Singapore
Singapore, Singapore

Sustainable Smart Cities

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

15 weeks

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

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Overview

Your Sustainable Smart Cites program in Singapore lasts a full semester and provides an in-depth examination of how this city-state is preparing for the future through innovative design solutions. You will enroll in at least one sustainability course that explores how urban planning, technology, and public policy contribute to sustainability in Singapore while also enrolling in your choice of business, communications, STEM, language, and other courses. This program offers a wide range of CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with cross-disciplinary cultural and extracurricular activities related to sustainability. Live and learn in Singapore!

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Singapore. 

Explore our sustainable smart cities courses

Unique Experiences

EXPLORE JURONG INNOVATION DISTRICT

TO SEE SINGAPORE’S FIRST SMART INDUSTRIAL HUB, WHERE ADVANCED MANUFACTURING, URBAN PLANNING, AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY SHAPE THE CITIES OF TOMORROW

DISCOVER FUSIONOPOLIS

A CUTTING-EDGE RESEARCH AND TECH HUB WHERE SMART MOBILITY, AI, AND URBAN SUSTAINABILITY DRIVE THE FUTURE OF CITY LIVING

VISIT THE URA CENTER

TO UNLOCK SINGAPORE’S URBAN PLANNING STRATEGIES AND SEE HOW LAND USE, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND INNOVATION FUTURE-PROOF THE CITY

Experience
  • night view aerial singapore

Your Destination

Singapore is a sustainable smart city renowned for its cutting-edge green technology, efficient public transport, and commitment to urban sustainability. The city integrates smart solutions, eco-friendly infrastructure, and renewable energy to create a harmonious urban environment. Students can explore iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving innovative ecosystem. Whether you are studying environmental science, business, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Singapore offers an inspiring and forward-thinking study abroad experience. 

singapore swing park

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.  
singapore business district riverfront

Excursions & Activities

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

Samples of excursions and activities: 

  • Embark on the Treetop Walk adventure, 164 feet above the forest floor, and learn about the conservation efforts of the National Parks Board 
  • Learn about food sustainability the Singapore way by visiting vertical farms which use hydroponics and aeroponics to grow vegetables and herbs in controlled environments 
  • Discover the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre Singapore where you will learn about futuristic vehicles from South Korea and vertical farming  

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

From CIEE

Study Abroad Singapore: The Ultimate Guide

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

If you’re looking for an adventure in a lively, busy city packed with incredible natural landscapes, a unique modern culture, and amazing food, consider Singapore . Read on as we... keep reading

From CIEE

24 Hours in Singapore: A Global Intern's Guide to an Island City-State in Asia

By Global Internships at CIEE

When you are a Global Intern in Singapore, the possibilities are endless. From beautiful landscapes and lush green spaces by the water, historic landmarks, and fresh seafood galore, there is... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Singapore: Conveniently located in the southwestern part of the city, CIEE Singapore boasts three classrooms, and a meeting room used for studying, academic advising, and student life support. Students will find several restaurants, a supermarket, and a mall near CIEE Singapore. 

James Cook University (JCU): The Singapore campus of James Cook University is fully owned by James Cook University Australia, which is ranked in the top 2% of universities in the world. James Cook University Australia established its Singapore campus in 2003 as part of its internationalization efforts. JCU Singapore offers a suite of university level programs covering the areas of business, information technology, psychology, guidance and counselling, science, commerce, accounting, aquaculture, environmental science, games design, tourism, and hospitality.   

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.  

GPA

2.8

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All Singapore Sustainable Smart Cities students enroll in 4 to 6 courses for a total of 12-18 credits per semester. At least one course in the area of sustainability is required. Students select from:  

  • CIEE courses 
  • Exactly 3 courses at JCU (9 U.S. Credits)  
  • Up to two ASU online courses (max 8 total credits)  
  • In the Fall term, students will be limited to ASU session B 

Program Credit

Total Credit: 12-18 (15-16 recommended) U.S. semester credits/18-27 quarter credits.    

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours  
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours (15 seminar hours, 100-120 internship placement hours)  
  • CIEE Directed Independent Research: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours (15 contact hours, 100-120 research hours)  
  • CIEE Service-Learning Project: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 seminar hours (15 seminar hours, 90 service hours)  
  • James Cook University Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 130-135 notional hours 
  • ASU Online Courses: Typically, 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours    

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

CIEE courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student engagement. Similar to classes at U.S. institutions, students should expect to spend an average of two hours of preparation and study for each hour in CIEE classes.   

