Sustainable Smart Cities
Your Sustainable Smart Cites program in Seoul lasts a full semester and provides an in-depth look at how South Korea'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 Seoul 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 Seoul!
Unique Experiences
TOUR HIGH-TECH GREEN BUILDINGS
TO SEE ENERGY-SAVING TECHNOLOGIES, SOLAR PANELS, AND SMART SYSTEMS IN ACTION AT LANDMARKS LIKE DONGDAEMUN DESIGN PLAZA
EXPLORE SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS ON NAMI ISLAND
TO DISCOVER CREATIVE RECYCLING INITIATIVES AND ECO-FRIENDLY DEVELOPMENT WHILE TOURING PARKS AND HISTORICAL SITES
EXPERIENCE URBAN FARMING IN SEOUL’S COMMUNITY GARDENS
TO LEARN HANDS-ON ABOUT SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE, RECYCLING, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF LOCAL FOOD PRODUCTION
Your Destination
Seoul is a sustainable smart city known for its cutting-edge technology, renewable energy initiatives, and efficient public transport systems. The city integrates smart solutions, eco-friendly architecture, and green spaces to enhance urban living. Students can explore iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Namsan Tower, vibrant neighborhoods such as Gangnam, and a thriving innovation and startup scene. Whether you are studying environmental science, business, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Seoul offers a dynamic and inspiring study abroad experience.
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.
Excursions & Activities
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Seoul will open doors for you to explore South Korea’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:
- Explore Seoul Forest, a green park with eco-friendly water systems and smart forest management
- Visit Songdo International Business District, a sustainable city outside Seoul with energy-efficient buildings, renewable energy systems, and smart homes
- Plog along the Han River and have a picnic with Seoulmates (local buddy students)
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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If you're curious about the difficulty of college courses in South Korea, as well as course planning and advice, then this article is for you. In this blog, I delve into my courses at Yonsei University and offer helpful advice for course planning—tune in to learn more!
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Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Seoul offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From residence hall 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 double occupancy in a shared room with ensuite toilet and shower in a dormitory or residence hall on/off campus, within a 30-minute commute.
Select Plus Housing: Includes a single occupancy with ensuite toilet and shower in a shared apartment or residence hall off campus. Select Plus Housing offers easy access to the entire city, including the campus, within a 30- to 40-minute commute by public subway. Select Plus 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 are responsible for purchasing and/or preparing their own meals.
Academics
CIEE Seoul: Study in Seoul, a dynamic metropolis where tradition meets cutting-edge innovation. Explore ancient palaces, savor authentic Korean cuisine, and experience the vibrant culture that makes Seoul an unforgettable destination.
Hanyang University (HYU): Hanyang University, established in 1939, is a prestigious private institution in South Korea. Ranked 6th nationally and 164th globally according to the QS World University Rankings, the university boasts a distinguished faculty holding Ph.D.'s and master’s degrees from leading institutions worldwide. The diverse academic staff teach courses in both English and Korean. With a student population exceeding 37,000, Hanyang University is located on a large, vibrant campus in the heart of downtown Seoul.
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.
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) | Hanyang University (HYU) | ASU Courses (online) |
|---|---|---|
Building Sustainable Cities Sustainable Development in the 21st Century Business & Sustainability Engineering, Sustainability & Society Sustainable Tourism | Waste Management Basic Reservoir Geomechanics Soil Environment Mineral Economic Evaluation Drilling Engineering | Introduction to Sustainability Sustainable World Sustainable Energy Technology and Systems Pathways to Sustainability |
Academic Projects
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Social Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Health Professions and Related Programs
Languages and Cultural Studies
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Psychology
Hanyang University
Not all courses are offered every semester, and some courses have prerequisites. Typically, the first course in a series will be offered in spring, with the next step in the course series offered in the fall, in line with the Korean school year which begins in March. To get an idea of what will be available in any given semester, consult the online catalog from the desired semester in the previous year. A final list of courses and syllabi for the term will be made available during the course enrollment process. To see a list of courses, please visit the Hanyang University site and click first on the American flag to see the page in English, then on “course catalog.”
The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of English-language course offerings from Hanyang University and is subject to change. In some cases, prior background knowledge or prerequisites may be required to enroll in a class.
Sample courses:
- Mineral Economic Evaluation
- This course explores the economic aspects of mineral resources, focusing on sustainable extraction and resource management critical for the development of smart cities.
- Energy Engineering Thermodynamics
- This course delves into energy systems and thermodynamics, providing foundational knowledge for designing energy-efficient technologies essential for sustainable urban infrastructure.
- Waste Management
- This course focuses on effective waste management practices, essential for minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainability within urban communities.
- Basic Reservoir Geomechanics
- This course addresses the geomechanical principles of reservoir management, offering insights into the sustainable extraction and use of energy resources in urban areas.
- Soil Environment
- This course examines the relationship between soil and environmental health, which is crucial for sustainable urban planning and ensuring a balanced ecosystem in smart cities.
Other Sample Courses Offered at HYU:
- Principles of Architectural Representation
- Design Fundamentals 1 & 2
- Fundamentals of Computational Media Design
- History of Korean Architecture
- Introduction to Engineering Design
- Software Design Programming
- Discrete Mathematics
- System programming
- Numerical Analysis
- Strategic Marketing & Case Studies
- Behavioral Economics for Business Strategies
- Consumer Behavior and Content Creation
- Macroeconomics
- Digital Marketing
- Culture of Korea and Korea Wave
- History of Korean Cinema
- Theories of Mass Communications
- Animal Ethics
- Aesthetic Awareness in the Modern World
- Civil Society and Social Movements
- Ancient History of Korea
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
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.
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
The work scene in Seoul is fast-paced, with high-tech offices, collaborative spaces, and a strong focus on teamwork and innovation. It thrives amidst the city's vibrant street culture and bustling urban life, offering a dynamic environment for professionals across various sectors.
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
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics in Scotland, China, and more.
Finance
Study global markets, financial systems, and cross-border investment strategies in international firms, banks, and companies.
Government and Public Administration
Gain insight into global policy-making, diplomatic relations, and governance practices in agencies, nonprofits, and firms.
Information Technology
Explore diverse tech environments, cutting-edge innovation, and emerging technologies in South Korea, Spain, and more.
Marketing, Sales and Service
Explore global market dynamics, cross-cultural consumer engagement, and sales techniques in firms, agencies, and companies.
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 & 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.
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 16 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 $50
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.
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
Our Staff
Teddy Choi
Senior Program Manager
Teddy’s passion and love of international education was driven by his life-changing study abroad experience in the US. He tries to go the extra mile for every single student to...
Get Started
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Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
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Contact CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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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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