About the program

As tourism in northern Sweden and Sápmi continues to grow, there is an increasing demand for guides with the right skills and ethical grounding. In this post-secondary program, you will learn to lead guided experiences in Arctic environments – from hikes to northern lights nights – with respect for nature, Sámi rights and knowledge, local communities, and living cultures.

You will gain in-depth knowledge of ecology, Sámi societies and knowledge systems, climate impact, and safety, while also training in storytelling that avoids stereotyping, hospitality, business development, and field guiding.

Courses within the program

Ecology and Guidelines for Guiding in Arctic Natural Areas, including ethics for guiding in Indigenous territories – 5 weeks
Conservation and sustainable tourism
Ecology and ecosystems in the Arctic environment
Climate and climate impact
Sustainability certifications and guidelines

Hospitality in Sápmi/Arctic Sweden – communicating the uniqueness of the destination with accuracy, humility, and Sámi co-ownership – 3 weeks
Group dynamics, leadership, and handling challenging situations
Hospitality in Arctic Sweden – communicating the uniqueness of the destination.

Sápmi and Arctic Sweden: Sámi Culture, History, and Contemporary Society – 3 weeks
The region’s histories and cultures, including Sámi perspectives on colonisation, revitalisation, and contemporary life.
Ongoing social transformation, including land use, governance, and Sámi self-determination.
Local economy, Sámi livelihoods (e.g., reindeer herding, duodji, fishing, contemporary entrepreneurship), and the tourism industry.
City guiding as a complement to nature guiding, including Sámi presence, history, and contemporary cultural spaces.

Practical Guiding in the Arctic Environment – 6 weeks
Concrete activities:
Applying theoretical knowledge in practical contexts
Training in social skills, leadership, and group dynamics
Safety and risk management
Industry-specific English

Concept and Business Development – 2 weeks
Concept development and experience packaging
The relationship between costs and revenues in guiding operations

How it works

The program is conducted from 1 December 2025 to 10 April 2026, a period of 19 weeks, with an average of four hours of scheduled instruction per week. It comprises 95 YH credits (approx. 5 months) and is delivered through two on-site gatherings in Boden, northern Sweden, combined with distance learning online.The gatherings each last one week: in winter (January 26–30, 2026 – focus on activities in cold climates) and in early spring (March 23–27, 2026 – focus on the “fifth season”). Please note that if you do not live nearby, you should add one travel day before and after the on-site study weeks.

During these weeks you will get hands-on experience with activities in real Arctic conditions (…) and learn through experiences such as northern lights photography, snowmobile tours, ice fishing, meetings with Sámi guides, storytellers, and cultural practitioners (where participation is based on consent and fair collaboration, and study visits to high-end destinations such as the Tree Hotel).

The program consists of theoretical modules, independent work, and practical field sessions – where you will learn directly from experienced guides, entrepreneurs, Sámi knowledge holders, and local residents in Sápmi/Arctic Sweden. In addition to the scheduled class time, you should expect to spend at least an equivalent amount of time on self-study, field studies, and group work. The total number of hours required will vary depending on each participant’s prior knowledge, experience, and level of ambition in the program.

The program is delivered as distance learning, with two study weeks held on campus in Boden. During the distance weeks, classes are conducted online via webcam. All lessons are recorded and can be viewed afterwards.

The education is conducted in English, with guest lectures, study visits, and industry connections as an integral part.

Costs

Travel and accommodation are paid for by the student. You will stay at Boden Bed and Breakfast, in a shared double room for about SEK 2,000 per placement week. Breakfast is included, and there is a shared kitchen available for meal preparation. 

Application requirements

This program is designed for those who already have experience working with people – as an educator, leader, or guide – and want to take the step into a new professional role in a growing industry. Experience in taking responsibility for groups and an interest in developing in a new direction are highly valued.

After graduation

After completing the program, you will be ready to work as a guide in Arctic environments – as an employee, entrepreneur, or consultant. You will have the tools to create new experiences that strengthen local tourism, Sámi and local livelihoods, and sustainable development. And most importantly: you will become a vital link between visitors, nature, and the communities of the region—supporting respectful encounters and long-term stewardship.

Length: 95 YH credits (approx. 5 months)
Start date: Ongoing. Started December 1, 2025
Format: Two 2-hour online lectures per week, combined with two on-site gatherings (January 26–30 & March 23–27, 2026) in Boden/northern Sweden. Hours needed for self-studies and independent work will depend on the students previous knowledge.
Student Grants: CSN eligible for 100% studies
Language: English
Previous work experience required: Minimum 1 year of professional experience in guiding, education, leadership, or service.
Application deadline: The programme has already started.

International applicants
For applicants outside of the Nordics, the program is available at a rate of 35 000 SEK / 3450 €. Reach out to per@almostthere.se to learn more.