International Field Study

The Singapore skyline.

Join the First-Ever FCI Field Study in Singapore | May 10-19, 2025! 

This May, the Future Cities Institute is offering an exciting international field study, offering a unique opportunity to explore how futures thinking is shaping urban resilience, sustainability, and innovation in Singapore. 

Only 5 spots are available for non-UW students! Don’t miss this chance to explore the future of cities—sign up today! 

Why Singapore? 

As a global leader in strategic foresight and using data and technology to facilitate urban life, Singapore integrates future-ready strategies at all levels of government. This field study will provide firsthand insights into how cities can prepare for climate challenges, manage limited resources, harness technology, and thrive in a global economy. 

What You’ll Experience 

Over six days, participants will engage in site visits, expert discussions, and immersive experiences centered around key urban challenges. The itinerary is designed around a series of thought-provoking questions, encouraging participants to draw lessons and comparisons to Canada and other global cities. 

We begin our trip with a short stopover visit (8 hrs) to the heart of Amsterdam to consider a rapid perspective on a city that has adopted circular economy principles as a comparison to Singapore. 

Key Themes & Highlights 

  • Building Climate Resilience 
    • Exploring climate adaptation initiatives, green building strategies, and energy management in urban environments in the face of increased climate precarity. 
  • Sustainable Resource Management 
    • Discussions on water conservation, land-use planning, and innovative approaches to food production and transportation in a resource constrained environment. 
  • Technology & Innovation in City Design 
    • Visits to institutions and sites showcasing the intersection of technology, AI, and design in shaping future cities. 
  • Multiculturalism & Inclusive Urban Living 
    • Engaging with experts on urban redevelopment, cultural heritage, and inclusive housing strategies. 
  • Global Competitiveness & Urban Identity 
    • Examining how urban design, infrastructure, and economic development contribute to a city's global standing.


 

Singapore Trees

Registration Details for UW Graduate Students

  • Registration Opens: Now open! 

  • Registration Deadline: April 4, 2025 

How to Register: 

  1. Complete the Course Drop/Add form. 

  1. Send the completed form to c3subramaniam@uwaterloo.ca 

Note: This course does not follow the standard Spring term deadline. 

Registration Details for Non-UW Graduate Students

  • Registration Opens: Now open! 

  • Registration Deadline: April 4, 2025

Payment Required to Confirm Participation: 
University of Waterloo Shopify Payment Link 

Contact regarding non-UW registration and payment: tyler.batchelor@uwaterloo.ca  

It is the responsibility of every traveller to ensure they have the best travel insurance for themselves and to understand the terms of the policy. The travel insurance should include health, life and disability coverage that will help travellers avoid the cost of hospitalization or medical treatment outside Canada. 

Non-UW students must complete a traveler waiver and submit the completed form to the Safety Abroad Office at safetyabroad@uwaterloo.ca, with a CC to the Administrator of Graduate Studies at c3subramaniam@uwaterloo.ca. 

Who Can Apply? 

Graduate students and working professionals.

Spots Available 

Only 5 spots are available for non-UW graduate students! 

Cost 

Total cost for UW students: CA$250 + Tuition 

Total cost for Non-UW students: CA$2000

In addition, participants are responsible for their own flight tickets and accommodations. 

Immigration Requirements 

Traveling to Singapore? Here’s what you need to know: 

  • No visa required for Canadian passport holders (minimum 6-month passport validity). 

  • You must submit the SG Arrival Card within three (3) days (including the day of arrival) before entering Singapore. Learn more here: submit the SG Arrival Card

More Information

For questions or more details about the field trip itinerary, contact h3kerr@uwaterloo.ca  

For questions or more details about payment and registration (UW students), contact c3subramaniam@uwaterloo.ca  

For questions or more details about payment and registration (non-UW students), contact tyler.batchelor@uwaterloo.ca