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Sicily: Volcanology and the Environment

University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP)
Syracuse
This intensive summer program explores volcanism and the implications of volcanic activity through the study of Mt. Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world and a perfect natural laboratory thanks to its peculiar characteristics.

The course focuses on the historical and contemporary impact of Etna on the local ecosystem and human activity in Sicily. The program includes a theoretical volcanology course, a fieldwork component, and a unit on scientific writing.

Excellence in field work
Through regular visits to Mt. Etna and an excursion to the Aeolian Islands volcanic archipelago, students explore modern volcano monitoring techniques with an emphasis on geophysical and geochemical methods. During the second half of the program, students develop and complete fieldwork projects under faculty guidance, collecting data related to volcanic and seismic risk assessment and mitigation, georesources and geothermal exploration, and volcanic environmental impact.


In the hands of experts
The course is conducted in collaboration with the Catania-based team of the National Institute of Volcanology and Geophysics (INGV). The organization is responsible for monitoring and surveying volcanic activity in the Etna area, as well as devising and implementing safety protocol for related research activity. The course is developed and taught by a senior researcher from INGV.

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