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Santiago, Chile

Engineering, Technology, and Science

New for Fall 2025!

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

19 weeks

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable STEM journey in the heart of Santiago! The Engineering, Technology, and Sciences program offers students a unique chance to immerse themselves in an enriching academic experience while enjoying the charm and culture of one of this dynamic South American capital. With access to CIEE courses, our local business school partners, and an extensive catalog of more than 3,000 online classes available through Arizona State University (including lab-based courses), you can tailor your studies to fit your interests and degree requirements.

Santiago is home to numerous established and emerging companies in STEM fields, which makes it an ideal setting for site visits, guest lectures, and networking opportunities. Additionally, Santiago’s proximity to diverse ecosystems – from the Andes to the coastal Pacific – provides unique fieldwork experiences, bringing your studies to life in ways that are both academically enriching and professionally rewarding.

Beyond academics, you’ll have ample opportunities to enrich your cultural experience. Engage in extracurricular and co-curricular activities that take you off the beaten path, exploring hidden gems and enjoying immersive excursions throughout Santiago. Whether you’re visiting historical landmarks or experiencing local traditions, you’ll gain a better understanding of Chilean culture. Both in and out of the classroom, this program is an opportunity to broaden your horizons, make lasting memories, and set yourself apart in the competitive world of STEM! 

Unique Experiences

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Explore Santiago's vibe

discovering hidden cafes, artisan shops, and lively plazas that showcase the daily rhythm and cultural richness of each neighborhood

Connect with Santiago's adventure scene

by hiking in the Andes, gaining a new perspective on the city and the natural wonders that surround it

Immerse yourself in local flavors

through hands-on wine-tasting experiences, exploring Chile's rich wine heritage and gaining insight into one of the country's most celebrated industries

50+

HIKING TRAILS ACCESSIBLE FROM THE CITY

7

7

20

VINEYARDS IN SANTIAGO REGION

Experience
  • santiago ch dance
  • santiago-ch-view-hildalgo-tower
  • student walking among vineyard in santiago chile

Your Destination

Santiago is a city of wonders, where the past and present intertwine to create a tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. The city is framed by the majestic Andes Mountains, their snow-capped peaks providing a breathtaking backdrop to the urban landscape. Within the city, you will explore the historic neighborhoods of Barrio Lastarria and Barrio Bellavista, where colonial architecture blends seamlessly with modern art galleries, boutique shops, and vibrant street art. Santiago's culinary scene is equally rich, offering a tantalizing array of flavors, from traditional Chilean dishes to international cuisine, mixed with food offerings from all over Latin America! And when it’s time for disconnecting and recharging, Santiago's multiple parks and green spaces provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets.  

As an international student, you will embark on your daily routines commuting by an efficient metro system or cycling along dedicated bike lanes with the Andes surrounding and providing a framework for your daily adventures. Afternoons are often spent exploring Santiago's cultural attractions, such as museums and art galleries, with friends or CIEE peers in customized cultural outings. Evenings in Santiago begin with the tantalizing aromas of fresh-baked bread and tea at “once” time with friends and family, to later enjoying gatherings in parks, cafés, or theaters to socialize and appreciate the city's rich cultural offerings, from live music performances to theater productions.

Whether exploring the city's historic sites, indulging in its culinary delights, or simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds it, Santiago is a city that never fails to captivate and inspire.

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 Santiago. 

The Culture

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Excursions & Activities

  • Visit national parks such as Quebrada de Macul, San Carlos de Apoquindo, or Aguas de Ramon
  • Visit startups like:
    • Big retailers and airways
    • A robotics company that develops and sells robotic appliances
    • Centro CAPTA
  • Visit a company dedicated to creating seismic protection technologies
  • Hike San Cristobal Hill (an island hill in the middle of Santiago) and ride the cable cart
  • Scout for vintage antiques in one of Santiago’s most famous weekend markets  
  • Take a wine tasting workshop, learning and sampling local the local wines like Carménère  
  • Explore one of Santiago’s 30+ museums dedicated to fashion, education, human rights, carpentry, music, pre-Columbian art, and more  
  • Overcome any fear of ghosts on a site visit to Santiago’s city hall cemeteries 
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Experiential Learning

For-credit Directed Independent Research is for qualified students who have demonstrated academic rigor and curiosity towards a particular research topic. Independent research topics will be approved by the CIEE Santiago Center Director and home institution and should ideally reflect a topic that is relevant to Chile. To be accepted into this course, students must submit a structured proposal with topic of exploration, significance of research topic as it relates to Chile, methodology, a literature review, and a schedule of research milestones. Upon research completion, students will present their findings to a panel of academics.  

