James Spee
Professor
May Term Course
The Alps: Environment, Culture, and Society
Austria SALZ 360B, faculty-led by Professor James Spee. The application deadline is October 1, 2026.
Course description
What if travel became a journey of discovery, not just sightseeing? Based in Salzburg, Austria, this May Term course uses the Alps as your classroom. You'll explore breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and contemporary challenges while designing a research project around your own interests.
Highlights include hikes on Gaisberg and Zugspitze, visits to an Alpine farm and the Salzkammergut, and a research journey through Switzerland and Germany. Through a travel journal and independent weekend excursions, you'll develop curiosity, confidence, and a deeper connection to the region. Your final project combines field observations, academic research, creativity, and AI-powered inquiry, leaving you with new perspectives, lasting memories, and meaningful insights.
Dates
May 5 – June 2, 2027
Enrollment limit
15 students
Course fee
$2500 (15 students) - $2800 (10 students)
Included in the course fee:
- Accommodations: Lodging at the Salzburg Campus from May 7 to June 2, 2027
- Meals: All meals first weekend, breakfast and lunch Monday to Thursday when in Salzburg. Dinners Monday to Wednesday when in Salzburg.
- Transportation: On-site bus and train passes near Salzburg and private bus charter for 4-day trip to German and Swiss Alps week 3.
- Excursions & Admissions: Salzburg Hallein Salt Mine, Salzburg Open Air Museum, Wolfgangsee lake cruise, 2 days in Garmisch-Partenkirchen with local museum, bus, and lift pass, museum Stamperia in Tschlin, Switzerland with local guide, outdoor concert in Salzburg, final dinner and concert in the Salzburg Fores, and a tour of a local farm.
- Insurance & Fees: International health & emergency insurance, course materials.
Not included in the course fee:
- Round-Trip Airfare: $1500
- Uncovered Meals: $850
- Passport / Visa Fees: $200 (if applicable)
- Cell Phone / Data Plan: $Depends on carrier
- Personal Spending / Souvenirs: $1000
- Lodging if leaving campus Thursday to Sunday
- Ground Transportation: If leaving Salzburg campus Thursday to Sunday
For questions about the travel course, please contact the faculty-leader
James Spee at james_spee@redlands.edu or +1-909-997-2252.
Office of Global Education
Hours of operation
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Office of Global Education oversees Study Away and International Student & Scholar Success. For general questions, email us and we’ll ensure your inquiry is routed to the right person.
Contact Us
Duke Hall 104
