Liverpool, England
Relatively close to Ireland, Scotland, and Wales and named a European Capital of Culture in 2008, Liverpool boasts a bustling downtown area and thriving arts scene second only to London’s, as well as quiet green suburban parks.
History
Founded in the thirteenth century, the city of Liverpool has long been one of England’s primary seaports, gateway to the British Empire, home to the Beatles, and port of registry to the Titanic.
Population
Approx. 494,814 in the city itself, with 2,241,000 in the wider metropolitan area
Climate
This area of England has warm summers with temperatures reaching up to 86 °F (30 °C). Winter is cold and wet, with temperature lows of around 36 °F (2 °C) and plenty of rain. In summer the sun rises and sets in about 17 hours, but winter days only experience about seven or eight hours of daylight.
Basic Information
Location
Program Type
Cost
Each student will take four courses in Liverpool:
Two courses taught by the Calvin program director:
STBR 312: Studies in British Culture (4 credits)
A topical introduction to political, historical, religious, artistic, and popular aspects of the culture of Great Britain. The course engages the culture through a combination of classroom and experiential learning, including speakers, excursions and tours. This course earns Global Regions and Cultures credit.
STBR 215: Environmental History: Great Britain and Beyond (4 credits)
An introduction to environmental history, this course is global in scope but provides specific case studies and comparisons from England, Europe, and North America. Key topics include the methods of environmental history, pre-human natural history, the relationship between hunter-gatherers and the environment, the development of agriculture, the impact of European colonization globally, the consequences of the industrial revolution and urbanization, the emergence of environmental movements, changing cultural patterns in conceptualizing nature and humanity’s place in it, and the relationship between religious traditions, particularly Christianity, and environmental issues. The course will include guest lectures and excursions to notable British landmarks. This course earns Humanities: History core credit and Environmental Sustainability core credit (pending).
Plus two courses from Liverpool Hope University, which offers a broad selection of classes in the arts, sciences, and humanities.
Grades
The grades from the course(s) taught by the Calvin instructor will factor into your GPA.
You will stay in your own dorm for the semester.
$26,750 + round-trip airfare (estimate)
The final program cost is based on many factors and is not known exactly until the number of students in the group has been identified. The price for the Britain semester will include:
- Tuition, room and board; students will receive a weekly stipend to cover all meals while in the program
- Administrative fee
- Program excursions
Additional expenses not included in the program fee: books, insurance (required), passport, personal spending money and personal travel.
This price may change due to fluctuations in the rate of the dollar against the British pound.
You must be of sophomore status and have 2.5 GPA or higher.
If you're interested in participating in this off-campus program, click the button below for a checklist that will walk you through the application process. The application deadline for Spring 2026 is September 26, 2025.