Aquatic Ecosystems & Sustainability
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Real-World Experience
Conduct field and lab work, collect data on plant and animal species, and assess threats to marine ecosystems. Conduct research for a sustainability challenge Project and come home ready to contribute to other environmental initiatives.
Credentials for Your Future
Topics for your college essays, experience to inform your future career, a portfolio of work to showcase your sustainability research and reflections, and service-learning hours documenting your engagement with the community.
Life Skills and New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and friends of different backgrounds from across the U.S.
45
Hours of Expert Instruction
12
Hours of Service-Learning in the Community
1
Life-Changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Portugal, one of the oldest countries in Europe and a paradise for sea lovers.
With half of its territory bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is a prime location to study aquatic ecosystems. It is home to the largest fully protected marine reserve in Europe and is packed with wildlife-filled wetlands, sandy beaches, and dramatic riverways.
Portugal is also full of rich history. When you are not enjoying its natural landscapes and biodiversity, you can lose yourself in incredible architecture, medieval castles, and numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is more ancient than Rome. Here, you’ll love riding the old cable cars up the steep hills, admiring the buildings covered in tiles of countless colors and patterns, and basking in the spectacular views of the vibrant city.
Magical Portugal—with its sunny cities, sea breezes, beautiful beaches, friendly people, and delicious food—awaits you!
Cultural Awareness
ºÚÁÏÍø911wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local ºÚÁÏÍø911staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Lisbon.
Weekly Learning Goals
Sample Activities
Just Imagine All the Fun You’ll Have!
- Grab your snorkeling gear and dive into the turquoise waters of Arrábida Natural Park. Encounter schools of fish, octopuses, sea cucumbers, and maybe even dolphins!
- Travel to Tomar and tour the 12th century castle and convent constructed by the Knights Templar. Step into the Middle Ages and feel the power of the Knights Templar, protecting the Holy Grail.
- Pop up and catch your first wave in the surf capital of Europe—don’t worry, a pro surf coach will teach you.
- Kayak down the magnificent Tagus River, teeming with fauna, to a breathtaking medieval castle atop an islet.
- Learn from a Portuguese chef how to make caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) and bring the recipe home. 
Please note activities are based on past programs and 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.
Our last days
It is hard to describe what these last few days have felt like for our student. In one sense it feels like we have been here forever— our group is... keep reading
Tomar, Portugal - Portal to the Past
“Everyone put down your things, we have to leave NOW!!!†Chaos. Then the sound of 70 some people- the majority teenagers- running out of a luxury hotel lobby as quickly as possible...
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. 
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our  ³§³¦³ó´Ç±ô²¹°ù²õ³ó¾±±è p²¹²µ±ð.
- This program involves engaging in moderate- to high-intensity physical activities, such as hiking, boating and snorkeling. Ability to swim is not required but strongly encouraged to enjoy the program and location at its fullest.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations or contact us.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
---|---|---|---|---|
Program Summer Session I 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $5,950 | |
Program Summer Session II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $5,950 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Joana Almeida
Center Director
Joana has been working with ºÚÁÏÍø911Lisbon since 2011. She holds a B.A. in Art History, an M.A. in Social Sciences, and a Ph.D. in Historical Sociology.
Get Started
1
Start an Application
You're on step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!
2
Connect with your Teachers or Parents
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact Us
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about enrolling.