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Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal

Ecology + Sustainability

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

12 weeks

Eligibility

2.5 Overall GPA

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Ecology + Sustainability program in Lisbon lasts a full semester and is designed for you to engage with the world's most pressing environmental challenges in a local context. You will enroll in a combination of sustainability- and discipline-focused CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU, to develop your understanding of the ecological, social, economic, and political contexts of environmental sustainability in Lisbon. Enhance your experience with cross-disciplinary co-curricular and extracurricular activities related to sustainability and the environment. Live and learn in Lisbon!

Check out our Ecology + Sustainability Courses

Unique Experiences 

EXPLORE THE MARINE PROTECTED AREA AT AVENCAS BEACH

TO CONDUCT A BIODIVERSITY SURVEY OF THIS ROCKY SHORE ECOSYSTEM AND DISCUSS THE IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTED AREAS IN NATURE CONSERVATION

VISIT THE IBERIAN WOLF CONSERVATION CENTER

TO WITNESS THE WORK BEING DEVELOPED TO REHABILITATE WOLVES THAT WERE VICTIMS OF TRAPS, MISTREATMENT, OR ILLEGAL CAPTIVITY  

VOLUNTEER WITH A LOCAL CONSERVATION NGO

TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARD THE PROTECTION AND RESTORATION OF A LOCAL SAND DUNE ECOSYSTEM AND ENGAGE WITH THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

Experience
  • Lisbon
  • Lisbon

Your Destination 

Lisbon is Portugal’s picturesque, sustainability-focused capital, renowned for its commitment to green energy, urban renewal, and coastal conservation. The city seamlessly blends historic charm with modern eco-friendly initiatives, featuring iconic landmarks like the Belém Tower, the scenic Alfama district, and the innovative MAAT museum. With a mild Mediterranean climate, expansive waterfronts, and a growing emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable urban development, Lisbon provides an inspiring environment for students. Whether you are majoring in environmental science, sustainability, marine studies, business, liberal arts, or urban planning, Lisbon is the ideal destination to study abroad. 

lisbon-students-factory-tour

Program Highlights 

  • Featured Courses: Choose from a set of theoretical and practical Ecology and Sustainability courses that explore today's pressing environmental issues.
  • 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 activities and volunteer work on local farms, natural reserves, field stations, and more while applying real-life solutions to challenges in the fields of energy, waste management, and conservation. 
  • Academic Projects: Enroll in a for-credit internship, directed independent research project, or service-learning to connect with local leaders on environmental protection projects. 
group of students at dolphin sculpture

Excursions & Activities 

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

  • Dolphin watching with marine biologists in the Sado estuary, learning about the protected dolphin population that lives in the bay of Setubal 
  • Embark on a kayaking adventure on the Tagus River during an excursion to Tomar and Constância, renowned for their medieval history, monuments, and diverse ecosystems.  

  • Participate in a cooking class to learn how to bake the famous pastel de nata, Portugal's beloved custard tart and discover how traditional baking methods can be sustainable, supporting local ingredients and reducing waste 

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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Medieval Cities in Portugal: A Journey Through Time

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Top 10 Portuguese Slang Words & Phrases You Must Know

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Heading to Portugal and looking to blend in like a local? Learn these slang words in Portuguese to help you during your Lisbon study abroad experience. Whether you're dining at... keep reading

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January in Lisbon!

By Margaret H.

Inviting, busy, historic, quiet, diverse. When asked about our initial impression of Lisbon, these were some words written on the board. As I sat there, I couldn’t help but ponder... keep reading

Housing

Housing & Meals

Housing

CIEE Lisbon offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to residence halls, we will strive for your accommodation preferences to be met. All housing are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, cafés, and eateries.    

  • Standard Housing: Includes a single room at a homestay or a single room at a student residence hall located under 45 minutes from CIEE Lisbon. Homestays feature a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family. Dorm rooms have private bathrooms, and boast common kitchens, and other common areas, including laundry facilities shared with other students.    
  • Select Housing: Includes a private room with A.C. and an ensuite bathroom at a residence hall located under 20 minutes from CIEE Lisbon. Select housing boasts kitchens, common areas, and laundry facilities shared with other students. 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

Dorms: Meals on own. 

