Concordia Nebraska to present “Discovering Iceland” Studia Vitae course

In March 2027, Concordia University, Nebraska will present a six-week Discovering Iceland informational course designed for anyone interested in learning more about the culture, geography and natural environment of Iceland.  

Discovering Iceland – presented through Concordia Nebraska’s Studia Vitae lifelong learning program – will take place Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Central Time March 30 through May 4. Each session focuses on a different theme allowing participants to develop a deeper understanding of Iceland. 

Concordia University, Nebraska will join with Concordia University Chicago in a shared travel experience to Iceland July 14-24, 2027, centered on the theme “One Journey — Stronger Together.” Alumni and friends from both campuses will explore Iceland’s stunning natural beauty while enjoying the comfort and hospitality of a world-class cruise experience. The course was designed for those enjoying this travel opportunity, but it is open to anyone interested in learning more about majestic Iceland. 

“I’m excited to learn more about Iceland before I travel there—not just to prepare me to see its breathtaking landscapes, but to better understand its people and culture," said Concordia Nebraska Senior Director of Outreach, Relations and Engagement Jen Furr. "I hope that learning beforehand will help me experience Iceland with a more curious mind and a deeper appreciation for the journey and experience.” 

“I’m excited to learn more about Iceland before I travel there—not just to prepare me to see its breathtaking landscapes, but to better understand its people and culture."

The course will be moderated by Concordia Nebraska Professor of Geography and Chair of the Department of History, Geography, Intercultural Studies and Modern Languages Dr. Joel Helmer ‘92. Helmer teaches a variety of geography and environmental science courses and regularly leads international travel courses to destinations such as Peru, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea and Vietnam.   

Helmer has a Ph.D. in environmental science from Oklahoma State University, a master’s degree in geography from the University of Akron and a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Concordia University, Nebraska. His teaching includes courses such as GPS and Drone Technology, World Regional Geography, Introduction to Human Geography and Introduction to Geographic Information Systems. Helmer and his wife, Holly, who serves as catalog librarian at Concordia, have three children, all of whom are Concordia alumni: Will ’20, Harrison ’21 and Hannah ’25. 

Concordia Nebraska’s Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are short, non-credit courses thoughtfully curated for Christians who want meaningful growth without the commitment, workload or cost of a full credit-bearing course or graduate class. The moderately-priced courses offer practical insights and spiritual encouragement in an easily obtainable format while supporting both personal growth and benefiting organizations that the participant serves.  

Each CEU course is delivered in six one-hour sessions and is $150. Discounts are available for program participants who are members of preferred partner organizations. The short, focused sessions are available as scheduled webinars that will also be recorded for future viewing. Enrollment is flexible and open to anyone with no prerequisites required and no commitment needed to take additional classes.  

For more information about Studia Vitae, please visit cune.edu/ceu.   

For more information about preferred partnerships, please visit cune.edu/partners.