Known for taking the lead in the development of eco-friendly technologies and architecture, Freiburg attracts top researchers and environmental organizations from around the world. This English-taught program allows you to explore topics in disciplines like Environmental Studies, Forest Ecology, and Sustainability while living in Freiburg, located near the beautiful Black Forest and Rhine River Valley.
Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
The environmental movement took root in Freiburg long ago—and now it’s a way of life. Known for taking the lead in the development of eco-friendly technologies and architecture, Freiburg also attracts researchers and environmental organizations from around the world. Come study Freiburg’s many unique contributions to this important movement.
In this post, I talk about a truly average day in my life including class, a group run, and a movie night with my friends!
You'll live in a private single-occupancy room in a coed suite with a shared kitchen and bath. Suites are shared with German and international students, and have Internet access.
Students usually prepare meals at home or dine in Freiburg’s affordable student cafeterias. Meals are not included in the program fee.
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—some with field study opportunities—that explore environmental studies, 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.
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.
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:
Academic Structure
Language Intensive
Module 1 (3 weeks)
Module 2 (3 weeks)
Module 3 (3 weeks)
Module 4 (3 weeks)
Post-Program Options
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.
Field Study
Several of our courses offer field study opportunities, which allow you to go beyond the classroom and take a hands-on approach to learning about the environment and sustainability. Through these field studies, you will get to know many local organizations, sustainable farms, and neighborhoods in the region. Some of these field studies will even take you to completely new landscapes, such as the Swiss Alps!
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.
| 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 |
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.
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:
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
Even though your adventure starts in Freiburg, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Study the flora and fauna on a series of day trips hiking through this famous forest, located just outside of Freiburg.
Travel to France and explore the Vosges Mountains. Hike up and down haut Vosges, enjoy fantastic views of the Rhine River valley, and try out the real pain au chocolate. You'll stay overnight in an alpine hut and dine on delicious Alsatian food and wine.
Hike through the Swiss Alps as you study forest management, forest education, climate, regional climate, and the impact on vegetation.
We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.
The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.
The IES Abroad Freiburg Center is located at the heart of the city. Nearby you’ll find notable landmarks like Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, the Freiburg Theater, and the main shopping district. With classrooms and student lounging space, the Center is your study abroad hub.
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 which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" 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.
NOTE: If you choose to take Partner University Courses, your program's end date will be different:
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