CIEE courses typically run from Monday through Thursday, providing students with a concentrated schedule that allows for intensive study and exploration. This condensed format encourages students to fully engage with the material and make the most of their time. Attendance is mandatory for CIEE courses. 

James Cook University (JCU): JCU places strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and encourages students to tackle real-world challenges through research, projects, and case studies. In line with Singapore’s position as a hub for innovation and technology, JCU Singapore’s programs – especially in environmental science, business, technology, and data science – are closely aligned with the city’s focus on sustainability, smart city solutions, and digital transformation. Students are encouraged to think beyond textbooks and apply their knowledge in practical, meaningful ways – whether through industry placements, community projects, or participation in international conferences. 

ASU Courses: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online.  

Class Format

CIEE classes are for CIEE students only. Classes are small, typically with up to 15 students per class, and emphasize communication and work in small groups. Instruction is supported and augmented online with our learning management system, Canvas.  

James Cook University (JCU) Classes have an academic environment that emphasizes experiential learning, student agency, and technology-enhanced learning. JCU's digital learning environment, which includes a learning management system, Blackboard Learn Ultra, and other tools. Academics use LearnJCU to share content with students, and students use it to access subject information. 

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5-weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.  

Grading

The U.S. grading scale of A-F is used. In CIEE courses, students are graded on the basis of attendance, class engagement, homework, project work, presentations, and mid-term and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi.  

James Cook University (JCU) follows a grading system of High Distinction [HD], Distinction [D], Credit [C], Pass [P], and Unsatisfactory [U]. Just as with CIEE courses, final grades for local institution courses are a compound of components of different nature, such as attendance, class participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Primary assessments (assessments with more weight) are usually two or three partial written exams. CIEE reports final grades for host institution courses using recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, following a predetermined grade conversion scale.

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

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)James Cook University (JCU) ASU Courses (online) 

Building Sustainable Cities 

Sustainable Development in the 21st Century 

Business & Sustainability 

Engineering, Sustainability & Society 

Sustainable Tourism 

Environmental Processes and Global Change

Introduction to Biodiversity

Human Geography

Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Management

Network Forensics and Data Communications

Introduction to Sustainability

Sustainable World 

Sustainable Energy Technology and Systems

Pathways to Sustainability 

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

History, Philosophy, Religion

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Engineering and Engineering Technologies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Psychology

Course
Language
Semester Credit

 The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of course offerings through our partner university and is subject to change. Some courses are offered once a year. Please see below for some examples of courses:  

James Cook University

Sample sustainability course list:  

CP3416 - Behavioral Cybersecurity- A study on human behavior and the cybersecurity environment. 

BX3023 - Economic Growth and Sustainable Development- The course explores the drivers of economic growth and economic growth over time and across countries. 

EV1011 - Introduction to Sustainability- An exploration of the ecological, social, and economic challenges facing humanity, viewed through the lens of history, philosophy, ethics, and political developments that have influenced modern understandings of sustainability. 

BA1002 - Our Space: Networks, Narrative and the Making of Place- A study on concepts of space, place, power and narratives. concepts of space, place, power and narratives. 

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

 

Program Options
Program Options

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

Singapore's work scene is highly competitive and fast-paced, prioritizing efficiency and productivity. The city blends traditional values with modern approaches, creating a dynamic work environment where innovation and discipline drive success across diverse industries. 

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.

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.

Business Management and Administration Internships

Business Management and Administration

Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.

An intern watches a clothing designer work on a garmet

Consumer Goods and Retail

Explore consumer behaviors, business strategies, international retail trends, and more in the global commerce marketplace.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

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:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI 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 15 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 and MSI 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

Marc Teng

Center Director

Marc has over 15 years of experience in the education and travel sectors. He holds an MBA and a postgraduate diploma in education.

Djulianti Then

Student Life Coordinator  

Ms. Djulianti Then serves as a central figure in enhancing the overall student experience and fostering a nurturing and vibrant community at the CIEE Singapore center. Ever the instrumental matronly...

Sonia Ng

Academic Manager

Balancing administrative duties with a commitment to pedagogical excellence, Sonia was the Head of Department with the Ministry of Education of Singapore for 20 years before joining CIEE. At CIEE...

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!

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