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Freiburg - Environmental Studies & Sustainability
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Academics
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. We offer unique courses that explore environmental studies and sustainability and other topics through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our world-class professors enhance your academic experience and give you new perspectives each day in class. A limited number of course options are available at the prestigious Albert-Ludwigs Universität Freiburg, as well.
You take 15-19 credits per semester. Environmental Studies courses are worth 3 credits each and are taught in English. Language courses are 3 or 4 credits each and are taught in German. Courses are held Monday through Friday.
Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following required and optional components:
- German language course (required, 3 credits; optional extension for 1 additional credit)
- Four consecutive Environmental Studies courses (required, 3 credits each)
- Optional post-program module or research assistantship (3 credits)
Academic Structure
| Language Intensive | German Language intensive course (required, 3 credits) | |
| Module 1 (3 weeks) | Environmental Studies module |
German Language - extension |
|
Module 2 (3 weeks) |
Environmental Studies module | |
| Module 3 (3 weeks) | Environmental Studies module | |
| Module 4 (3 weeks) | Environmental Studies module | |
| Post-Program Options |
Optional Environmental Studies Module One optional course offered at the University (3 credits, additional charge) |
Optional Research Assistantship Research Assistantship with a faculty at the University (2 or 3 credits, additional charge) |
German Language Course
The program begins with orientation and a required three-week intensive German course at the University for 3 credits. You continue your German study for three hours per week during the regular university semester to earn an additional 1 credit of German.
Four consecutive Environmental Studies courses
The Environmental Studies courses are “modules,” where you take one course at a time for three weeks. Courses are taught in English, and most courses are taught by IES Abroad. A limited number of modules may be offered in the Master’s degree program in the Department of Forestry and Ecology Management at the Albert-Ludwigs- Universität Freiburg. Modules at the University are taught at a first-year graduate level but are appropriate for undergraduate IES Abroad students. Tutorial support is available. Students from the same department at Albert-Ludwigs-Universität may enroll in IES Abroad-taught Environmental Studies courses.
Please note that many of the ESS modules utilize Freiburg as a classroom and offer out-of-classroom excursions; these experiential learning opportunities may require additional physical demands. Course syllabi provide more detail on the experiential learning opportunities. Additionally, once on-site, the IES Abroad Freiburg academic advising team can provide more detail as to the physical requirements and expectations of these excursions as you finalize your course selections. For further clarification on course-related physical demands or requests for accommodation, please reach out to your IES Abroad Advisor.
Program Extension Options
Optional Post Program Module
After your program ends, you can spend three weeks furthering your academic experience in Freiburg by participating in an additional 3-credit module in the Department of Forestry and Ecology Management at the University of Freiburg. A separate cost applies and placements are limited. Information about specific post-program modules is available after you arrive in Freiburg.
Research Assistantships
You can apply for a research assistantship to work with a University faculty member on a research topic in the field of Environmental Studies. Assistantships are three to six weeks long and take place after the end of the term. All placements are supervised and offered as academic options earning IES Abroad credit. Students participating in the research assistantship cannot participate in the additional optional module. An additional cost applies. Research topic areas and placements may be limited.
Securing an assistantship is a competitive process and placements are not guaranteed. Placements depend on availability, on a student's background and skills, and on the quality of a student’s CV/résumé. Language requirements may apply. Final placements are determined by an on-site interview.
Examples of assistantships in various departments at the University of Freiburg include:
- Department of Forest Biometry: Focusing on a Forest Resources Inventory, this placement introduces students to forest inventory methods, including the measurement of trees and forest stands. Students may survey with optical and laser instruments; measure Black Forest stands, tree diameters, tree heights, and tree volume; and conduct an analysis of the inventory data.
- Department of Vegetation Science: Students may participate in the current work of various projects such as an overview of the current work in vegetation science, including aims, methods and expected results; development of questionnaires, consultation with Ph.D. students on data analysis and English language, and writing of short reports and literature summaries on selected topics in vegetation science; and participation in excursions in and around Freiburg.
- Institute of Forest Growth: Students may choose a topic of research related to environmental effects on tree growth, including dendroecology, production ecology, and forest management. Students’ tasks may include field work such as the collection of material and field data, and laboratory work such as the measurement of tree-ring parameters, cross-dating, and statistical data analysis.
