WINTER 2026 Applications are Open! Apply here by October 5th, 2025.
The Course: POL373 • Introduction to Politics of the Middle East and North Africa
This course focuses on the domestic politics of the countries of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and asks what has changed politically since the 2011 Arab Uprisings. Authoritarianism appears to be on the rise - is this true and if so, is post-2011 authoritarianism the same as pre-2011 authoritarianism? Does authoritarianism today look the same as it did prior to the Arab Springs? In addressing these questions, students also will examine: state-building, nationalism and Islamism. Students also will question some of the prevailing assumptions about the MENA, including those regarding gender, and attempt to debunk some of these assumptions and stereotypes.
The course is divided into three parts. Part One looks at the creation of states in the region and the social and political forces that arose during this timer period and that, in many cases, continue until today. Part Two examines the dominant theories regarding authoritarian resilience and durability prior to 2011. Part Three looks at the authoritarian regimes in the region and asks what has changed since 2011.
Learn more about the course here. Please note you must be registered in this course to participate in this international experience.
Make sure to check the corresponding academic calendar and ACORN for prerequisites and enrollment requirements. Click here.
The Trip: Morocco Winter Reading Week
Approximate Travel Dates: Winter reading week Saturday February 14 - Sunday February 22, 2026. (Plus or minus two days before and after - exact dates and times will be communicated to you at the pre-departure session).
Join fellow classmates and Professor Janine Clark during Winter Reading Week for an immersive experience in Morocco, exploring the intersection of history, politics, and cultural heritage. Through the Morocco: Politics, Society, and Culture program, you’ll engage with experts from local institutions such as the University of Rabat, and have the opportunity to meet with pro-democracy activists and reformist Members of Parliament to gain a deeper understanding of Morocco’s political landscape.
As you travel through cities like Rabat, Fez, and Marrakesh, you’ll explore Morocco’s rich history and current social issues, from the role of the monarchy in the war of independence to the efforts of activists advocating for women’s and youth rights. This program offers a unique opportunity to study Morocco’s political dynamics while immersing yourself in one of the world’s most culturally and historically significant regions.
Why Participate?
- Explore Morocco’s rich history, culture, and political landscape.
- Understand the intersection of social movements and activism.
- Establish connections with fellow students and your professor;
- Add international travel experience to your resume.
Sample Itinerary*
*The itinerary is subject to change based on the availability and requirements of the program.
Accommodation: Hotels and hostels
Transportation: Private Shuttles, Taxis, Public Buses, and Tour Buses
Meals: Hotel and Local Restaurants
The itinerary for UTM abroad students begins with a departure from Toronto Pearson International Airport, where upon landing in Morocco and a brief respite at the first accommodation, there might be a chance for a guided tour of the Hassan II Mosque, time permitting. The group then travels to Rabat, where students will have the opportunity to explore the city’s historical sites and learn about the Moroccan monarchy through a lecture, possibly from a local professor. A group dinner will take place in the Medina, setting expectations for the trip ahead.
In Rabat, students will meet with reformist Members of Parliament or engage with a local academic expert on political reforms. The evening may include a meeting with pro-democracy activists to discuss current social issues in Morocco. The group will then move on to Fez, where they will enjoy a guided tour focusing on the religious and cultural significance of the city, followed by free time to explore.
A free day in Fez will offer opportunities to visit the souks and historical sites, followed by a pottery workshop where students will learn about traditional Moroccan arts. Afterward, the group will head to Marrakesh, where a guided tour of the Medina will provide insight into the city's historical role in trade, with free time for exploration.
The final days in Marrakesh will include additional free time to discover its many sites and museums, with an evening tour of the Old City followed by a group dinner. On the final day, a discussion on integrating Berber communities might be held, providing a deeper understanding of Moroccan society and its diverse cultures.
Itinerary possibilities may also include a visit to a major mosque in Casablanca, a day trip to Meknes visiting a palace, a visit to Volubilis to see Roman mosaics or a lunch or overnight stay in Essaouria.
Payments
Estimated cost of International Component: CAD $4300-4600. (Final Installments will be determined based on the final trip cost).
What is Included: Flights, transportation, accommodation, meals, in-country activities associated with the course, and trip-cancellation insurance. Funding Available!
What is NOT Included: Course fees, fees associated with supplemental travel insurance, additional optional tours/activities while abroad, visa applications, medical exams, vaccinations, on-the-ground medical expenses, and any other additional costs.
Funding
Bursaries will be awarded based on demonstrated financial need (not linked to OSAP) as shown in your funding request in your UTM Abroad application. Read more about funding here!
If you have applied for a bursary, you will hear back about your bursary application at the same time as your trip application. Once you hear back, you will have about one week to decide whether to participate in the trip based on the bursary awarded. Please review the bursary policies here, and cancellation policies here.
Payment Schedule
| Payment | Amount | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Installment | $250.00 | With Application |
| 2nd Installment | $950.00 | TBD |
| 3rd Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 4th Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 5th Installment | $950.00 | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
| 6th Installment | $250-550* | Refer to dates in acceptance email |
*Final Installment will be determined based on the final trip cost. Each installment is due approximately every two weeks (biweekly)- Refer to exact dates in your acceptance email.
Testimonials
- See what your peers say here.
Need To Know
- The cost and itinerary are subject to change. The information on this page is for general reference and is subject to change. Specific and up-to-date details regarding itineraries, the final cost, and additional program requirements will be communicated through email from at the pre-departure sessions. Please refer to those communications for the most accurate and up-to-date information. If you have any questions or need clarification, we encourage you to contact UTM Abroad. We look forward to your application and are here to support you on this exciting journey!
- For the full list of Terms and Conditions, please click here.
- Applicants must submit an application for admission into the course to their respective departments and will be required to abide by the corresponding UTM Abroad application requirements and deadlines to participate in the international experience.
- Fees must be paid in full by the required deadlines.
- To prepare for the trip, students attending will participate in the mandatory pre-departure sessions which occur in person on campus.
Questions?
Book a Global Learning Advising appointment through CLNx, email us at utmabroad@utoronto.ca.