A for-credit part-time internship allows students the opportunity to have practical work experience in a company within engineering, technology, or science sectors. In addition to the on-site business experience, students participating in an internship program have a weekly classroom component, which provides academic support to their practical experience. Speaking Spanish makes easier to secure an internship but is not a requirement for all placements.  

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Study Abroad Chile: The Ultimate Guide

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Ready to take your study abroad experience to the next level? Say hello to Chile, the long, skinny gem of Latin America, where adventure meets education in the heart of... keep reading

From CIEE

6 Best Study Abroad Programs in Chile

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

If you’re asking yourself, “Is Chile a good place to study abroad?” the answer is a resounding yes! Step off the plane into a city buzzing with life, where snow-capped... keep reading

From CIEE

What are the Best Places to Study Abroad in Latin America?

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

If you’re reading this, you’re probably ready to take your college experience to the next level with an extraordinary study abroad adventure. What better way to do than by discovering... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

Students have wide flexibility to design their own academic load, with options from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and Universidad Diego Portales, from CIEE and/or ASU online, and in English and/or Spanish.

  • Before your arrival onsite, you will have a one-on-one academic counseling with local staff to review your options and decide whether your proposed schedule is logistically feasible (commuting between campuses may take between 30 to 45 minutes).  

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile   
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (UC) is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Latin America, known for its rigorous academic programs and innovative research. UC fosters a multidisciplinary approach to education, encouraging collaboration across fields like engineering, science, and technology. Its state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers support cutting-edge projects in areas such as renewable energy, biotechnology, and astronomy. The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its strong ties to global institutions, fostering a vibrant international exchange. UC provides an intellectually stimulating environment where students are challenged to become leaders in their respective fields.  

Universidad Diego Portales   
Universidad Diego Portales (UDP) is renowned for its progressive and dynamic academic environment, emphasizing critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social responsibility. UDP offers strong programs in engineering, technology, and the sciences, supported by modern research facilities and innovative teaching methods. The university’s faculty is composed of distinguished professionals actively engaged in groundbreaking research, which provides students with opportunities to participate in real-world projects. UDP’s commitment to fostering a socially conscious education sets it apart, as students are encouraged to address contemporary global challenges through their studies. The university’s urban setting in Santiago further enriches the academic experience with diverse perspectives.  

Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions during the semester and 6-week sessions in the summer that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.

GPA

2.5

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 Santiago ETS students take courses for a total of 12-18 semester credits. Students enroll in 4-5 courses per semester, choosing from: 

  • CIEE courses 
  • Host Institution courses at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and/or Universidad Diego Portales. 
    • Students may choose to take courses from both host universities. Local staff will advise on possible combinations. There is a commute of about 30 to 45 minutes between campuses to consider for final course schedule. 
  • Up to two ASU online courses (max 8 credits total) 
    • Spring Term: Students can choose to enroll in ASU Session B only 
    • Fall Term: Students can choose to enroll in ASU Session A and/or B 
  • One course in the area of Engineering, Technology or Sciences, offered at CIEE, the host universities, or ASU online is required 

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-18 U.S. semester/18-27 quarter credits; 15-16 credits recommended.

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours 
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 seminar hours, 100-120 internship placement hours 
  • CIEE Directed Independent Research: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 contact hours, 100-120 research hours 
  • Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Courses: 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits, unless otherwise noted 
  • Universidad Diego Portales Courses: 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits, unless otherwise noted 
  • ASU online Courses: Typically, 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-60 quarter credits; 45-60 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

Courses taught in English at partner universities tend to gather local students who are enthusiasts of the language and want to practice more. Thus, the presence of international students in local courses is highly valued by instructors as they see it as an opportunity to add foreign perspectives to the local audience. On the other hand, CIEE-offered courses are exclusively for CIEE students across programs, and they are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. Classes at host institutions are typically scheduled Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., while CIEE courses usually go from Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Both CIEE and host institution classes tend to meet twice a week. 

