Your Guide to CIEE's Enhanced Open Campus Block and Semester In Programs

Studying abroad should be as flexible and unique as you are – while also equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to address the world’s most pressing challenges. That’s why CIEE is taking study abroad to the next level with its enhanced sustainability- and environmental science-focused courses across eco-conscious locations in CIEE’s Open Campus Block and Semester In network!  

With ultimate flexibility, incredible destinations to choose from, and niche courses across science and sustainability subjects, you can tailor your experience to match your goals. Whether you're looking to level up your academics or explore the world, this is your chance to make it happen. 

Let’s jump in to how you can forward your activist goals and become a catalyst for positive change! 

Open Campus Block Programs 

CIEE’s Open Campus Block programs offer you the most flexibility – no matter if your school follows the U.S. semester or quarter calendar. 

Each block is six weeks long, and you can sign up for just one block, two blocks, or up to three consecutive blocks – meaning your experience could study abroad for six, 12, or 18 weeks long! It’s up to you how long you want to be abroad. 

Another benefit of the Open Campus Block program is that you can choose either a single or multiple locations. Spend up to 18 weeks in just one city for deep cultural immersion or select up to three cities in which you’d want to study, giving you even more of a mobile global experience. In short, you could travel across three separate continents in just one term! 

You’re also able to enroll in courses across a wide variety of subjects because there are no language requirements with Open Campus Block. All your courses will be delivered in English! Don’t worry that you don’t know French in Paris or Italian in Rome. Your professors will teach all courses in English to align with the American student.  

Read on to learn more about some of CIEE’s more popular Open Campus Block programs! 

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to CIEE Open Campus Block 

Featured Program #1: Open Campus Block in Berlin 

Doing an Open Campus Block in Berlin, Germany, means you’ll explore a blend of old and new, with historic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate standing alongside modern marvels like the Sony Center. And you’ll be able to explore it all with Berlin's 24-hour public transportation system, which makes it easy to visit the city's various neighborhoods. 

You can sign up for classes in several subjects, like business, communications, literature, and more. Taking a German language class is also an option – as is adding on a part-time internship. 

Berlin is one of the CIEE locations that’s now offering new and enhanced classes in environmental science and sustainability. These may include: 

• Berlin and the Politics of Building Sustainable Cities
• Design and Sustainability Seminar
• Global Environmental Policy 

When you study abroad in Berlin, you’ll get a tailored academic experience and develop lasting connections. Get ready to broaden your perspectives in Germany's vibrant capital! 

Featured Program #2: Open Campus Block in Shanghai 

If you want to experience the dynamic atmosphere and rapid development of one of the world's largest cities, Shanghai, China, should fulfill you. Shanghai offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions, from the famous Bund waterfront to trendy shopping districts. 

Take courses in business, culture, STEM, and more – or use the opportunity to learn Chinese. You can also apply for any one of dozens of internships, too! 

For sustainability and environmental science courses in Shanghai, consider courses like: 

• Climate Change Science and Policy
• Environmental Ethics
• Managing Sustainability in Transnational Business 

In Shanghai, you can dive into China's culture and urban development while benefiting from a flexible and immersive study abroad experience. 

Featured Program #3: Open Campus Block in London 

Travel to London, England, one of the world's most influential and diverse cities. You’ll get to discover iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London. 

Choose from courses on any number of topics, like international relations, art, literature, and more. And you can boost your resume, should you choose to  

London is another city with new environmental science and sustainability courses, like: 

• British STEM Innovators
• Sustainable Development in the 21st Century
• And more 

The London study abroad experience lets you dive into the United Kingdom's rich history, vibrant culture, and global influence while enjoying a personalized adventure. 

EXPLORE OPEN CAMPUS BLOCK PROGRAMS 

Semester In Programs 

CIEE’s Semester In programs offer the traditional experience that most students think about when considering studying abroad. They last 16-18 weeks – the standard U.S. semester – and are worth about 12-16 credits. Depending on the location, they may offer an optional for-credit internship placement. 

These programs are also designed for any academic major to enjoy any CIEE city of their choosing. However, you’ll want to work with your academic advisor to see which classes fit into your college program so you can meet your degree requirements. Course subjects could include a variety of academic areas, including:  

• Agriculture
• Business, Economics, + Marketing
• Communications
• Computer Science / IT
• Environment and Sustainability
• History
• Language
• Literature
• Psychology
• Visual and Performing Arts
• And many more 

Don’t know a foreign language? Or have advanced language skills? Either way, Semester In programs will work for you. That’s because most host cities teach in both English and the official language of your host city. 

