Ecology + Sustainability
AACSB Accredited
Unique Experiences
Go dolphin watching
to spot the resident population of bottlenose dolphins in the Sado estuary
Visit the Iberian wolf conservation center
to witness firsthand the critical work being done to rehabilitate wolves affected by human activities
Connect with a local sustainability NGO
to gain insights into conservation best practices and engage with the local community
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.
Program Highlights
- Featured Courses: Choose from ecology, environmental science, or science-related sustainability courses and academic projects that explore pressing environmental challenges.
- 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.
- Community Impact Initiative: Get involved with local organizations through service opportunities that address real community needs while building cross-cultural connections and hands-on experience.
- Academic Projects: Enroll in a for-credit internship, directed independent research project, or community engagement project to connect with local leaders on environmental protection projects.
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 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 are 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
EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: LISBON
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
3 Lessons Learned from Studying Abroad
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
Reconnecting with My Portuguese Roots
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 & Meals
Housing
CIEE Lisbon offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to residence halls, we will try our best to meet your accommodation preferences. Additionally, all housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, cafés, and eateries.
Standard Housing: Includes a single room at a homestay or a single room with private bathroom at a student residence hall, both located within 50 minutes by public transportation from CIEE Lisbon.
- Homestays offer socially active hosts and a cultural resource who allow for a lot of student independence, no curfew, kitchen access for food storage, a living room, Wi-Fi, weekly laundry, and a bathroom shared with the host. Hosts provide breakfast and dinner.
- Student Dorms are modern, offer Wi-Fi access, and typically have kitchens, study rooms, gyms, laundry facilities and other common areas shared with other students.
Select Housing: Includes a single room with private bathroom at a student residence hall located within 30 minutes by public transportation from CIEE Lisbon or a double shared room at a residence hall located within 15 minutes from CIEE Lisbon. Select housing requires an additional fee.
- Student Dorms are modern, offer Wi-Fi access and typically have kitchens, study rooms, gyms, laundry facilities and other common areas shared with other students.
Select Plus Housing: Includes a single room with kitchenette and en-suite bathroom at a residence hall located within 15 minutes from CIEE Lisbon. Select plus housing requires an additional fee.
- Student Dorms are modern, offer Wi-Fi access and typically have kitchens, study rooms, gyms, laundry facilities and other common areas shared with other students.
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
- Homestay: Breakfasts and dinners are provided seven days a week. Dietary needs may be accommodated.
- Residence Hall: Meals are not included.
All students have access to the subsidized cafeteria on campus. All housing options provide internet access.
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, with a growing list of courses taught in English). NOVA FCSH courses take place on the same campus as CIEE courses. The academic semester at NOVA-FCSH is longer than 90 days and students enrolled in courses at this institution are required to obtain a student visa.
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. The academic semester at NOVA-SBE is longer than 90 days and students enrolled in courses at this institution are required to obtain a student visa.
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 IBS is a high-ranking AACSB and EQUIS credited business school in Portugal. The academic semester at ISCTE-IUL is longer than 90 days and students enrolled in courses at this institution are required to obtain a student visa.
ISEG - Lisbon School of Economics and Management: ISEG offers a dynamic academic environment in Lisbon, focusing on economics, finance, and management. The institution provides English-taught programs, fostering international perspectives and practical skills to prepare students for a competitive global job market, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and, in some cases, sustainable development. ISEG has been awarded the Triple Crown of Accreditations (Equis, AACSB, AMBA). The academic semester at ISEG is longer than 90 days and students enrolled in courses at this institution are required to obtain a student visa.
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 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. Please note the courses listed below are subject to change, as well as course capacity and availability determined by the host institutions .
| 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 (Please note that actual course offering will vary from term to term) | 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 |
Course Notes:
NOVA FCSH: Students may take up to 4 courses. Enrollment in Portuguese-taught courses depends on the student’s academic background and Portuguese language level and requires approval from CIEE and NOVA FCSH. Some courses may be held at a secondary campus, approximately a 20-minute walk or free shuttle ride from the main campus.
NOVA SBE: Students may take up to 2 courses. Students should consider a 75-minute commute when planning their course schedule.
ISCTE-IUL: Students may take up to 2 courses. Students should consider a 20-minute commute when planning their course schedule.
ISEG: Students may take up to 2 courses. Students should consider a 30-minute commute when planning their course schedule.
Commute times calculated from the CIEE Lisbon Study Center.
Please note: Final exams for some host institution courses may take place after the advertised CIEE program end date. Students enrolled in these courses may be required to remain onsite until all academic requirements, including final exams, have been completed. Exam schedules are determined by the host institution and may not be confirmed until after arrival. Students should plan their travel accordingly and avoid making non-refundable travel arrangements before exam dates are finalized. Housing is guaranteed through the student's exam date (December for fall; May or early June for spring). Host institution courses follow continuous assessment and typically end later than CIEE courses.
Academic Projects
Biological and Physical Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Agriculture
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
Academic Projects
Biological and Physical Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Agriculture
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
Academic Projects
Biological and Physical Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Agriculture
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Psychology
Course availability varies by semester, and registration is finalized before arrival.
Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL)
ISCTE-IUL courses are primarily taught in English and are typically worth 3 U.S. semester credits each.
