Faculty-led Program in Scotland

Course: FamServ 3145/5145: Violence in Intimate Relationships  (3 credit hours) 

• No prerequisites. All majors welcome. 
• This course can be used for many majors and is an option in the Mental Health Minor.
• Students who have already completed this course can take the alternative Family Services 4198.
• The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in their course. 
• Students planning to participate in the spring commencement ceremony in May can enroll in this summer term program, however, their degree will not be conferred until the end of the summer term and is contingent on the successful completion of the program and all required coursework.
• Talk to your academic advisor about how this course would work for you!

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the nature of violence in intimate and domestic relationships from a Scottish and American perspective. Scotland is known for creating innovative approaches to ending violence. As such the course will offer an immersive exploration of  the land, culture, prevention and intervention models and frameworks that are utilized in the field of policy and practice both in Scotland and the United States. Students will experience Scotland and meet and learn from those who are shaping policy, practice  and programs from the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to the Highlands of Scotland.

Participation in this program requires several class meetings throughout the spring semester, although participants will be enrolled into a summer course. Please contact the program's course leader for more information on academic requirements.  

Course Leader: Michael Fleming

Department: Family, Aging, and Counseling
Campus Address: LAT 221

Michael has taught and worked in understanding violence in interpersonal relationships for much of his professional life.  He serves as the Co-Director of the Patricia A Tomson Center for Violence Prevention at UNI.  This work has involved working with colleagues from Scotland and elsewhere. He is looking forward to bringing students to Scotland for a second time to experience and learn from the culture of Scotland and to hear and learn from the passion of those working in this area. 

This program to Scotland offers students a unique blend of social justice education with cultural exploration, offering students firsthand insight into Scotland’s approach to addressing gender-based violence. Participants will engage with national leaders creating and implementing policies as well as frontline organizations providing advocacy and resources to explore how the country addresses domestic and sexual violence. Students will have the opportunity to explore multiple renowned Scottish cities and towns throughout the few weeks abroad, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and more. Midway through the program, students will also embark on an immersive journey into the Scottish Highlands where storytelling and history deepen the understanding of Scottish culture and advocacy. The journey concludes back in urban Scotland with time for personal exploration, reflection, and connection across landscapes, communities, and key social issues, rounding out this transformative journey.

Studying abroad offers rich cultural immersion, but it may also involve unfamiliar sensory experiences. You might encounter new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and environmental conditions that differ significantly from what you're used to. These can be exciting but also overwhelming for some individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage all participants to approach these experiences with curiosity and adaptability. If you have sensory sensitivities or specific concerns, please reach out to program staff.

Students will stay in hotels and hostels arranged by the Study Abroad Center while abroad. The cost of these housing accommodations are included in the “Program Cost” line item of the program cost estimate. A few meals are also built into the "Program Cost". Students will pay for the remaining meals out-of-pocket while traveling and are encouraged to try the local foods. 

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend talking to your healthcare provider early. At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

Feel free to connect with the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility & Study Abroad:

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern, whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs, we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

A faculty-led study abroad program combines academic learning with cultural immersion, guided by university faculty. Students earn credit through hands-on experiences and site visits tailored to the destination. The program fosters a strong sense of community through shared housing, group activities, and cultural events, creating lasting bonds among participants. This type of program has limited individual free time and days will be spent primarily with other group members. If you are interested in a more individualized program experience, we encourage you to check out our partner university summer school opportunities.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Entry and Exit Requirements 

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to the United Kingdom

The Study Abroad Center reserves the right to determine participants' eligibility to study abroad. Students must have a completed study abroad application, including supportive recommendation form(s). View eligibility requirements.