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London
London, England

Sustainable Smart Cities

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

21 weeks

Eligibility

3.0 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Sustainable Smart Cites program in London lasts a full semester and provides an in-depth look at how England's capital is using innovative urban design solutions to prepare for the future. You will enroll in at least one sustainability course that explores how urban planning, technology, and public policy contribute to sustainability in London 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 London! 

Explore our sustainable smart cities courses

Unique Experiences

EXPLORE SUSTAINABLE LONDON ON AN AWARD-WINNING WALKING TOUR

TO LEARN ABOUT WASTE MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES, THE EMERGENCE OF ETHICAL BUSINESS HUBS, AND THE CITY’S URBAN GREENING MOVEMENT

ENGAGE WITH EXPERT URBAN PLANNERS IN TOPICAL WORKSHOPS

TO GAIN INSIGHTS INTO HOW LONDON IS SEEKING TO DEVELOP CLIMATE RESILIENCE, SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE AND REACH NET ZERO CARBON GOALS

VISIT THE BUILDING CENTRE IN BLOOMSBURY

TO ATTEND EXHIBITS ON ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS, GREEN BUILDING INNOVATIONS, AND CARBON NEUTRAL URBAN DESIGN

Experience
  • London
  • London Big Ben treet

Your Destination

London is a sustainable smart city known for its commitment to green energy, smart technology, and efficient public transport. The city integrates eco-friendly design, renewable energy solutions, and cutting-edge infrastructure to enhance urban living. Students can explore iconic landmarks like the British Museum, the Tower of London, and vibrant neighborhoods such as Shoreditch, alongside a thriving tech and startup scene. Whether you are studying environmental science, business, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, London offers an inspiring and dynamic study abroad experience. 

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 London.

london street

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 or directed independent research project, to develop integrated sustainable solutions that address economic, social, and environmental challenges. 
thames barrier london

Excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in London will open doors for you to explore England’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:  

  • Tour the historic Crossness Pumping Station, a key player in radically improving public health and water sanitation, by helping to prevent cholera outbreaks
  • Visit the Thames Barrier, one of the largest movable flood barriers in the world, to learn about London’s primary defense against flooding
  • Volunteer in a community garden to help locals grow fresh produce, maintain green spaces, and promote eco-friendly gardening practices while learning about community-supported agriculture

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

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From CIEE

Life-Changing Study Abroad Experience in London

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Brooke Hornstein When I first arrived in London to study abroad at University College London (UCL) through CIEE, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. This was my... keep reading

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4 Things I learned While Studying Abroad

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By: Aja Tsutsumi Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity to explore the world and experience life in a foreign country but can also be very daunting! For many, study abroad... keep reading

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From CIEE

Studying Abroad in London as a Hispanic First-Generation Student

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Kimberly Hurtado Lora I am forever grateful to CIEE for the amazing opportunity to study abroad in London. I’m a Hispanic first-generation student who never thought the world would... keep reading

Housing

Housing & Meals

Housing

CIEE London offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From shared studio to shared apartments, we will strive for your accommodation preferences to be met. All housing has convenient access to plenty of shopping, supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation.  

  • Standard Housing: Includes a compact double studio room at a student residence hall. Residence halls boast common areas, a small kitchen, shared bathroom, and laundry facilities. Housing is located within 45 minutes of CIEE London.    
  • Select Housing: Includes a double room at a shared apartment. Shared apartments feature a kitchen, bathroom, common areas, and laundry facilities shared with other students. Shared apartments are located approximately 30 minutes from CIEE London. Select housing requires an additional fee.  

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.  

Meals

Meals are not included. Students prepare their own meals in their own kitchenette or the residence hall’s shared kitchen facilities. CIEE provides basic cooking utensils and cleaning supplies. There is also a wide range of restaurants and cafes located nearby.   

london-housing-25-standard-reshall-double-studio-bed

Standard Residence Hall

Double studio

london-housing-25-standard-reshall-double-kitchenette

Standard Residence Hall

Studio kitchenette

london-housing-25-select-apartment-double-room

Select Apartment

Double room

london-housing-25-select-apartment-kitching-living-room

Select Apartment

Living room and kitchen area

London scones and jam

Meals

Scones and jam

Academics

Academics

CIEE London: Study in the Bloomsbury district, one of London’s most vibrant neighborhoods set in the academic and literary heart of the city. CIEE London features classrooms, a student lounge, a library, a study space, a student life office, an academic advising office, a café, and a garden terrace.

