Combat Corrosion in China

To participate in a Global Seminar, students must: 

• Be in good-standing in their faculty (as defined by home faculty) 

• In the year leading up to the Global Seminar, have full-time student status (as defined by home faculty) 

• Have completed 2nd year requirements before the start of the program (i.e. 3rd or 4th year standing) 

• Meet any program specific requirements listed below including pre-requisites before participating 

Program-specific requirements 

• Open to current 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year Science and Engineering students (Graduate students may also benefit based on their research focus)
• No background in Engineering is required, this course is a great fit for many Science disciplines

Academics 

Syllabus to be posted soon

UBC Okanagan Students

Science students = Upper Level Elective

Civil, Mechanical, & Manufacturing Engineering students @ UBCO = technical elective

Electrical Engineering students @ UBCO = alternative technical elective.

Computer Engineering program @ UBCO = does not fit with degree requirements.

Please work with an Engineering Advisor if you have any questions. UBC Okanagan Engineering Advising

UBC Vancouver students

The Course Syllabus will be linked above, please work with your Advisor to determine how this fits into your degree. UBC Vancouver Engineering Advising. 

ENGR 498 (3) Special Topics in Engineering: Corrosion and Corrosion Prevention Methods (3 credits)

This course is designed for 3rd and 4th year science and engineering students seeking to develop a comprehensive understanding of corrosion and corrosion control principles. It covers the fundamental mechanisms of corrosion, the different forms of corrosion, the various methods of corrosion prevention including but not limited to coatings, inhibitors, cathodic and anodic protections, and their practical application in the selection of construction materials and the protection of engineering systems. By the end of the course, students will gain valuable insights into the challenges posed by corrosion in different industries and the strategies employed to mitigate its effects, ensuring the longevity and reliability of engineering infrastructures such as pipelines, bridges, offshore facilities, etc.

General Timeline

Teaching Dates: May 10 – June 4, 2027

Arrival: May 8 or 9, 2027

Weeks one to four: 

This program will be located in Xi’an, the majestic capital of Shaanxi Province. It is a city steeped in history, having served as the capital of 13 dynasties over more than 3,000 years. Revered as ‘the birthplace of Chinese civilization,’ Xi’an was a vital stop along the ancient Silk Road, where cultures and cuisines converged, enriching the city with an unparalleled diversity that has only deepened with time. Amidst world-renowned historical treasures such as the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors and the ancient, towering City Wall, Xi’an pulses with a vibrant blend of culinary delights, from the delicate flavours of Cantonese dishes to the fiery allure of Sichuan spices. The city’s artisans, steeped in tradition, craft some of China’s finest products, adding to the charm.

Yet Xi’an is not simply a relic of the past. It stands proudly as one of China’s largest and most developed cities, where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly. The city offers every contemporary convenience, ensuring that travellers seeking luxury will find their desires met. With its rich heritage and cosmopolitan flair, Xi’an presents an unrivalled experience where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication. Here are some of the finest luxury hotels in Xi’an, ready to offer you a stay that blends history with indulgence.

To learn more about Xi’an – please watch this 4 minute video

Climate 

Early May: The weather is exceptionally comfortable. Highs hover around 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F), which is perfect for walking, biking, and heavy sightseeing. Late May: The climate transitions closer to summer. Temperatures frequently climb toward 30°C (86°F) and can occasionally spike into the mid-30s. The sun will feel stronger, and the air will become slightly more humid.

Transportation 

Transportation related to the academic and extra-curricular activities is provided.  Depending on how the cohort arrives, we can arrange a group pickup from the airport.

Housing 

The cohort will be accommodated in international housing, a ten-story building. Students will be sharing a double bedroom with a private bathroom. Each floor has a shared kitchen and laundry.

Extra activities

Students will have the opportunity to participate in many activities during the month in Xi’An such as:

Kung Fu training in China offers a deeply immersive experience rooted in centuries of tradition, discipline, and philosophy. Often held in dedicated martial arts schools or temples, such as the renowned Shaolin Temple, students train intensively under the guidance of skilled masters. The training emphasizes not only physical strength, flexibility, and technique, but also mental focus, respect, and inner balance. Whether for self-defense, personal development, or cultural appreciation, Kung Fu training in its country of origin provides a rare opportunity to engage with authentic Chinese martial arts in a profoundly meaningful way.

Chinese Language Lesson: Mandarin is the most widely spoken language in the world and the official language of China. Known for its tonal pronunciation and character-based writing system, Mandarin is a key to understanding Chinese culture, history, and communication. Learning Mandarin opens doors to engaging with over a billion native speakers and provides valuable insight into one of the world’s oldest and richest civilizations. Whether for travel, business, or cultural exchange, studying Mandarin offers both practical benefits and a deeper connection to the global community.

Site Seeing: Students will have the chance to explore some of China’s most iconic and unforgettable landmarks, including the majestic Great Goose Pagoda, the breathtaking peaks of Huashan Mountain, the vibrant West Gate food market, the culturally rich Muslim Street, and the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors. Each of these sites offers a truly unique and immersive experience that captures the spirit, history, and energy of China—making it an unforgettable journey for global travelers.

