Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal

Ecology + Sustainability

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

13 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

14 weeks

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Ecology + Sustainability program in Lisbon lasts a full semester and is designed for you to engage with the world's most pressing environmental challenges in a local context. You will enroll in a combination of sustainability- and discipline-focused CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU, to develop your understanding of the ecological, political, and social contexts of environmental sustainability in Lisbon. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities related to sustainability and the environment. Live and learn in Lisbon!

Check out our Ecology + Sustainability Courses

Unique Experiences 

Participate in a Biodiversity Survey

at the Marine Protected Area of Avencas Beach, gaining hands-on experience in conservation research

Visit the Iberian Wolf Conservation Center

to witness firsthand the critical work being done to rehabilitate wolves affected by human activities

Volunteer with a Local Conservation NGO 


to contribute to the restoration of a sand dune ecosystem and engage with the local community

Experience
  • Lisbon

Your Destination 

Lisbon is Portugal’s eco-conscious capital, celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and commitment to sustainability. From the Tagus River to the scenic hills and historic neighborhoods, nature and urban living blend seamlessly. With a mild climate, rich ecosystems, and innovative sustainability efforts, Lisbon offers an inspiring setting for students. Whether you are majoring in environmental science, sustainability, marine biology, business, liberal arts, or international studies, Lisbon is the perfect place to study abroad.

lisbon-students-factory-tour

Program Highlights 

  • Featured Courses: Choose from a set of theoretical and practical Ecology and Sustainability courses that explore today's pressing environmental issues.  
  • 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 activities and volunteer work on local farms, natural reserves, field stations, and more while applying real-life solutions to challenges in the fields of energy, waste management, and conservation.  
  • Academic Projects: Enroll in a for-credit internship, directed independent research project, or service-learning to connect with local leaders on environmental protection projects. 
group of students at dolphin sculpture

Excursions & Activities 

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Lisbon will open doors for you to explore Portugal’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.  

Samples of past excursions and activities:

  • Join marine biologists in the Sado estuary for a dolphin-watching expedition
  • Explore diverse ecosystems and historic sites during a kayaking adventure on the Tagus River
  • Learn to bake Portugal's famous pastel de nata in a cooking class that promotes the use of local ingredients and waste reduction

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

From CIEE

EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: LISBON

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN LISBON Some food experiences never fade and eating sardines at an outdoor café atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills is one of them. I’m not... keep reading

From CIEE

3 Lessons Learned from Studying Abroad

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Josephine White #1: Do the Homestay, Seriously. When I say do a homestay, I mean it with every fiber of my being. Study abroad isn’t just about traveling and... keep reading

From CIEE

Reconnecting with My Portuguese Roots

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Madison Dias The most meaningful experience I’ve had during this trip has been the redefining of my relationship with Portugal and my Portuguese heritage. I grew up two blocks... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Lisbon: Study on the campus of the Universidade Nova de Lisboa School of Social Sciences and Humanities (NOVA FCSH), CIEE’s partner institution, located near trendy cafés, shops, banks, a modest shopping mall, and two metro lines that access the rest of the city. CIEE Lisbon features several offices on campus, namely with academic advising and student life support services, and access to NOVA FCSH’s campus library, study spaces, cafeteria, and coffee shop.

NOVA School of Social Sciences – Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-FCSH): NOVA FCSH is one of the best social sciences schools in Portugal with courses raging from Anthropology, Art History, History, Media Studies, Political Sciences and Sociology (mostly taught in Portuguese). NOVA FCSH courses take place on the same campus as CIEE courses. 

NOVA School of Business – Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-SBE): NOVA SBE is a high-ranking Business School located in Carcavelos, with a commute time from the center of Lisbon of about 1 hour. NOVA SBE is AACSB and EQUIS credited.  

Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL): ISCTE-IUL offers courses in a wide range of disciplines in social sciences, and business. Its campus is located within a 15-minute commute of CIEE Lisbon. ISCTE-IUL Business School is AACSB and EQUIS credited and ranks very high among business schools in Portugal.  

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.  

Courses

Course Information

Featured Courses  

The Ecology + Sustainability program offers a rich curriculum that investigates the vital links between ecology, sustainability, and environmental policy. Students will explore diverse topics like energy solutions, ecosystem resilience, and the role of social justice in environmental action. With a focus on both theoretical and practical application, these courses provide students with the essential knowledge and multidisciplinary insights to confront the urgent environmental challenges facing our world today. 

CIEE  Courses (in-person)NOVA School of Business - Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-SBE) Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL) ASU Courses (online)  

Principles of Ecology 

Global Change and The Environment 

Global Environmental Policy 

Sustainable Tourism

Development Economics

Public Economics 

Environmental and Natural Resource Economics

Management Policies for Sustainability

Social Sciences in Humanitarian Action

Tourism & Urban Worlds 

Systems Thinking 

Sustainable Ecosystems 

Basic Energy Science

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.

Internships

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

Lisbon is a burgeoning tech hub, home to numerous startups and coworking spaces that foster creativity and collaboration. This city is ideal for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. Beyond work, the city’s beautiful weather, rich culture, and affordable living make it an attractive place to reside. 

A female intern picks crops from a field

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.

An intern works on a design in a workshop

Architecture and Construction

Develop hands-on technical skills and responsible building planning while working for global architecture firms abroad.

A female intern sits in front of a studio A/V board while recording

Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications

Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.

Female finance intern presenting to coworkers at a whiteboard in a conference room

Finance

Study global markets, financial systems, and cross-border investment strategies in international firms, banks, and companies.

A student intern sitting at a microscope in a lab

Health Science

Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.

Two female interns work on an engineering project

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

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
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

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 Spring 2026 13 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2026 14 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.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $15,206 **
Housing $4,250 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $19,950

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Housing Fee $1,950

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.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $980
International Airfare $1,100 ††
Local Transportation $120 †††
Books & Supplies $50
Personal expenses $205 ††††
Total Costs $2,455

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner). For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $300 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Student transportation card

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

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.

See Scholarships

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

Staff

Our Staff

Joana Almeida

Center Director

Joana has been working with CIEE Lisbon since 2011. She holds a B.A. in Art History, an M.A. in Social Sciences, and a Ph.D. in Historical Sociology.

Rodrigo Dias

Academic Manager

Rodrigo has been working for CIEE Lisbon since 2021. He holds a bachelor's degree in Asian Studies and a master's degree in Teaching Portuguese as a Foreign/Second Language. He has...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

3

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

4

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!

Request Info