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL): QMUL is composed of five institutions founded in 1785 and onwards. In 2000, it took on its formal name, Queen Mary University of London. Today, QMUL is the only campus university in London. Roughly 25,000+ students study onsite across its five campuses, with the majority located at Mile End. At any given time, there are more than 1,000 study abroad students living and learning at QMUL, making this university a wonderful place to connect with like-minded international students. QMUL’s roots are in STEM, humanities, business, and law, and students can expect an immersive British international university experience while here.  

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

3.0

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 London Sustainable Smart Cities students enroll in courses for a total of 12-16 credits per semester. At least one course in the area of sustainability is required. Students select from:  

  • CIEE courses  
  • 0-2 courses at QMUL
  • Up to one ASU online course (max 4 credits), after a required 12 in-person credits  
    • In the Fall term, only ASU session B is available 

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-16 (15-16 recommended) U.S. semester credits/18-24 quarter credits.    

Course Credit

  • Total credit: 12-16 (15-16 recommended) U.S. semester credits/18-24 quarter credits.    aCIEE 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) 
  • QMUL Courses: 4 U.S. semester/6 quarter credits; 150 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.  
  • Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) Courses: Classes at QMUL are typically scheduled Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students are expected to complete two to three hours of independent work for every hour in class. Some courses (e.g. languages) meet for 10 hours per week. Others (e.g. STEM) meet for six to eight hours per week with an expectation of 20-25 hours of independent work outside of labs/seminars/lectures. Others (e.g. history) meet for one-hour lectures plus a seminar per module per week with an expectation of three hours of work per one hour in class per module. Most courses combine lectures with local field trips and excursions to help students gain a better understanding of the local culture and use their language skills with local residents.
  • 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. 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

  • 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.  
  • Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) classes include seminars, lectures, and sometimes labs. They will require students to do independent work outside of class.
  • 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.  

Queen Mary University of London (QMUL): A final assignment will be administered at the end of each course. Dates for these are released at the beginning of each course. 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

English

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)Queen Mary University of London (QMUL)ASU Courses (online)

Building Sustainable Cities 

Sustainable Development in the 21st Century 

Business & Sustainability 

Engineering, Sustainability & Society 

Sustainable Tourism 

Urban Ecology

Social and Sustainable Innovation

Sustainable Finance

Sustainability and the Corporation

Cities and Regions in Transition

Flood Risk Management and Modelling 

Introduction to Sustainability 

Sustainable World 

Sustainable Energy Technology and Systems

Pathways to Sustainability 

  • Building Sustainable Cities
  • Sustainable Development in the 21st Century
  • Business and Sustainability
  • Engineering, Sustainability, and Society
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Urban Ecology
  • Global Health and Emerging Diseases
  • British Art History: The Golden Age
  • British Children's Literature
  • British Pop Culture
  • British Theatre: A History
  • Politics of Religion
  • History of Human Enslavement
  • History of The British Empire
  • Entrepreneurship and Start-Up Culture
  • International Finance
  • International Journalism
  • International Marketing
  • Principles of International Business
  • Strategic Management
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Internship Seminar
  • Service-Learning Project
  • Directed Independent Research 

QMUL courses: Students on this program can enroll in up to two courses/modules per semester (4 U.S. credits each), but they are not limited to one subject area; they can take courses across any discipline except medicine or dentistry. Preference for course/module allocation is given to those who require a course in order to stay on track to graduate from their home institution. Otherwise, course/module options requested by study abroad (associate) students are viewed equally alongside those requested by home students.    