Cultural Amalgamation: UBC students will engage in meaningful collaboration with students from Chang’an University, both in the classroom and through hands-on activities beyond the academic setting. This immersive environment fosters mutual learning, cross-cultural dialogue, and the development of global perspectives. The cultural exchange embedded throughout the course is both rich and profound, offering students a unique opportunity to build lasting connections, deepen their intercultural understanding, and enhance their academic experience through real-world interaction.

Program Fees

The 2027 Program Fee is estimated to be $TBD and the final fee is dependent on the number of students in the program.

Every eligible student accepted into this program will receive a $1,000 Global Seminar Award. This will be distributed to students just prior to departure.

We encourage students with accessibility concerns to reach out early to the lead faculty program directors to discuss potential accommodations and determine whether the program is a good fit for their needs. 

Mobility and infrastructure  

China is a vibrant, highly developed country where active transportation, such as walking, cycling, and riding e-scooters, is seamlessly integrated into daily life. Furthermore, both China as a whole and the historic city of Xi’an in particular are recognized as being exceptionally safe and welcoming to international visitors.

The university campus we will be based at is beautifully expansive, offering a wonderful environment to explore. To make the most of your time there, we highly recommend getting around by bicycle or scooter. It is not only the most practical and efficient way to navigate the campus, but also a fun and immersive way to experience the local culture.

Physical activity   

The course includes moderate activity such as walking and extended time outdoors. Students should be prepared for active days in warm weather.

As part of the program, weekly Kung Fu lessons will be provided.

Access to the gym is also an option. Several indoor and outdoor sports facilities are available on campus, just a 2-minute walk away.

Other extracurricular activities

• Weekly Chinese language lessons
• Weekend leisure activities (Climbing, sightseeing, museum, food market…)
• Friday, June 4^th, end-of-program celebration

Dietary and personal needs  

The program includes a comprehensive daily meal plan, ensuring convenience, value, and culinary variety throughout your stay. Our host campus features an exceptional dining infrastructure, comprising five expansive canteens and over 100 distinct food vendors. This diverse culinary landscape is designed to cater to a wide array of tastes and dietary requirements, including:

1. Authentic Chinese Cuisine: A vast selection of regional dishes, with dedicated vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
2. Western Comfort Foods: Familiar, high-quality favourites such as gourmet burgers, steaks, and pasta.
3. Interactive Dining: Traditional hot pot experiences featuring fresh, premium ingredients cooked to order.
4. Cafés and Snack Bars: Multiple on-campus coffee shops, bakeries, and snack kiosks, perfect for mid-day study breaks and socializing.

Rest assured, navigating your dietary needs will be seamless, with plenty of safe, delicious, and culturally enriching options available every day.

All travel and program activities involve risk of harm to participants. Go Global and Seminar program leads take reasonable precautions to reduce risks. However, not all harms can be anticipated or prevented. While travelling on UBC programs, students have a responsibility for their own safety and the safety of the group. Thorough preparation, situational awareness, and safeguarding your valuables and health is advised. 

It is strongly advised to check your medical insurance for travel. If you have a health condition, we ask that you disclose and speak with the faculty lead so that they can assist you with planning health management while abroad. 

Some common issues for travellers include: 

• Illness and injuries (e.g. respiratory illnesses, flu, food poisoning, sprained ankles, etc.) 

• Fatigue and heat exhaustion

• Traffic accidents 

• Lost documents (passports, credit cards, etc.) 

Before Applying: 

• Get to know the places you will be travelling by using available resources like Global Affairs Canada travel reports. 

• Consider your own mental and physical health alongside what you know about the conditions during the program (e.g. how physical is the program? What are the living conditions? What can I do to prepare myself?) 

Before departure:   

• Participate in all pre-departure activities offered by Go Global and your program teaching team to learn about the program and ways to prevent and respond to incidents. 

• Ensure you have adequate travel medical insurance that will cover you in the location and for the duration of your trip. 

• Be aware of how to use your travel medical insurance, if you need it, and where to access medical care or other emergency assistance in the locations where you will be travelling.  

During the program:  

• If you don’t feel safe, say something! Let your program leads know how you feel, or about incidents that occur. Don’t hesitate to contact Go Global during your program. 

• Know your own needs: be aware of your own mental and physical health and your limits. Communicate with your program lead and group about making adjustments, as needed.  

Public health: COVID-19 and other diseases 

Students and faculty are required to comply with the entry requirements of the host country, regulations of transportation carriers, and any local public health orders. These rules might require vaccinations (e.g. for COVID-19, yellow fever, etc.) to enter the country or to participate in certain program activities. Some places may require masking, testing or isolation in various circumstances. It is your responsibility to research and comply with any requirements. 

COVID-19 and other infections can spread easily in a group setting. Most programs involve shared accommodations. Unless required by local public health authorities, isolation for those infected during the program may not be possible.

Review local requirements before applying and before departure. Check the Global Affairs Canada Advisory under Entry Requirements for your Global Seminar destination to learn more. Keep in mind that program conditions can vary and rules can change before or during your trip.