What is unique about this program?

Explore some of the world’s most productive, unique, and vulnerable landscapes to witness how climate change impacts regions differently and how communities are responding to the climate crisis. In four profoundly different cultural, historical, and socio-ecological contexts, three of which have UNESCO World Heritage status, you will analyze the challenges of working toward more equitable food, water, and energy systems. Examine the problems and possible solutions for environmental justice with researchers, farmers, renewable energy producers, water managers, activists, non-governmental organizations, government officials, and policymakers.

What is unique about these locations?

In Ecuador, you will explore climate resilience strategies around the capital city of Quito and travel to the Galapagos Islands to learn about the threats of climate change and efforts to conserve unique island and marine ecosystems. In Morocco, you will meet farmers striving to preserve and maintain their agricultural and water management practices and understand how the country, which has few fossil fuels, is navigating the transition to renewable energy. In Nepal, you will witness the accelerating impacts of climate change on high mountain ecosystems and explore numerous initiatives to tackle these challenges. Interact with renowned experts, see protected wildlife in Chitwan National Park, participate in an overnight trek to Kapuche Glacier Lake, and learn about successful community forest conservation initiatives.

• Meet farmers, water and energy providers, land managers, and communities in California coping with the impacts of climate change and fighting for social change.
• Experience the extraordinary biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands and learn about the ongoing efforts to protect them.
• See how agriculture and energy policy impact Indigenous and local communities in drought-prone Morocco.
• Examine the challenges surrounding sustainable development, community-managed forests, and the linkages between food, water, and energy systems in Nepal.

Things to consider before applying

• Review the information on the Education Abroad Office’s Get Started page for important considerations on academics and finances, and a guide to next steps
• Find answers on the Education Abroad FAQ and resource pages for Cornell study abroad policy, health, and safety updates
• Still have questions?  Visit the Get Advice page and learn how to connect with an Education Abroad Advisors
• Want to keep up to date with Cornellians Abroad? Follow Education Abroad on social media, @cornelliansabroad, @CornellEducationAbroad

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. You may complete both steps simultaneously, but the Cornell approval process must be complete before your program advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit any approval or nomination to the program.

1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page.
2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. (Note: This deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval. Many programs fill by rolling admission.)