QMUL courses can be chosen from a catalog of 950+ choices at Levels 4, 5, or 6. These levels equate to the U.K. degree system, where students graduate after three years of full-time undergraduate study. Level 4 is equivalent to the first year, Level 5 to the second year, and Level 6 to the third year. Please note: Level 7 is a postgraduate level and courses at this level should not be chosen when applying. Some modules (courses) may not be available to study abroad (associate) students, but these can be filtered out when searching for options. You can search via discipline via the online Module Directory. You can refine by level and semester of study too.  

A link to the course catalog is available here.  

Examples of courses of relevance to this program, and offered by QMUL, include:

  • Urban Ecology
    • The module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the ecological principles, challenges, and solutions associated with urban environments in the United Kingdom.
  • Social and Sustainable Innovation
    • Thinking critically about the role of innovation in social justice and sustainable development is the goal by providing a rigorous conceptual understanding of various perspectives of emerging models of innovation, such as sustainable, social, frugal, reverse, grassroots, and inclusive innovation along with the practical challenges of managing these approaches.
  • Sustainable Finance
    • This module will study the principles of sustainable finance, exploring the role played by financial markets and institutions in the transition to a sustainable economy. Students will discuss the environment as a global public good, the prospects for using financial instruments and institutions to mitigate global externalities, and various perspectives on corporate social responsibility.
  • Sustainability and the Corporation
    • This course examines how we should design, finance, and regulate corporations in order to align their incentives with sustainability issues in general. The course will focus on issues such as the concept of sustainability and the relationship between sustainability and the corporation.
  • Cities and Regions in Transition
    • Cities and Regions in Transition will enable students to gain in-depth knowledge and understanding of contemporary urban change. It does so by situating UK cities in a transnational context.
  • Flood Risk Management and Modeling
    • This module provides students with knowledge and skills related to flood risk management. It examines the current status of flood risk and associated legislation in the UK and Europe. Flood generation mechanisms are explained and novel management options for reducing flood risk are critically reviewed. Potential impacts of predicted changes in climate and socio-economic conditions on UK flood risk are also explored. 

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

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.

An intern works on a design in a workshop

Architecture and Construction

Develop hands-on technical skills and responsible building planning while working for global architecture firms abroad.

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 intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

Female finance intern presenting to coworkers at a whiteboard in a conference room

Finance

Study global markets, financial systems, and cross-border investment strategies in international firms, banks, and companies.

student interns standing in Spanish Parliament

Government and Public Administration

Gain insight into global policy-making, diplomatic relations, and governance practices in agencies, nonprofits, and firms.

A student intern sitting at a microscope in a lab

Health Science

Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.

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.

Interns wearing hardhats at a community development site

Human Services

Deepen your knowledge of human services through social welfare work, community development, and international advocacy.

A female intern works on a computer server

Information Technology

Explore diverse tech environments, cutting-edge innovation, and emerging technologies in South Korea, Spain, and more.

A lawyer and an intern reviewing documents in an office

Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security

Experience international legal systems, global justice issues, and law enforcement challenges in courts, firms, and agencies.

A female intern listens to instructions from her teacher

Manufacturing

Study global supply chains, production technologies, and international business strategies in England, Singapore, and more.

Marketing interns pose at a Loki premiere event

Marketing, Sales and Service

Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.

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.

Find Internship Options

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

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 21 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

Claire Kinloch Anderson

Claire Kinloch Anderson

Center Director

Claire is an experienced professional with a strong background in broadcast journalism, working for the BBC, Sky TV, and STV. With an M.A. in Modern Languages from Cambridge University, she heads up the vibrant team in Glasgow with a passion for all things Scottish.

leigh lawrence

Dr. Leigh Lawrence

Academic Director

Leigh Lawrence is a native of San Diego. She completed her undergraduate degree as ASU in Chinese Languages and Literature before completing an MA in East Asian Studies at Yale...

sean_odonnell

Seán O’Donnell

Student Life Manager

Seán O’Donnell studied Anthropology at Goldsmiths – perhaps that’s why he is so good at working with students as they explore and study with us in London! He has worked...

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!

Apply Now

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.

Contact Us

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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