You’ll also have opportunities to study at CIEE centers, local partner universities, or even online through CIEE x ASU online courses. This gives you so many options to take the classes you want – at no added cost! 

By participating in a CIEE Semester In program, you'll deepen your understanding of the culture, history, and social scene while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of some of the world’s most fascinating cities! 

Read More: Your Guide to CIEE Semester In Programs: Everything You Need to Know 

Featured Program #1: Semester in Barcelona 

Begin a thrilling journey through Spain's captivating Barcelona! You could take in the views from Catalonia’s mountain ranges, explore the famous Gràcia neighborhood, or go see rooftop concerts at Casa Batlló. 

Meet up with students of all academic backgrounds inside and out of the classroom, allowing you to participate in excursions, internships, or language programs that will enhance your experience. 

Sign up for classes at CIEE Barcelona or one of the partner institutions: Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Universitat de Vic (UVic), or Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB). Topics could include Engineering, Sustainability, and Society; Urban Ecology; and many more! 

Say ¡sí! to an unforgettable semester in one of Europe's most unforgettable cities! 

Featured Program #2: Semester in Singapore 

Experience the dynamic city-state of Singapore with a semester abroad, designed for all majors. Explore Singapore's unique blend of Southeast Asian cultures using its efficient public transport system and soak up the rich heritage and modernity that this city has to offer. 

Complement your academic journey with a for-credit internship and off-the-beaten-path excursions.  

Choose from an array of courses at CIEE and partner universities Singapore Management University (SMU) and James Cook University (JCU). These may include topics like Global Change and the Environment, and more! 

Don't miss your chance to broaden your horizons and create lifelong memories in Singapore, a global hub of innovation and sustainability. 

Featured Program #3: Semester in Paris 

Immerse yourself in CIEE's Semester in Paris program, where you can experience French culture firsthand! Explore iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral and indulge in world-class cuisine, museums, and art galleries. 

You’ll get to deepen your connection to Paris through optional internships, volunteering, or research projects. And enhance your journey with CIEE curricular activities and cultural excursions. 

You can choose from diverse courses at either CIEE Paris and renowned partner Institut Catholique de Paris (ICP). They may include topics like Contemporary Challenges in Global Health, and more! 

Embarking on a journey in Paris lets you immerse yourself in the rich history and enchanting beauty of one of Europe's most popular cities. Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Paris as you embrace the adventure of a lifetime in the City of Light. 

EXPLORE SEMESTER IN PROGRAMS 

Enhanced Sustainability and Environmental Science Course Inclusions 

Every day, there’s more and more emphasis on the importance of solving the world’s most pressing sustainability and environmental science challenges. Whether you’re a STEM or sustainability major or a student interested in making a difference in these important fields, take note, because we need today’s students to become tomorrow’s leaders in tackling the urgent issues our world is facing.  

To equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to take action, CIEE has introduced in-demand sustainability and environmental science courses that can open your mind to best practices and solutions. Many of these topics are new, and others have been enhanced to keep up with changes in the environment! 

Taught by prominent experts in cities throughout the world, these offerings are one-of-a-kind. You’ll have access to a prestigious set of subject areas – which can provide you with a unique set of global skills that will stand out on your resume! 

Sustainability course topics may include:  

• Building Sustainable Cities
• Managing Sustainability in International Business
• Sustainable Tourism
• And more 

Environmental science topics may include: 

• Agricultural Ethics and the Developing World
• Environmental Psychology
• Nature Photography, Social Media, and Environmental Engagement
• And more 

When you enroll in these topical and relevant courses, you’ll have countless opportunities to study the topics you’re most interested in. (Take classes from any combination of institutions during your study abroad experience!) Courses are offered through:  

• Your host city’s CIEE Center
• Local partner universities
• Online through CIEE x ASU  

By engaging with CIEE's best-in-class sustainability and environmental science courses, you'll embark on a life-changing journey to protect the planet and secure a brighter future for generations to come. 

Plan Your Journey 

CIEE’s Open Campus Block and Semester In programs make studying abroad more flexible and personalized than ever. Whether you’re looking to explore new cities, take niche sustainability courses, or level up your resume, these programs are designed to fit your college lifestyle. 

The world’s waiting, and so are your next big opportunities! 

SEARCH PROGRAMS