The courses below are examples of those recommended for study abroad students:
- Corporate Entrepreneurship
- Management in International Organizations
- Comparative International Management
- Integrated Project Management
- Operational Marketing
- Integrated Operations Management
- Company Law
- International Marketing
NOVA School of Business – Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-SBE)
NOVA SBE courses are primarily taught in English and are typically worth 3.5 U.S. semester credits each. Courses may begin before CIEE classes.
The courses below are examples of those recommended for study abroad students:
- Development Economics
- Industrial Organization
- Public Economics
- International Macroeconomics
- Organizational Behavior
- Strategy
- Linear Algebra with Programming
- European Law
NOVA School of Social Sciences – Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-FCSH)
NOVA FCSH offers courses across 14 social science departments. Courses are primarily taught in Portuguese and typically worth 3 U.S. semester credits each.
The courses below are examples of those historically available to CIEE students. Visit the NOVA FCSH website for additional information about departments and course offerings:
- Governance and Public Policies
- Development Theories and Politics
- Human Geography
- Theory of Communication
- Modern Philosophy
- History of Colonial Brazil
- Art History: 15th to 18th Centuries
- History of Cinema
- International Law
Lisbon School of Economics and Management (ISEG)
ISEG courses are taught in English and are typically worth 3 U.S. semester credits each.
The courses below are examples of those recommended for study abroad students:
- Corporate Finance
- Topics in Development Economics
- Money and Banking
- Management of Innovation
- Urban Economics
- Environmental Sustainability for Business
- Management Accounting
- Operational Marketing
- Data Analysis for Economics and Business
- Sustainable Finance
- Global Economic History of Portugal
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
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
Browse the range of internship opportunities available and find the experience that aligns with your academic and career goals 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.
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.
Business Management and Administration
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics.
Consumer Goods and Retail
Explore consumer behaviors, business strategies, international retail trends, and more in the global commerce marketplace.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around the globe.
Information Technology
Explore diverse tech environments, cutting-edge innovation, and emerging technologies in global cities.
Marketing, Sales and Service
Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.
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) Travel Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Scholars Grants
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 Spring 2027 13 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $19,950 |
| Program Fall 2027 12 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $19,950 | |
| Program Spring 2028 13 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2026 13 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $19,950 |
*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 | $500 * |
| Educational Costs | $14,706 ** |
| Housing | $4,550 *** |
| 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 |
| Select Plus Housing Fee | $2,925 |
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.
| Meals not included in program fee | $1,250 † |
| International Airfare | $1,100 †† |
| Local Transportation | $120 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $50 |
| Visa Fees | $325 †††† |
| Potential travel to consulate for visa | $500 ††††† |
| Personal expenses | $994 †††††† |
| Total Costs | $4,339 |
*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.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays and the additional optional cost for dining out once per week ($375). Families provide 2 meals (breakfast and dinner) and students purchase lunch (there isn’t usually access to a kitchen). For students in dorms, 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
††††Visa required only for students enrolled in Host University Courses. Visa is not required for students enrolled in CIEE Courses Only.
†††††Visa required only for students enrolled in Host University Courses. Visa is not required for students enrolled in CIEE Courses Only.
††††††Personal expenses may include but are not limited to the following: taxis, social activities and entertainment, toiletries, cell phone. Does not include personal travel.
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 | $500 * |
| Educational Costs | $14,706 ** |
| Housing | $4,550 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $19,950 |
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.
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 | $1,200 † |
| International Airfare | $1,100 †† |
| Local Transportation | $120 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $50 |
| Visa Fees | $325 †††† |
| Potential travel to consulate for visa | $500 ††††† |
| Personal expenses | $990 †††††† |
| Total Costs | $4,285 |
*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.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day and the optional estimated cost for dining out once per week ($360). For students in apartments/residence halls, 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
††††Visa required only for students enrolled in Host University Courses. Visa is not required for students enrolled in CIEE Courses Only.
†††††Visa required only for students enrolled in Host University Courses. Visa is not required for students enrolled in CIEE Courses Only.
††††††Personal expenses may include but are not limited to the following: taxis, social activities and entertainment, toiletries, cell phone. Does not include personal travel.
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.
| 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 |
| Select Plus Housing Fee | $2,925 |
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.
| Meals not included in program fee | $1,050 † |
| International Airfare | $1,100 †† |
| Local Transportation | $120 ††† |
| Books & Supplies | $50 |
| Visa Fees | $325 †††† |
| Potential travel to consulate for visa | $500 ††††† |
| Personal expenses | $212 †††††† |
| Total Costs | $3,357 |
*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
††††Visa required only for students enrolled in Host University Courses. Visa is not required for students enrolled in CIEE Courses Only.
†††††Visa required only for students enrolled in Host University Courses. Visa is not required for students enrolled in CIEE Courses Only.
††††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
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
Joana Almeida
Center Director
Joana holds a Ph.D. in Historical Sociology from the University of Lisbon. She has been working at CIEE Lisbon since 2011, first as a faculty member, then as the Academic Director of the center. Having studied and worked abroad herself, she is passionate about international education.
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 dedicated his career to international education and is very passionate about it.
Ana Rita Ribeiro
Senior Program Manager
Ana Rita has been collaborating with CIEE since 2021. She holds a bachelor's degree in biology and a master’s degree in biomedical sciences.
Get Started
1
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!
