Sustainable Development in Scandinavia

Discover how two of the world’s most innovative and eco-conscious nations are shaping a sustainable future.

Our program, Sustainable Development in Scandinavia, will take you to the heart of Scandinavia — Sweden and Denmark — where cutting-edge environmental policies, green cities, and forward-thinking communities are a way of life.

From the urban resilience of Copenhagen, to the renewable energy hub of Stockholm, both global leaders in climate adaptation; from the innovative sustainable production model at Volvo’s climate-neutral factory in Gothenburg, to IKEA’s democratic design and circular production efforts in Älmhult, this program offers a rare opportunity to learn from countries that aren't just talking about sustainability — they're living it!

Join us for an immersive study abroad experience designed for students passionate about sustainability across multiple disciplines.

Gain practical knowledge, a historical and global perspective, and intercultural competence through site visits, hands-on workshops, and expert lectures. Take the next step in becoming a leader in the global movement toward a sustainable world!

This program is perfect for those studying or interested in:

• Sustainable Environmental, Health, and Social Policy: Investigate the interconnectedness of environmental protection, public health outcomes, and equitable social systems through public policy.
• Sustainable Business: Discover how companies can thrive financially while minimizing their environmental impact and maximizing their social benefit through ethical supply chains, sustainable production, and corporate social responsibility.
• Sustainable Urban Development: Examine the challenges and innovations in creating resilient, livable, and low-impact cities. Focus on green infrastructure, sustainable transportation, and smart growth strategies.
• Engineering: Learn about how engineering principles are being used in sustainable design, renewable energy systems, efficient resource management, and environmentally sound infrastructure projects.

Open to all undergraduate and graduate students

Earn 6-7 credits in HASS or Essential Education (Intercultural Competency, Essential Education Experience (E³), & Activities for Well-being and Success)

Travel Dates: May 22 – June 11

Course Dates: May 4 – June 19 (online May 4 – 21 & June 12- 19)

Application Deadline: March 6, 2026

Deposit Deadline: March 6, 2026

Courses

All students should enroll in both SS3920 and SS4xxx and are encouraged to take PE1150. 

SS3920 Sustainability in Industrial History (3 credits)
Instructor: Sweitz
Essential Education Intercultural Competency Course / HASS
This is an interdisciplinary exploration of the complex, long-term relationship between human industrial activity and the environment, with a focus on sustainability. Students will analyze how industrial processes have both shaped and been shaped by ecological systems over time, utilizing the unique historical context of Scandinavia as a comparative case study for understanding these processes. The course will provide a historic perspective on socio-ecological sustainability issues, tracing their evolution up to contemporary sustainability challenges and innovative practices.

SS4xxx Sustainable Development in Practice (3 credits)
Instructor: Sjöholm
Essential Education Experience (E³) / HASS
The primary focus of this course is to understand the various aspects of sustainable development. We will explore the challenges of environmental sustainability and social inclusion in the context of global economic growth, focusing on the relationship between the economy and the environment and on the sustainability of continuous economic growth. The course will also examine the welfare aspects of sustainable economic development, including how public policy tools can be used to counter economic and social inequality. We will talk with policymakers and industry experts to explore, analyze, and understand how sustainable development is applied in real-world solutions.

PE1150 Lifetime Activities (1 credit)
Instructors: Sweitz and Sjöholm
Essential Education Activities for Well-being and Success / HASS
This course is an eclectic and gratifying introduction to lifelong wellness habits for enhanced physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Students will explore key Scandinavian concepts like friluftsliv (outdoor life), lagom (balance), and hygge/mysig (contented living) in combination with recreational activities. Students will hike on the island of Grinda in the Swedish Archipelago, practice yoga in Stockholm, engage in forest bathing in the woods of Småland, bicycle through the historic streets of Copenhagen, and perform urban hygge/mysig hiking (with fika!) in Gothenburg. All activities will teach students about the connection between mindfulness, physical health, and being truly present in one’s environment. 

Itinerary

Students are responsible for purchasing their own airline ticket to Copenhagen and should arrive on May 22, 2026. Faculty will assist students with coordinating their flight itineraries predeparture. Program leaders will greet students at the airport and escort them directly to our first accommodation.

Costs

We are currently working with the university administration on the final program cost. We will provide an update shortly. Please check back soon!

Students will pay a non-refundable deposit of $1000 to hold their spot in the program. A waiting list will be created for students beyond the program cap of 16 students. Students will register for Summer Track A courses and will pay a “lab fee,” that minus the deposit, will cover the program fee.