High School Summer Abroad Social Change Programs
Make an Impact with a Summer Abroad!
Imagine crafting climate change advocacy campaigns in Copenhagen or meeting government leaders in Brussels. Our Social Change programs empower you to explore diplomacy, sustainability, and justice in a global setting. Through conversations with local organizations and policy discussions, you will analyze real-world challenges. Connect with local nonprofits and organizations for a firsthand look at advocacy and develop your own strategy for impact in your own community.
By the end of your program, you’ll return home with leadership skills, greater cultural awareness, and the confidence to advocate for others.
A Summer for Fun, Friends, and Your Future
Fun
Dive into exciting hands-on projects in justice, equity, or sustainability. Get inspired by a whole new culture through daily activities and excursions.
Friends
Connect with students who share your passion for social change! Build friendships that last far beyond the summer as you work side by side with a shared purpose.
Future
Develop advocacy strategies, leadership skills, and a global perspective that sets you apart on college applications. Return home with the confidence to make changes in your own community and beyond!
Experience Social Change Around the World
Explore our Social Change programs in 6 exciting destinations around the world. Study subjects like Social Justice & Advocacy in Dublin or Diplomacy & Government in Tallinn. Our immersive programs build your confidence and advocacy skills, equipping you with a competitive edge for college applications and a career in Social Change.
All programs include:
- Classes you won’t want to miss: Spend 3 hours each day in interactive classes and hands-on field experiences, exploring today’s most important social issues and discovering how you can create meaningful change.
- Firsthand experience: Engage in meaningful public discussions with local leaders, learning how to build consensus and work with others to address community challenges.
- Global perspective: Explore how culture and both local and international government systems influence advocacy through immersive activities and excursions.
Stats
total travelers
of alumni say CIEE programs helped them connect with different perspectives
of alumni report improved interpersonal communication skills
Standards-based Study Abroad Curriculum
CIEE Social Change programs align with the National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies, diving into core themes and principles through expert instruction and cultural immersion for a truly unique learning experience abroad.
Our programs explore themes such as:
- Culture
- Time, continuity, and change
- People, places, and environments
- Individual development and identity
- Individuals, groups, and institutions
- Power, authority, and global connections
- Civic ideals & practices
Learn more about our academic approach and find resources for educators in our High School Educator Hub.
blogs
An Overnight Trip to Samsø Denmark’s Energy Island
This blog was written by a student intern on a CIEE High School Summer Abroad program in 2025. You can find more information about the author at the end of... keep reading
Sun, Sand, and Stories: A Day Exploring Pärnu
The following blog was written by a student intern on a 2026 CIEE high school summer abroad program. Read on for a first-hand account of what an excursion is like... keep reading
Experiencing the History of Korea Beyond the Guidebooks
As their second week in Korea came to a close, our high school participants in the CIEE Peace and Democracy program explored places far beyond the typical tourist paths. Instead... keep reading