Tallinn
Tallinn, Estonia

Sustainable Smart Cities

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

19 weeks

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

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Overview

Your Sustainable Smart Cites program in Tallinn lasts a full semester and provides an in-depth look at how Estonia'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 Tallinn 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 Tallinn!

Explore our sustainable smart cities courses

Unique Experiences 

Volunteer at a local foodbank

to gain hands-on experience in reducing food waste while helping those in need

Visit the Ministry of Climate

to observe how policymakers shape sustainability strategies, providing valuable insights into the process that drives environmental change

Visit the futuristic Telliskivi Creative City and the Smart City Lab

to explore innovative urban solutions and experience how creativity and technology are transforming sustainable city living

Experience
  • tallinn-students-tartu-bridge
  • Narva Street outside of TalTech in Tallinn

Your Destination 

Tallinn is a sustainable smart city recognized for its innovative digital solutions, energy-efficient public transport, and commitment to sustainability. The city integrates smart technology, eco-friendly infrastructure, and green initiatives to enhance urban life. Students can explore historic landmarks like the Tallinn Old Town, modern architecture, and a thriving startup ecosystem. Whether you are studying environmental science, business, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Tallinn offers a dynamic and forward-thinking 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 Tallinn. 

tallinn-botanical-garden-overhead

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.  
tallinn-girl-medieval-bow-village

Excursions & Activities 

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

  • Visit the e-Estonia Briefing Centre to gain insights into Estonia's digital transformation and discover how innovative e-governance and digital solutions are shaping the future of sustainable cities and global policy 
  • Tour Mustjoe Tavern to experience a blend of history and sustainability through its ancient buildings, authentic smoke sauna, and locally sourced farm cuisine, all set in the eco-conscious Korvemaa region 
  • Network with local sustainability initiatives like "Let's Do It World" and Mondo NGO, Estonian organizations dedicated to promoting sustainability, environmental protection, and equal rights 

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

Top 10 Russian Slang Words & Phrases You Must Know

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Russian is the second-most popular language spoken in Estonia, mainly spoken by those who live in communities that border the largest country in the world. It’s also a language that... keep reading

From CIEE

Interning in Tallinn: Student's Experience

By CIEE Tallinn at CIEE

This blog post comes from our Fall 2024 student, Samuel, who had the opportunity to intern at the International Centre for Defence and Security (ICDS). As Estonia's leading think tank... keep reading

From CIEE

Students Meet U.S. Ambassador George P. Kent at the U.S. Embassy in Tallinn

By CIEE Tallinn at CIEE

Insights from Ambassador George P. Kent and Public Affairs Officer Michael Snyder We had an amazing visit to the U.S. Embassy in Tallinn, where our students had the incredible opportunity... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Tallinn: Study in Tallinn’s city center at Tallinn University, CIEE’s partner institution, just a 10-minute tram ride from the historic Old Town and within walking distance of Kadriorg Park, Estonia’s largest urban park, as well as the harbor and key cultural landmarks. CIEE Tallinn offers a modern learning environment with a library, study areas, and student lounges.

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech): Creators of digital innovations, Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is leading Estonia and the world toward a sustainable digital future with confidence. As a leader in science, technology, and innovation, the school maintains constant interaction with universities around the world, bringing together scientists, students, and entrepreneurs. TalTech is also the most international university in Estonia. Of the nearly 10,000 enrolled students, approximately 16% come from more than 100 different countries across the globe.    

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

2.5

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

  • 1-2 CIEE courses  
  • 3-4 courses at TalTech (9 credits) 
  • Up to two ASU online courses (max 6 total credits), after a required minimum of 12 in-person credits. 
  • In the spring term, only ASU session B is available 

Program Credit

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

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; 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)  
  • TalTech Courses: Typically, 3-4.5 U.S. semester/4.5-6.75 quarter credits; maximum 32 contact hours per 3 U.S. credits      
  • 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. 

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech): TalTech is a compact campus with state-of-the-art laboratories, a modern library, a business center, an active student house, a sports hall, several restaurants, and numerous student organizations. There is always a way to put what you study into practice.  

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.  

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech): University classes are typically scheduled Monday through Friday. CIEE classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday. Classes at TalTech usually consist of around 20 students but can be as large as 50. Coursework is centered around learning outcomes and will be divided into lectures, practice time, and exercises. 

 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.  

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech): A final exam will be administered at the end of each course. Students should expect to have daily homework assignments and weekly quizzes.  Pass/fail” is not allowed for CIEE students. 

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) Tallinn University of Technology (Taltech) ASU Courses (online) 

Building Sustainable Cities 

Sustainable Development in the 21st Century 

Business & Sustainability 

Engineering, Sustainability & Society 

Sustainable Tourism 

Digital Systems Design 

Introduction to Sustainable Energy Engineering 

Industrial Design Basics 

Introduction to Entrepreneurship 

Machine Engineering – project 

 

Introduction to Sustainability

Sustainable World 

Sustainable Energy Technology and Systems

Pathways to Sustainability 

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech)  

Students may take courses from the School of Business and Governance, School of Information Technologies, School of Engineering, and the School of Science. There is an extensive list of courses available in English. The list is updated regularly.  

Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are taught in English and are mostly 3 U.S. credits.  

Sample sustainability course list:

  • Introduction to Sustainable Energy Engineering is a course to gain a solid foundation in sustainable energy solutions, exploring innovative technologies and strategies that play a key role in addressing global environmental challenges.
  • Digital Systems Design is a course to explore how digital technologies and smart systems can be integrated into sustainable solutions, improving efficiency and environmental impact across industries and urban environments.
  • Introduction to Entrepreneurship is a course to learn how to create and manage sustainable businesses, developing the skills needed to launch eco-friendly ventures that drive positive environmental and social change. 

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
  • Building Sustainable Cities
  • Sustainable Development in the 21st Century
  • Business and Sustainability
  • Engineering, Sustainability, and Society
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Intercultural Communication and Leadership
  • Russian Language - Beginning I
  • Russian Language - Conversation Advanced I
  • Russian Language - Intermediate I
  • Internship Seminar
  • Service-Learning Project
  • Directed Independent Research 

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

Tallinn's work scene thrives on tech innovation, e-governance, and diverse industries like finance, engineering, and international relations. Known for the highest startups per capita in Europe, the city emphasizes sustainability, with growing sectors in manufacturing and renewable energy, fostering a forward-looking ecosystem. 

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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

Evelyn Müürsepp

Center Director

Evelyn had 15 years of experience in Estonian Government before joining CIEE, where she supported the launch of the CIEE Tallinn Center. Tallinn is Evelyn's hometown, and she enjoys the...

Mari Prok

Student Life Manager

Mari holds a Master's degree in Social Sciences, blending a multicultural background with over four years of hands-on experience in marketing & IT project management, event planning, and client relations.

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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