Homestays: Dinner and breakfast included. 

All students will have access to subsidized cafeteria on campus. 

lisbon-housing-25-standard-single

Residence Hall

Standard single room with en suite

lisbon-housing-25-standard-homestay-single

Homestay

Academics

Academics

CIEE Lisbon: Study on the campus of the Universidade Nova de Lisboa School of Social Sciences and Humanities (NOVA FCSH), CIEE’s partner institution, located near trendy cafés, shops, banks, a modest shopping mall, and two metro lines that access the rest of the city. CIEE Lisbon features several offices on campus, namely with academic advising and student life support services, and access to NOVA FCSH’s campus library, study spaces, cafeteria, and coffee shop.

NOVA School of Social Sciences – Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-FCSH): NOVA FCSH is one of the best social sciences schools in Portugal with courses raging from Anthropology, Art History, History, Media Studies, Political Sciences and Sociology (mostly taught in Portuguese). NOVA FCSH courses take place on the same campus as CIEE courses. 

NOVA School of Business – Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-SBE): NOVA SBE is a high-ranking Business School located in Carcavelos, with a commute time from the center of Lisbon of about 1 hour. NOVA SBE is AACSB and EQUIS credited.  

Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas – Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL): ISCTE-IUL offers courses in a wide range of disciplines in social sciences, and business. Its campus is located within a 15-minute commute of CIEE Lisbon. ISCTE-IUL Business School is AACSB and EQUIS credited and ranks very high among business schools in Portugal.  

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 Lisbon Ecology + Sustainability students enroll in 4-6 courses for a total of 12-18 credits per semester. At least one course in the area of ecology or sustainability is required. Students select from:  

  • CIEE courses  
  • Up to two courses at one of our host institutions (either NOVA FCSH, NOVA SBE, or ISCTE-IUL)  
  • Up to two ASU online courses (max 8 total credits), in ASU session B only  

Program Credit

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

Course Credit

  • CIEE 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)  
  • CIEE Service-Learning Project: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 seminar hours (15 seminar hours, 90 service hours)  
  • NOVA FCSH: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 
  • NOVA SBE: 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours 
  • ISCTE-IUL: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 
  • ASU Online Courses: Typically, 3 U.S. semester/4.5-6 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.  

NOVA FCSH, NOVA SBE and ISCTE-IUL courses are usually more lecture-based, and students are expected to work much more independently than in the U.S. This means that more time may be required for studying than students are accustomed to at their home campuses. Both NOVA and ISCTE-IUL value active, intellectual inquiry and exploration, particularly through interdisciplinary study and creative thought. 

Host institution courses typically run from Monday through Friday. NOVA FCSH, NOVA SBE, and ISCTE-IUL fall classes begin in September and end in December, while spring classes begin in February and end by the end of May. Students are required to complete all their academic work before returning to the U.S. 

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

Below is the wording to be used for CIEE and ASU on the program pages. The CD/RDO will be responsible for including host institution class format on the individual location-specific program documents.  

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.  

NOVA FCSH, NOVA SBE and ISCTE-IUL classes: Host institution classes include both local and international students. Section capacities can vary from course to course, ranging from smaller-sized classes (15-20 students) to larger-sized classes (70-100 students). Classes are typically more lecture-based and do not emphasize communication as much as CIEE courses. Classes at the host institutions meet two to four times per week, for anywhere from one to three hours per class session, depending on the course. Each host institution uses its own learning management system. 

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 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.  

NOVA FCSH, NOVA SBE and ISCTE-IUL courses are graded using a 20-point grading scale. Primary assessments may be held as either oral or written examinations, and final exams are typically worth 50% to 70% of the final grade for the 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 Ecology + Sustainability program offers a rich curriculum that investigates the vital links between ecology, sustainability, and environmental policy. Students will explore diverse topics like energy solutions, ecosystem resilience, and the role of social justice in environmental action. With a focus on both theoretical and practical application, these courses provide students with the essential knowledge and multidisciplinary insights to confront the urgent environmental challenges facing our world today. 

