Science in London

Summer 2008: May 11- May 31 (tentative dates)

Program Location

Welcome to London, the capital of England, the U.K., and perhaps the world!  London provides an unparalleled opportunity to examine first hand the influence of past and current British scientists on the world’s hottest scientific issues. Come live and learn in this global, historical, modern, and vibrant city.  There is no better location to earn your General Education group 2 science or elective credits!

Academic Program

This program is designed for General Education students of all majors to explore the scientific basis of our understanding of our physical universe, with an emphasis on British contributions.  Students will examine the scientific and social forces behind key scientific issues such as stem cell research and climate change, focusing on differences between U.S. and U.K attitudes and responses. As resources, participants will use selected readings from popular books and science magazines, as well as visits to Stonehenge, the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, Darwin’s residence, the Natural History Museum with a Darwin Centre tour, British Science Museum, and Cambridge University and city.

Students will also take part in numerous cultural events and attractions, including plays and musical performances, art and history museums, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Windsor Castle and St Paul’s Cathedral, to name but a few. Please click here for a tentative itinerary.

Instructional methods include lectures, guided tours, journal assignment and/or papers, and exams.

Tentative course offerings:
GSCI 101/101H Chemistry, Physics and the Human Experience , 3 credits
GSCI 104/104H Scientific Perspectives, 1 credit
Please click here for a course syllabus.

Accommodations

Students will live in a small family-run hotel in the Bloomsbury area, within walking distance of the British Museum, Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street shopping area, Soho, Regents Park, inexpensive ethnic restaurants, cinemas, and Theatre Land.   There are numerous bus and tube stations within several blocks of the hotel, and with the provided zone 1-2 passes, the city is yours. Some group meals will be provided as well.

Program Costs

For the current projected costs for this program, please click on the following link to the Fees for JMU Study Abroad Programs page.

Application

For more detailed instructions and to download the application, please click on the following link to the Applications and Forms section for JMU Short-Term Programs.

In addition to the Short-term Application, a personal interview will also be required. Students of all majors and classes, including freshmen, are welcome.

For More Information

For additional information about the Science in London program, please contact the program director:

Dr. Deborah Warnaar
Lecturer, Department of Chemistry
Tel: 540-568-7904
Email:warnaadl@jmu.edu
csm.jmu.edu/chemistry/faculty/warnaar/London.htm