Study Online at the University of Iceland: Aurora Offers Four Courses in Early 2027
Students at Palacký University Olomouc can take part in four online courses offered by the University of Iceland through the Aurora alliance. The courses available for the spring semester of 2027 cover sustainability education, European intellectual traditions, gender studies, and theology. All courses are taught in English, and students can earn 5 or 6 ECTS credits upon successful completion. The application deadline is 1 December 2026.
Sustainability Education and Learning
The course explores ways to integrate sustainability principles into education, teaching, and leisure activities. Participants will become familiar with various approaches to sustainability education, ranging from experiential and place-based learning to encouraging behavioural change. The course also examines the connections between technology, science, creativity, and social sustainability. Teaching is based on active student participation, discussions, and collaborative assignments.
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Credits: 5 ECTS
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Course dates: 11 January – 23 April 2027
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Eligible students: Master’s students
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Language requirements: English at B2 level or higher
Further information:
Languages and Culture: The European Intellectual Tradition
How has European thought shaped society, politics, and culture? This course introduces influential European thinkers of the 19th and 20th centuries whose ideas often extended beyond academia and influenced public debates. Students will read and discuss selected texts, explore their critical interpretations, and examine the relationship between intellectual traditions and social developments. The course also encourages critical reflection on Eurocentrism and the extent to which European intellectual traditions have been shaped by specific historical and cultural contexts.
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Credits: 5 ECTS
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Course dates: 11 January – 23 April 2027
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Eligible students: Third-year bachelor’s students and master’s students (minimum 120 ECTS credits)
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Language requirements: English at B2 level or higher
Further information:
Applied Gender Studies for International Students
This course provides an introduction to gender studies, focusing on the practical application of equality and diversity principles across different areas of society. Students will explore the historical development of gender equality, intersectionality, and methods for integrating gender perspectives into public policies and decision-making processes. The course also addresses gender-responsive budgeting and questions of representation of different groups in society. The knowledge gained can be applied in fields such as public administration, international organisations, education, and the media.
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Credits: 6 ECTS
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Course dates: 11 January – 23 April 2027
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Eligible students: Master’s students
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Language requirements: English at B2 level or higher
Further information:
Queer Theologies
This course introduces contemporary approaches to queer theology that critically examine traditional understandings of gender, sexuality, and identity in religious contexts. It explores the relationship between queer theory, theology, and religious ethics, addressing how religious institutions approach people with diverse gender and sexual identities. Students will discuss ways to challenge heteronormative and binary perspectives and explore opportunities to create more inclusive environments within churches and academia. The course connects theological reflection with contemporary issues of human rights, equality, and social inclusion.
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Credits: 5 ECTS
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Course dates: 1 March – 23 April 2027
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Eligible students: Third-year bachelor’s students and master’s students (minimum 120 ECTS credits)
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Language requirements: English at B2 level or higher
Further information:
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted through the following link by 1 December 2026:
https://ugla.hi.is/courses/aurora
Please also notify Aurora mobility coordinator Martina Buráňová (martina.buranova@upol.cz) by email that you have applied for a course.
The application must include a transcript of records in English and a copy of your travel document.