CIEE  Courses (in-person)NOVA School of Business - Universidade Nova de Lisboa (NOVA-SBE) Instituto Superior de Ciências do Trabalho e de Empresas - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL) ASU Courses (online)  

Principles of Ecology 

Global Change and The Environment 

Global Environmental Policy 

Sustainable Tourism

Development Economics

Public Economics 

Environmental and Natural Resource Economics

Management Policies for Sustainability

Social Sciences in Humanitarian Action

Tourism & Urban Worlds 

Systems Thinking 

Sustainable Ecosystems 

Basic Energy Science

ISCTE-IUL business courses are mostly taught in English. Students can take up to two courses at ISCTE-IUL. 

ISCTE-IUL courses end later than other classes and exams are held in the month following the end of classes. The exam schedule is not available until after arrival. Center Staff will determine if students can take a proctored exam. Home school approval is required. 

Sample courses in English at ISCTE-IUL Business School (subject to change): 

  • Environmental and Natural Resource Economics: This course explores the economic principles and policies related to the management and conservation of natural resources and the environment.
  • Management Policies for Sustainability: Students learn about strategies and policies that promote sustainable business practices and corporate responsibility.
  • Social Sciences in Humanitarian Action: This course examines the role of social sciences in addressing humanitarian crises and developing effective interventions.
  • Tourism & Urban Worlds: The course focuses on the relationship between tourism and urban development, including the impacts on cities and communities. 

NOVA SBE business courses are mostly taught in English. Students can take up to two courses at NOVA Business School. 

NOVA SBE courses may end one or two weeks after the CIEE program end date. 

Sample courses at NOVA Business School (subject to change): 

  • Development Economics: This course covers economic theories and policies aimed at promoting economic development and reducing poverty in developing countries.
  • Public Economics: Students study the role of government in the economy, including taxation, public expenditure, and the provision of public goods. 

NOVA FCSH courses are typically taught in Portuguese in the Social Sciences and Humanities School. Permission to enroll in NOVA FCSH courses is based on academic background. The final decision rests with the CIEE Center Director and the university. 

Housing will be guaranteed for you until the date of your exam (December for fall and May, early June for spring)  

Sample courses at NOVA FCSH (taught in Portuguese, and subject to change): 

  • Ethnoecology: This course investigates the interactions between human cultures and their natural environments, emphasizing traditional ecological knowledge.
  • Human Ecology: Students explore the relationships between humans and their environments, focusing on ecological and social dimensions.
  • Philosophy of Nature: This course delves into philosophical perspectives on nature, including ethical and metaphysical questions.
  • Sustainable Development: The course examines the principles and practices of sustainable development, aiming to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection.
  • Environment and Biophysical Planning: Students learn about planning and management strategies for sustainable environmental and biophysical systems. 

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
  • Principles of Ecology  
  • Global Change and the Environment
  • Global Environmental Policy
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Urban Ecology
  • Engineering Ethics
  • Culture and Cuisine in Portugal
  • Contemporary Portugal: Politics and Culture
  • Lisbon: City and Architecture
  • Portuguese and Brazilian Cinema
  • The Arts and the Portuguese Empire
  • The European Union: Portugal
  • Cross-Cultural Psychology  
  • Dynamics
  • Social Psychology
  • Business Ethics and Leadership
  • Economics of Wine
  • Intercultural Communication and Leadership
  • International Marketing
  • Management of Outdoor Activities and Sports
  • Strategic Management
  • Semester Portuguese Language, Advanced I
  • Semester Portuguese Language, Advanced II
  • Semester Portuguese Language, Beginning I
  • Semester Portuguese Language, Beginning II
  • Semester Portuguese Language, Intermediate I
  • Semester Portuguese Language, Intermediate II
  • 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

Lisbon is a burgeoning tech hub, home to numerous startups and coworking spaces that foster creativity and collaboration. This city is ideal for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. Beyond work, the city’s beautiful weather, rich culture, and affordable living make it an attractive place to reside. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 12 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

Joana Almeida

Joana Almeida

Center Director

Joana has been working with CIEE Lisbon since 2011. She holds a B.A. in Art History, an M.A. in Social Sciences, and a Ph.D. in Historical Sociology.

Rodrigo Dias

Academic Manager

Rodrigo has been working for CIEE Lisbon since 2021. He holds a bachelor's degree in Asian Studies and a master's degree in Teaching Portuguese as a Foreign/Second Language. He has...

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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