amsterdam-modern-buildings-aerial
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Engineering, Technology + Sciences

Study Program

Tentative Dates

-

12 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 16 semester hours

18 - 24 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable STEM journey in the innovative hub of Amsterdam! The Engineering, Technology, and Sciences program offers students a unique chance to immerse themselves in an enriching academic experience while enjoying the stunning architecture and culture of this dynamic city. With access to CIEE courses 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.

The Netherlands has a rich history of employing innovative technologies to modify the natural environment for human habitation. As one of Europe’s most densely populated nations, with a third of its land below sea level, the Dutch have had to develop advanced technology and engineering solutions to manage their environment and support their population on limited land. Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, serves as a central hub for “smart city” engineering and sustainability startups. The city has emerged as a leader in addressing urban challenges through green energy, engineering, scientific problem-solving, and sustainability-focused innovations, all aimed at meeting climate change goals.

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 Amsterdam. Whether you’re visiting historical landmarks or experiencing local traditions, you’ll gain a better understanding of Dutch 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

Immerse yourself in Amsterdam's rich flavors

with small-group cheese-tasting activities, cooking workshops, or taking part in local brewery tours

\

Explore the city's artistic spirit

by visiting world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, uncovering hidden gems in the Houseboat Museum, and stepping back in time at the Ann Frank House

Discover Amsterdam's historic charm

with a troll through the picturesque Begijnhof Courtyard, a visit to the medieval Oude Kerk, and an afternoon explorin gthe iconic windmills at Zaanse Schans

165

CANALS WEAVE THROUGH THE CITY, EARNING AMSTERDAM THE NICKNAME "VENICE OF THE NORTH"

8

WINDMILLS STILL STAND IN AND AROUND AMSTERDAM, WITH SOME OPEN TO VISITORS FOR A PEEK INTO THE PAST

1,281

BRIDGES CONNECT THE CITY'S CHARMING NEIGHBORHOODS, MAKING IT A CYCLIST AND PEDESTRIAN PARADISE

Experience
  • Amsterdam canal and tower
  • j term students abroad amsterdam

Your Destination

What was once a small fishing village in the 12th century has bloomed into the cultural capital city of the Netherlands, one of the top financial centers in Europe, and the biggest city in the country. Yet its 60 miles of historic canals lined with gable-roofed homes make this city still feel cozy and unmistakably one-of-a-kind!

When you study abroad in Amsterdam, you’ll experience one of the most innovative and multicultural cities in the world. Students can learn all about Amsterdam’s culture, language, and history on a uniquely-designed Amsterdam program. With world-renowned museums, art galleries, and theaters, Amsterdam provides students with an international study abroad experience that they’re sure to remember.

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 Amsterdam. 

The Culture

amsterdam-schoonschip-floating-houses-neighborhood

Excursions & Activities

Each CIEE program has frequent cultural excursions and tours uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance cultural immersion  

ETS in Amsterdam offers STEM-specific extracurricular activities, which may include: 

  • A visit to Microbia to understand the human microbiome and its relationship to health and disease 
  • A visit to the Waternoods museum to explore the risks of water and climate change and the innovative engineering used in water management 
  • A guided tour of the Schoonschip neighborhood in Amsterdam, a sustainable floating residential area in Noord Holland 
  • A tour of Hortus Botanicus in Amsterdam to explore plant biology, biodiversity, and the role of plants in environmental sustainability 
  • Trips to Rotterdam, Eindhoven, Antwerp, or Delft 
amsterdam-students-classroom-lecture

Academic Projects

For-credit directed independent research is for qualified students who have demonstrated academic rigor and curiosity toward a particular research topic. Independent research topics will be approved by CIEE Amsterdam Academic staff and must reflect a topic that is relevant to Amsterdam or The Netherlands. To be accepted into this course, students must submit a structured proposal with topic of exploration, significance of research topic as it relates to The Netherlands, methodology, a literature review, and a schedule of research milestones. Upon research completion, students will present their findings to a panel of academics.   

