request in your UTM Abroad application. Read more about funding here!
If you have applied for a bursary, you will hear back about your bursary application at the same time as your trip application. Once you hear back, you will have about one week to decide whether to participate in the trip based on the bursary awarded. Please review the bursary policies here, and cancellation policies here.
Payment Schedule
| Payment | Amount | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Installment | $250.00 | With Application |
| 2nd Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 3rd Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 4th Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 5th Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 6th Installment | $250-550** | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
**Final Installment will be determined based on the final trip cost. Each installment is due approximately every two weeks (biweekly)- Refer to exact dates in your acceptance email.
Testimonials
- See what your peers say here.
Need To Know
- The cost and itinerary are subject to change. The information on this page is for general reference and is subject to change. Specific and up-to-date details regarding itineraries, the final cost, and additional program requirements will be communicated through email from at the pre-departure sessions. Please refer to those communications for the most accurate and up-to-date information. If you have any questions or need clarification, we encourage you to contact UTM Abroad. We look forward to your application and are here to support you on this exciting journey!
- For the full list of Terms and Conditions, please click here.
- Applicants must submit an application for admission into the course to their respective departments and will be required to abide by the corresponding UTM Abroad application requirements and deadlines to participate in the international experience.
- Fees must be paid in full by the required deadlines.
- To prepare for the trip, students attending will participate in the mandatory pre-departure sessions which occur in person on campus.
Questions?
Book a Global Learning Advising appointment through CLNx, email us at [email protected].