- Institute of Silviculture: Students may participate in year-ring analysis and near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) with the overall aim to find out if thinning can help to increase drought tolerance of crop trees in stands of Norway spruce (Picea abies). Or students may participate in year-ring analysis of stem discs of spruce trees from a stem density trial in Southern Germany, including cross-dating and identifying drought events of existing year-ring scans using special software for dendroecological analysis. Additionally, students may collect NIRS of wood samples, including both preparation and analysis of wood samples from spruce stem discs.
- Institute of Forest Zoology: Students may study the use of nitrogen in insect nutrition in a study that measures the digestive efficiency of herbivorous lepidopteran larvae.
Courses
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| BL/ES 306 - Ecosystem Management | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| BL/ES 307 - Climate and the Vegetation in the Black Forest and the Swiss Alps | Fall | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| PO/ES/EC 303 - Sustainable Energy: Concepts, Policy, Strategies and Solutions | Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| FO/ES 330 - Sustainable Food & Agriculture | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ES/GE 320 - Communication Strategies for Conservation: Natural and Cultural Heritage Site Interpretation | Spring | English | 3 |
| GE/ES 340 - Geographic Information Systems | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| IB/ES 311 - Multi-Sector Strategies for Sustainability | Fall | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| PH/ES 302 - Ethics and Sustainability | Fall | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ES/PO 315 - Environmental Policy | Fall | English | 3 |
| PO/ES/EC 303 - Sustainable Energy: Concepts, Policy, Strategies and Solutions | Spring | English | 3 |
| Course Name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| US/ES 304 - Freiburg Green City - Social, Ecological, and Economical Aspects of Sustainability | Fall, Spring | English | 3 |
| US/ES 313 - Sustainable Urban Design | Spring | English | 3 |
Partner Institution(s)
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität
One of the oldest and most respected universities, the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg consistently ranks as one of the top institutions of higher education in the country.
German Language Courses
The university does not provide syllabi for their German language program. They teach Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced language courses according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Language (CEFR). You can download a description of CEFR language levels here:
Field Trips & Events
In addition to your course-related trips, you also have the opportunity to participate in an optional recreational field trip. You share the cost of this field trip with IES Abroad. In past terms, the destination was:
Vosges Mountains
2 Days | Fall & Spring
Travel to France and explore the Vosges Mountains. Hike up and down haut Vosges, enjoy fantastic views of the Rhine River valley, try out the real pain au chocolate with a café au lait. You’ll stay overnight in an alpine hut, and dine on delicious Alsatian food with wine from the region. This field trip is optional and requires an additional cost.
IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Course-Related Trips
Even though your adventure starts in Freiburg, our course-related trips take you to other great destinations in Germany and beyond to further your learning. Course-related trips are included in the program fee. During these trips, you will gather data and participate in academic research. Destinations may include:
Black Forest
3-5 Days | Fall & Spring
Study the flora and fauna on a series of day trips through this famous forest, located just outside of Freiburg. Length of trip varies with course enrollment.
Swiss Alps
3 Days | Fall & Spring
Hike through the Swiss Alps as you study forest management, forest education, climate, and regional climate, and their impact on vegetation.
Rhine River Valley
1 Day | Fall & Spring
Explore the ecology of this fertile river valley, learn about waterway management, and explore the floodplains of the Rhine River. You’ll also walk across the Rhine into bordering France.
Please note: University courses also include trips to locations in and around Freiburg to explore topics relevant to your studies.
Daily Life
Part of making you feel at home in Freiburg is doing our best to help you feel safe and cared for. Whether it’s the orientation program that prepares you for what’s ahead, your housing that is well-located and comfortable, or the field trips that take you to places off the beaten path—we’re all about our student services.
Orientation
Our orientation introduces you to the IES Abroad Freiburg staff, your fellow students, and the city of Freiburg . Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to help you prepare for your IES Abroad experience. Orientation continues in the city of Freiburg. During on-site orientation you also take German language for three credits. You have the option to continue your German course throughout the term for one additional credit.
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins before you arrive and continues through the semester with activities focusing on academic and cultural adjustment. Detailed information about housing, public transportation, culture, health and safety, and other important topics are also covered.
