Sustainable Smart Cities
Unique Experiences
Walk the Eco-Valley (Plaine du Var)
a sustainable development project focused on eco-technology
Explore sustainable coastal design at Cap Ferrat
walk eco-friendly trails and see how smart landscaping preserves biodiversity while supporting tourism
Visit Cours Saleya Market
a daily market with fresh produce, flowers, and local flavors
Your Destination
Nice is France’s sustainable Riviera city, known for its climate innovation, green mobility, and smart coastal planning. As a leader in eco-tourism and urban resilience, Nice features solar-powered transit, car-free zones, and initiatives for zero waste and clean energy. Explore the Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, hilltop gardens, and local markets. Whether you’re studying environmental science, business, engineering, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Nice is the perfect place to study abroad.
Program Highlights
- Featured Courses: Choose from a set of related courses that explore how innovative cities utilize digital technologies and modern strategies to prepare for the future and impact the environment.
- Sustainability in Practice Workshop: Take part in an optional workshop to compare different models of sustainability in your host country and around the world. Topics may include business, public policy, technology, waste-management, and more.
- Immersive Experiences: Participate in networking events with local sustainability initiatives, activities that address how urban planning and technology can help lessen the impact on the environment, meaningful volunteer work with local organizations, and study tours to meet local changemakers and companies driving sustainability efforts.
- Academic Projects: Enroll in a for-credit internship, directed independent research project, or service-learning to develop integrated sustainable solutions that address economic, social, and environmental challenges.
Excursions & Activities
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Nice will open doors for you to explore France’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.
Samples of excursions and activities:
- Conduct fieldwork at Mediterranean beaches, castle ruins, and marine research stations
- Visit Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum and the The Lérins islands
- Enjoy coastal walks around Cap d’Antibes to enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Program Blogs
Paris vs. Nice: Where Should You Study Abroad?
Choosing between Paris vs. Nice for your study abroad adventure is a dream dilemma – do you want to live in France's iconic capital city or it’s sunny Mediterranean city... keep reading
What to Know Before Studying Abroad in the French Riviera
You’ve seen it on Pinterest boards and travel reels – the French Riviera’s sun-drenched beaches, pastel buildings, and sparkling blue waters. But what if you could actually live there? Nice... keep reading
5 Reasons to Study Abroad in Nice, France
Beach days. Fresh-baked croissants. A quick train to Italy. Sounds unreal, right? Studying abroad in Nice, France, is the ultimate combo of chill Mediterranean vibes and cultural depth. It’s where... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Nice offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to shared apartments, we will strive for your accommodation preferences to be met. All housing has convenient access to plenty of shopping, supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation.
Standard Housing: Includes a room in a homestay or a double room in a shared apartment or residence hall, located within a 45-minute commute of the city center.
- Homestays: Homestays provide you with an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in French family life and culture.
- Shared Apartments/Residence Halls: Shared apartments and residence halls offer a fully furnished kitchen, shared living spaces, shared bathrooms, on-site laundry, and Wi-Fi.
Select Housing: Includes a single room in a shared apartment or residence hall, located within a 30-minute commute of the city center. The space offers a fully furnished kitchen, shared living spaces, shared bathrooms, on-site laundry, and Wi-Fi.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program Dates and Fees.
Meals
- Apartments: Meals are not included.
- Residence Halls: Meals are not included.
- Homestays: Host families provide breakfast and dinner, and students are responsible for lunch.
Academics
CIEE Nice: Study in a vibrant Mediterranean city known for its stunning coastline, rich cultural heritage, and relaxed lifestyle. Experience immersive academics combined with local arts, cuisine, and opportunities to explore the French Riviera.
IPAG Business School: IPAG Business School's Nice campus is beautifully located between the sea and the mountains, offering an inspiring environment for more than 1,000 students from 40+ nationalities. Academically, it provides a range of programs with AACSB accreditation, with strong ties to the Sophia-Antipolis technology park and numerous partner companies. Founded in 1965 and expanded to Nice in 1989, IPAG is known for its research excellence, particularly in economics, and is ranked among the top French institutions in this field. The campus features modern facilities like amphitheaters, co-working spaces, and a sunny terrace, all within easy reach of Nice’s vibrant city center.
Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Course Information
Featured Courses
The Sustainable Smart Cities program offers a diverse range of courses that explore how urban development, policy, and sustainability intersect. Students will explore important topics such as sustainable business practices, green urban planning, global environmental challenges, and the future of food systems. Through an interdisciplinary approach, these courses equip students with the tools and insights needed to tackle pressing sustainability issues and create meaningful change in cities worldwide.
| CIEE Courses (in-person) | IPAG Business School | ASU Courses (online) |
Building Sustainable Cities Sustainable Development in the 21st Century Business & Sustainability Engineering, Sustainability, and Society | Sustainable Supply Chain Management Luxury: Innovation, Sustainable Development and Quality | Introduction to Sustainability Sustainable World Sustainable Ecosystem Equity, Justice and Sustainability Pathways to Sustainability |
Academic Projects
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
History, Philosophy, Religion
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Academic Projects
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
History, Philosophy, Religion
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
IPAG Business School
Please note that host institution courses are subject to change from term to term.
IPAG Business School Sample Courses:
THIRD-YEAR LEVEL COURSES OFFERED IN BOTH FALL AND SPRING TERMS (3 U.S. Semester Credits unless otherwise notes):
Courses Related to Sustainability:
- Sustainable Supply Chain Management
- Luxury: Innovation, Sustainable Development and Quality
Courses in General Management
- Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility
- International HR Management
- Business Strategy
- Financial Management
- Data Analysis for Business Management
Courses in Marketing
- Marketing Tourism
- Courses in Entrepreneurship
- Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility
- Strategic Marketing Planning
- Business Strategy
- Family Entrepreneurship
- Innovation & Lean Startup for Entrepreneurs
Other Courses
- French as a Foreign Language (1 credit)
- Geopolitics
COURSES OFFERED FALL TERM ONLY:
Second-Year Level Courses (1.5 U.S. Semester Credits unless otherwise noted):
- Financial Accounting
- Cross-cultural Management
- International Economics
- Market Research
- Human Resources Management
- International Trade
- Advanced Statistics
- Business IT Tools III (0.5 credits)
- Culture Courses
- Geopolitical Future
- Academic Presentations
- French as a Foreign Language (1 credit)
First-Year Level Courses (1.5 U.S. Semester Credits unless otherwise noted):
- Introduction to Organizations
- Financial Mathematics
- Introduction to Cross Cultural Communications
- Principles of Marketing
- Accounting Principles
- Introduction to Business Law
- Microeconomics
- Business IT Tools
- Academic Writing
COURSES OFFERED SPRING TERM ONLY:
Second-Year Level Courses (1.5 U.S. Semester Credits, unless otherwise noted):
- Financial Analysis
- International Business Environment
- International Negotiation
- Innovation and Digital Marketing
- Using Social Media in Business
- Research Methods II
- Introduction to Operations and Supply Chain
First-Year Level Courses (1.5 U.S. Semester Credits, unless otherwise noted):
- Introduction to Management
- Economic Conditions
- Introduction to Statistics
- Mix Marketing and Communication
- Comparative Contracts Law
- Research Methods I
- International Seminar (1 credit)
- Business IT Tools II (TOSA level 2)
- Introduction to Geopolitics
- French Culture & Civilization (2.5 credits)
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
The work scene in Nice is dynamic and growing, with strengths in tourism, hospitality, international trade, environmental sciences, and business. The city offers a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and professional opportunity, encouraging innovation and cross-cultural collaboration. In Nice, a relaxed coastal lifestyle complements a forward-thinking work environment, making it an inspiring place to build global connections.
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.
Business Management and Administration
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.
Hospitality and Tourism
Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.
Marketing, Sales and Service
Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Gain hands-on skills in sustainable technologies, research projects, and scientific studies in Costa Rica, Mexico, and more.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2026 17 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Spring 2027 18 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2027 17 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Iwona Ivanov
Center Director
Iwona brings extensive experience in higher education, having managed Career Services, Corporate Relations, and Alumni Relations across institutions in France and the United States. A certified coach, she has supported...
Get Started
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Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
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Contact CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!