In terms of attendance, all three host institutions have a policy requiring students to attend more than 80% of class time. Additionally, some courses offer weekly complimentary tutoring sessions with a teaching assistant (TA). These sessions are sometimes considered part of the class attendance, or the tutoring session may be factored into the class's final grade. CIEE courses are ruled by similar policies. CIEE co-curriculars have mandatory participation. 

CIEE instructors use Canvas as their academic platform. Communications, notifications, along with assignments, grades, and readings are stored and disseminated through this means. Each host institution has its own platform. 

ASU Courses: You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. Some are earning their degrees entirely online, while others, like you, are supplementing their education with an online course. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online. Most ASU online courses are asynchronous, meaning there are no set log-in times, but make sure to verify this before the add/drop deadline in case you want to make a change.

Class Format

In general, the Chilean pedagogical teaching approach is more teacher-centered, with the instructor mainly leading the lectures and facilitating the course discussions. Instructors at local universities tend not to have office hours. Instead, they can be reached by email, the corresponding academic platform, or right after or before class time.   

Students usually have daily homework assignments and readings informed by the instructor in the online platform for the course, via email or orally during class time. Students are not required to buy books as most of the bibliographical materials are provided by the course facilitator on the online platform and they are usually available in the host institution library. In terms of co-curricular activities, CIEE courses have guaranteed co-curricular activities, but host-institution courses tend not to offer this type of opportunity to students.   

To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel out of Santiago when classes are in session and plan trips for the long weekends. 

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5 weeks long in semesters and 6 weeks long in the summer, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end. You’ll need a standard PC or Mac desktop or laptop computer with a download speed higher than 25 Mbps, as well as access to email, productivity software like Microsoft Office and other applications needed to perform a variety of educational functions. Most course materials you will need are available online. Since you are working mostly or entirely asynchronously, you’re given deadlines for your assignments by your instructor or in your syllabus, but you can work at your own pace within these due dates. Most instructors suggest a recommended pace to optimize your learning, but you have the flexibility to complete your ASU courses while pursuing your studies at your CIEE location.

Grading

CIEE reports all final course grades to students’ home institutions using a U.S. letter grade equivalent scale of A-F. For CIEE-administered courses, students’ grades are based on attendance, class engagement, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi. Just as with CIEE courses, final grades for local institution courses are a compound of components of a 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-part written exams. The final examination may be held in either oral or written format (or both) and is usually worth around 30% of the final grade for the course. 

ASU grading: As a U.S. institution of higher education, the grading practices should be familiar to any CIEE student. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” grading options are not allowed for CIEE students. Please see the CIEE Academic Manual for Students for more information about your grades.

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

English and/or Spanish

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

The following lists of courses constitute a representative sample of STEM course offerings through the host universities and are subject to change. In some cases, prior background knowledge may be required to enroll in a class. 

Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile:

  • Electric Machine Drivers  
  • Introduction to the Gastronomic Engineering  
  • Astronomy  
  • Research, innovation and entrepreneurship  
  • Fintech: financial applications    
  • Number theory  
  • Algebraic Topology    

Universidad Diego Portales:

  • Python for Engineers  
  • Environment and Sustainable Development  
  • Exploring the Solar System and Beyond  
  • Zooming in and out: Scaling the Universe 

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

Santiago's fast-paced, dynamic, and collaborative work scene focuses on innovation, teamwork, and adapting to global trends. Key sectors include finance, tech, startups, mining, and agriculture. The city emphasizes sustainability and work-life balance within a modern, rapidly growing urban environment. 

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.

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.

And intern and a manger reviewing warehouse inventory

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics

Deepen your understanding of international trade dynamics, supply chains, and logistics in firms, agencies, and centers.

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
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • Trailblazer Grant
  • Fall 25 or Spring 26 Leading Change in Latin America Student Award

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 Fall 2025 19 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.

Estimated Costs

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

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

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

Victor Muñoz

Programs and Finance Manager

Víctor is passionate about studies. He graduated in Business and Economy, has a master's degree on Strategic Management and Project Evaluation, and certifications on Data Science in Python. He also...

Camila Soto

Program Coordinator

Camila Soto has a BA in Literature with experience in independent publishing, language teaching and international education. At CIEE she has worked at the Teach in Chile program and as...

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