Housing
We want to make sure that your greatest challenge is deciding which landmarks to see first or discovering the best café—not finding a place to live where you feel comfortable. We do our best to locate housing that is reflective of how the local students are living. Our goal is that when you leave Freiburg, it will feel like home.
Shared University Apartment – You live in a single or double room in a coed suite with a shared kitchen and bath. Suites are shared with German and international students, and have Internet access.
Single Studio Apartment – You will have your own studio apartment with a single bath and pantry kitchen. Internet is also provided. The complex houses other German and international students. Spots are limited and may include additional fees.
Students usually prepare meals in their housing or dine in Freiburg’s affordable student cafeterias. Meals are not included in the program fee.
Extracurricular Activities & Cultural Events
Redefine the way you live and learn in Freiburg through our cultural events, such as:
- Tour of the Soccer Stadium. with its impressive photovoltaic roof
- Tour of the Green District of Vauban
- Visit to the Ökostation - a center for heightening environmental awareness
University Events and Cultural Activities
A number of events and activities are available to you at the Albert-Ludwigs- Universität Freiburg, such as sports teams, social clubs, and partially-subsidized trips to destinations in Germany, France, and Switzerland.
Language Partners
IES Abroad staff in Freiburg can assist you in finding a German language “tandem” partner, with whom you can practice German. Having a language partner in Freiburg also gives you unique insight into local student life.
Get to Know Your New City
Appreciate the Architecture
Freiburg’s architecture takes in German, Austrian, French, and Swiss influences, which all compete for attention in the city’s colorful buildings.
(Don't) Step in the Bächle
The narrow channels of water that run through the streets of old Freiburg are one of this city’s most characteristic and charming features.
Hike, Cycle, & Climb the Black Forest
Germany’s massive, mountainous, and densely-forested area is right in Freiburg’s back yard.
Pack a Picnic
Grab a Black Forest ham sandwich and a bottle of fresh apple juice from the Saturday market, find the perfect spot, and enjoy. Studying in the sunniest spot in Germany has its advantages!
Take in the Views from the Schauinsland
A rigorous hike or an easy cable car will take you to the top of this hill, offering glorious views of the city, the nearby Vosges Mountains, and the Black Forest.
Program Cost
Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.
Scholarships & Aid
Featured Scholarships
Adelyn Dougherty Leander Need-Based Urban Issues Scholarship
Open to students who have an interest in urban studies (a major in urban studies is not required).
Black Forest Environmental Studies Scholarship for Liberal Arts Students
The Black Forest Environmental Studies Scholarship is awarded to students studying on the Freiburg Environmental Studies & Sustainability program who are interested in Environmental Studies, and are majoring in the liberal arts fields of economics, urban studies, international business/affairs/relations, humanities, public policy, political science, philosophy, or geography.
Use our budget worksheet to calculate your costs
$6+ Million in Scholarships & Aid
Our Center
While in Freiburg, we want to ensure you have every opportunity to immerse yourself in new experiences. That’s why our IES Abroad Freiburg staff is committed to providing outstanding academic and student support services. We take care of the details, so you can soak up every moment of your Freiburg experience.
Located in the heart of beautiful Freiburg, the IES Abroad Center is within easy walking distance of Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, the Freiburg Theater, and the main shopping district. And, of course, the Center (and all of Freiburg) is very close to the Black Forest.
Our Center is your connection point for all things IES Abroad.
- Take your IES Abroad courses in the Center’s classrooms
- Meet with staff in their offices
- Relax with friends or study in the student lounge
- Make use of the library
Other features include WiFi, printer access, and photocopier/scanner.
Our Staff
Merle Peitsmeyer
Center Director
Merle Peitsmeyer has worked in multiple capacities at IES Abroad since 2002. Among her many accomplishments, Merle was instrumental in designing our Environment Studies & Science academic program, in addition to managing IES Abroad’s relationship with Universität Freiburg, which allows our students the opportunity to enroll in courses with local students in a variety of disciplines. She studied abroad at a young age in Brazil and Southern California, and carried out various internships in the US, which ignited her passion for international education. Merle is an alumna of the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg with a degree in Political Science and English.
IES Abroad Freiburg Staff
Dr. Işık Gurleyen
Academic Dean
Dr. Karin Hunn
Field Study Manager
Katie Kraker
Director of Housing & Student Affairs
Andrea Lauckner
Customized Programs & Internships Manager
Karin Thomas
Student Affairs Director
Health & Safety
With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter what time zone you’re in.