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Top 10 Dutch Slang Words & Phrases You Must Know

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Heading to Amsterdam for an unforgettable study abroad adventure? You’re in for a treat! Get ready to experience the city’s innovative education, its vibrant canal-side culture, and a European capital... keep reading

From CIEE

Let’s Eat in Amsterdam!

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Clare Cardoza While in Amsterdam, if you’re not in the mood for its famous pickled herring or stamppot dinner, there are still so many restaurants that offer delicious cuisine... keep reading

From CIEE

Finding a Slice of Home at the Waterlooplein Market

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Sophie Cook Hi! My name is Sophie and I am a Tulane student studying in Amsterdam. Before coming abroad I did not have a strong opinion on where I... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

The Engineering, Technology, and Sciences (ETS) Study Abroad Program in Amsterdam offers STEM students a unique opportunity to gain international experience while remaining on track in their academic fields. Through collaboration with CIEE Amsterdam and Arizona State University (ASU), participants can choose from a broad portfolio of courses in engineering, technology, and sciences, including online options and lab-based classes. This program stands out for its integration of discipline-specific coursework with culturally immersive extracurricular activities. Students are required to enroll in at least one STEM-related course, complemented by electives that highlight Amsterdam’s unique cultural and scientific landscape. The program’s excursions and site visits to local industry leaders and innovative start-ups provide students with hands-on exposure to Amsterdam’s role as a hub for sustainability, green technology, and scientific advancements. 

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

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 CIEE Amsterdam ETS students take 4-5 courses for a total of 12-16 semester credits, choosing from:  

  • CIEE courses  
  • Up to two ASU online courses (max 8 credits) in Session A  
  • One course in the area of engineering, technology, or sciences, offered at CIEE or ASU online, is required 

Program Credit

 Total credit: 12-16 U.S. semester/18-24 quarter credits. 

Course Credit

  • CIEE courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact 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

The academic environment at CIEE Amsterdam offers a focused and immersive experience for students, blending rigorous coursework with hands-on learning opportunities to deepen understanding of both academic subjects and the local culture.  

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 in Amsterdam  

Attendance is considered mandatory in CIEE courses, with absences impacting final grades. This emphasizes the importance of active participation and engagement in the learning process, encouraging students to fully commit to their academic pursuits.  

Overall, the academic environment at CIEE Amsterdam offers a comprehensive and immersive educational experience, combining rigorous coursework with experiential learning opportunities to enrich students' academic and cultural understanding. 

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

Class sizes at CIEE Amsterdam are typically small, fostering a more personalized and engaging learning environment. This setting encourages active participation and facilitates closer interaction with instructors and peers. In contrast, online courses through Arizona State University may vary in size, depending on the specific course and enrollment numbers. This combination of intimate in-person classes and diverse online offerings provides a balanced and comprehensive educational experience. 

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 participation, 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. 

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

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

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Psychology

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Health Professions and Related Programs

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Engineering and Engineering Technologies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

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.

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 Fall 2025 12 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $14,500

*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.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $8,706 **
Housing $5,300 ***
Insurance $194
Visa Fees $0
Total Fees $14,500

Optional Housing

CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.

Select Housing Fee $1,800
Select Plus Housing Fee $2,100

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.

Meals not included in program fee $2,115
International Airfare $1,250 ††
Local Transportation $700 †††
Books & Supplies $200
Visa Fees $200
Personal expenses $280 ††††
Total Costs $4,745

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in residence halls/apartments, you should budget approx. $470 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly. For students in homestays, families typically provide two meals a day, students should budget $735 to purchase groceries for the remaining meals or more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††This would cover six round trips per week from students' housing to the UvA campus/the CIEE classroom

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

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

Kallan Picha

Center Director

Kallan has more than 15 years of experience working in international higher education for both universities and providers and is passionate about expanding opportunities for students to experience the transformational power of studying abroad.

Tamisha Bouknight

Academic Director

Tamisha holds a graduate degrees in Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology and has worked in higher education since 2007.

Cathelijn Kuis

Student Life Director

Cathelijn studied Journalism (BA) and American Studies (MA) at the University of Utrecht.

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 study 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 Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info