England and Scotland

Tides & Testimonies: Creative Nonfiction and Aquatic Life in Britain  

Dates: July 14 - August 5, 2027
Required Online Pre-departure Coursework: July 6-12, 2027

Landscape photo of Big Ben in London.

Description: What if your classroom stretched from the banks of the River Trent to the streets of Edinburgh? This immersive study abroad experience brings literature, culture, history, and environmental science to life as you explore England and Scotland through creative nonfiction and aquatic biology.

In Nottingham, discover the River Trent, explore the legends of Robin Hood, and conduct hands-on field research at Attenborough Nature Reserve, where freshwater ecosystems and wetlands become your classroom.

Experience the energy and history of London with visits to the British Museum, British Library, and Greenwich’s Royal Maritime Museum. Cruise down the River Thames while exploring Britain’s maritime heritage, then encounter iconic landmarks including Big Ben, the London Eye, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Shakespeare’s Globe.

In Brighton, get outside the classroom to visit the world’s oldest aquarium and to investigate coastal ecology where you will turn your observations of the English Channel into part of your personal journey. 

At Chatsworth House and Estate, a renowned stately home in the Peak District and home to the Cavendish family since 1542, discover how landscapes connect art, history, environmental stewardship, and culture in a setting that has been used in many major films.

Then head north to Edinburgh, a UNESCO City of Literature. Explore Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, walk the historic Royal Mile, visit Holyrood Palace, and venture beneath the city at The Real Mary King’s Close, where hidden histories become inspiration for storytelling.  On Cramond Island, investigate tidal cycles, coastal ecosystems, and marine biodiversity through fieldwork at the mouth of the River Almond.

Along the way, you’ll explore remarkable places, conduct field research, uncover untold stories, and create original writing. This is more than a trip—it’s an opportunity to experience Britain through science, storytelling, and your own journey of discovery.

Course Enrollment (both courses required): 

ENG 217: Personal & Exploratory Writing, 3 cr.; fulfills L

  • Instructor: Dr. Mary E. Aldridge

BIO 149SV: Field Biology: Ecological and Environmental Field Experience, 1 cr.

  • Instructor: Dr. Alexander Cheroske

Program Excursions: 

  • London: The British Museum and the British Library
  • Nottingham: Attenborough Nature Reserve
  • Brighton: Brighton Pier and Brighton Aquarium
  • Derbyshire: Chatsworth House and Gardens
  • London: Thames River Cruise, Greenwich, and Maritime Museum
  • Edinburgh: Real Mary King's Close, the Royal Mile, the Museum of Scotland, and The Writer's Museum
  • Cramond, Scotland: Cramond Island

Estimated Program Costs & Deadlines

Expense TypeEstimated Cost                            Deadlines and Information

Program Fee

Includes lodging, academic facilities, cultural excursions, and in-country ground transportation. 

$2,800 

Program Fee Due: March 26, 2027

$250 Confirmation Deposit Due (towards total program fee): upon acceptance

Confirmation deposit is non-refundable after the program fee payment deadline.

Registration Fee

Tuition: 4 credits

In-state: $97 per credit hour
Out-of-state: $217 per credit hour ($1,317 incl registration fee)

$15

$388

  • Registration for Summer term begins in March.
  • View Tuition due dates: HERE
  • For payment options see cashiers services
  • If not a current MCC student, you must admit yourself to MCC, prior to registering for courses.
  • For payment assistance, call 480.461.7400 or contact Cashier Services.
 Airfare (estimated cost)$1,800

Prior to purchase of airfare, please contact your program director who will provide you with instructions on purchasing airfare for your program once minimum enrollment has been met. 

It is recommended that you purchase trip cancellation insurance in the event you are unable to attend due to new job opportunities, illness or an emergency.

Meals

Meals are NOT included in program fee

$500 

ETA Travel Authorisation

(not included in program fee)

$28

​​An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) lets you travel to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man for up to 6 months.

You can get an ETA for tourism, visiting family or for certain other reasons. Most visitors need an ETA or a visa. What you need depends on:

  • your nationality
  • why you’re coming to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man

Please be sure to review the visa and immigration requirements.

TOTAL Estimated Costs$5,503.00 
Additional Costs 

Passport

  • Be sure to allow at least 8-10 weeks of processing time for first time applicants and renewals.
  • Visit the U.S. Department of State website for current fees and processing times.
  • Passport Information can be viewed on the travel.state.gov webpage.
  • Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date of your return to the USA.
$165/130
(new/renewal)

Important Program Dates

Application Opens: October 2027 (exact date is to be announced)

Application Deadline: March 5, 2027 (late applications accepted on case-by-case basis) 

Payment Deadline: March 26, 2027

Mandatory Study Abroad Orientation: April 10, 2027

 

For More Information Contact: 

Mary E. Aldridge, Ph.D.

Mesa Community College

[email protected]

480-461-7361