In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—such as social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel only, and apartment or residence hall housing (no homestays) that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary.
How We Support You
We plan for "what if" so that you don't have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Learn more about the support you can expect to receive on our programs, including:
- International health insurance through CISI in the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional
- 24/7 emergency support whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city
- Location-specific health and safety information presented at orienation by on-site staff
- TripTracker system allowing you to share independent travel plans in case you need to be contacted swiftly in a crisis
- A mandatory cell phone policy so that you can be contacted locally and receive any emergency updates via call or text
- Crisis drills so that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise
- And more!
Health & Safety Resources
You safety begins with being accurately informed from the moment you're considering study abroad through to the day you return home.
Take note of ways you can maintain your health and stay safe abroad while reviewing our resources, including:
- IES Abroad MAP for Student Health, Safety & Crisis Management
- Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
- IES Abroad Student Blogs on Safety and Mental Health
- And more!
Fall 2021
We all know that Fall 2021 is going to look a bit different from other study abroad terms, but that doesn’t mean it still won’t be the most incredible semester of your life!
We’re working hard to keep you safe and well, so you can focus on what you came to do—live and learn abroad (and have some fun along the way!). Below is a summary of the main tweaks to the program this semester, which may be updated as more details become known. You can learn even more about our measures for all programs on our Fall 2021 Health & Safety page.
Academics & Partner Universities
From courses taught by world-class IES Abroad faculty at our Center to courses taught at our local partner universities, know that you’ll be learning from the best of the best this fall.
IES Abroad Courses Available in Fall 2021:
- ES/PH302 Ethics and Sustainability
- ES/US304 Freiburg Green City: Social, Ecological, and Economic Aspects of Sustainability
- ES305 Technology of Renewable Energies
- ES/BL306 Ecosystem Management
- ES/BL307 Climate & Vegetation in the Black Forest and Swiss Alps
- ES/IB311 Multi-Sector Strategies for Sustainability
- ES/PO315 Environmental Policy
- ES/FO325 Sustainable Food & Agriculture
- ES/GE340 Geographic Information Systems
Explore all the course options from our partner universities and find IES Abroad course syllabi on the “Academics” tab.
Health & Safety Protocols
We’re making sure that your learning experience is a safe one so you can focus on the topic at hand. So, to enhance effective social/physical distancing, IES Abroad is taking proactive measures in the classroom, including:
- limiting class enrollment sizes limitations
- adjusting space layout and room choice
- and promoting student/faculty use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Learn more about our health and safety measures for Fall 2021.
Housing
You’ll stay in a clean, comfortable apartment where we’ve taken the utmost safety measures, including single occupancy rooms. At this time, homestays will not be offered through IES Abroad programs this fall. Learn more about the overarching housing policies for Fall 2021.
Field Trips
Across all IES Abroad programs, field trips will stay local and regional this fall. Your fields trips will all take place in Germany, which means you’ll get fully immersed in the culture(s) you came for! Possible trips include:
- Black Forest Hike
- Rhine River Valley
- Lake Constance
- Castle Visit
- Heidelberg
Our Center
Our Center in Freiburg is your go-to spot for classes, student services, and information. Serving as your campus away from campus, you can feel safe going to class or checking in with an IES Abroad staff member because, at a minimum, IES Abroad Centers will undergo daily cleaning and disinfection by professional cleaning services.
Cost
Cost details for Fall 2021 can be found on the Cost tab. Be sure to click through the linked total to view a thorough cost breakdown PDF. Consider those prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other factors.
Go Ahead & Get Started…With a Refund Policy that has your Back
As a mission-driven, not-for-profit, we are guided by two priorities as we navigate Fall 2021: to leave the door open for your opportunity to study abroad, and to strive to keep you safe and healthy. So, what’s our advice? Give yourself the chance to have an incredible adventure—even if it’s a bit different than planned!—and know we’re right alongside you as the details unfold.
And thanks to our Fall 2021 Refund Policy, there’s no commitment just yet. What’s more, once you start an application, you’ll be in the loop and hear directly from us if any changes are made to your program.
Spring 2022
Looking ahead to Spring 2022, there will likely be some aspects of the pandemic that we are still navigating—and that’s okay! Program details may need to pivot as conditions shift, but throughout that experience our commitment to do right by you will guide the way. While it might look different from other study abroad terms, that doesn’t mean Spring 2022 won’t be the most incredible semester of your life!
We’re working hard to keep you safe and well, so you can focus on what you came to do—live, learn, and have some fun abroad. Below is a summary of the main tweaks to the program this semester, which may be updated as more details become known. You can learn even more about our measures for all programs on our Spring 2022 Health & Safety page.
Academics & Partner Universities
From courses taught by world-class IES Abroad faculty at our Center to courses taught at our local partner universities, know that you’ll be learning from the best of the best this spring. The following courses will be offered in Spring 2022. You can find syllabi for them on the “Academics” tab.
- ES/EC 303 Sustainable Energy: Concepts, Policy, Strategies and Solutions
- ES/US 304 Freiburg Green City - Social, Ecological, and Economical Aspects of Sustainability
- ES/BL 306 Ecosystem Management
- ES/BL 307 Climate & Vegetation in the Black Forest and Swiss Alps
- ES/GE 320 Communication Strategies for Conservation: Natural and Cultural Heritage Site Interpretation
- ES/FO 330 Sustainable Food & Agriculture
- ES/GE 340 Geographic Information Systems
- ES/SO 360 Sustainable World and Production: Rethinking the City
Health & Safety Protocols
We’re making sure that your learning experience is a safe one so you can focus on the topic at hand. IES Abroad is taking proactive measures based on the local health and safety guidelines of your study abroad location. As more information for Freiburg becomes available, we will provide updates here and in your predeparture guide, which you’ll gain access to after applying. In the meantime, review safety measures we have taken with students this fall, some of which may extend into your experience.
- limiting class enrollment sizes
- adjusting space layout and room choice
- and promoting student/faculty use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
In response to COVID-19, enhanced safety guidelines will be implemented this year—previous examples include social distancing and personal protective equipment (PPE) in on-site classes, in-country field trips and travel, and apartment or residence hall housing rather than homestays that ensures proper space should self-quarantining be necessary. These may change by term, so be sure to check back.
Many countries are requiring proof of vaccination to access public and private spaces, such as restaurants, libraries, museums, festivals, sporting events, and other indoor spaces or gatherings of people. In some cases, students will be required to obtain a “Green Pass” or other health pass as official proof of vaccination, which is required upon entry to many locations. We will provide more information about your host country’s entry and green pass requirements prior to your departure through the Predeparture Information and virtual orientation sessions.
We know stepping into the unknown is part of your study abroad experience but know that you’re never alone and we’ll always have your back.
Housing
You’ll stay in a clean, comfortable housing where we’ve taken the utmost safety measures, including single occupancy rooms as needed. Learn more about the overarching housing policies for Spring 2022.
Field Trips
So much of the study abroad learning experience happens outside of the classroom. Our field trips and course-related excursions help you explore the ins and outs of your city and local region, adding real-life context to what you’ve read about in textbooks for years. Possible trips include:
- Black Forest Hike
- Rhine River Valley
- Lake Constance
- Castle Visit
- Heidelberg
Our Center
Our Center in Freiburg is your go-to spot for classes, student services, and information. Serving as your campus away from campus, you can feel safe going to class or checking in with an IES Abroad staff member because, at a minimum, IES Abroad Centers will undergo daily cleaning and disinfection by professional cleaning services.
Cost
Cost details for Spring 2022 can be found on the “Cost” tab. Be sure to click through the linked total to view a thorough cost-breakdown PDF. Consider those prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your study abroad office to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your home school policies, and other considerations.
Go Ahead & Get Started…With a Refund Policy that has your Back
As a mission-driven, not-for-profit, we are guided by two priorities as we navigate Spring 2022: to leave the door open for your opportunity to study abroad, and to strive to keep you safe and healthy. So, what’s our advice? Give yourself the chance to have an incredible adventure—even if it’s a bit different than planned!—and know we’re right alongside you as the details unfold.
And thanks to our Spring 2022 Refund Policy, there’s no commitment just yet. What’s more, once you start an application, you’ll be in the loop and hear directly from us if any changes are made to your program.
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