University of Wisconsin–Madison

Major Advising Page – Environmental Sciences

As an interdisciplinary cross-college (CALS & L&S) program, students majoring in Environmental Sciences are highly encouraged to complement their coursework with out-of-classroom experiences such as study abroad. Studying abroad exposes students to a wide array of opportunities that will strengthen their understanding of environmental issues throughout the world.

Prospective Environmental Sciences students

If you are interested in majoring in Environmental Sciences and studying abroad, we would encourage you to first explore programs by attending the Study Abroad Fair, visiting the Program Search, and/or scheduling a meeting with a Study Abroad Advisor.

After exploring programs, we would recommend that you schedule an advising appointment with one of our Environmental Sciences advisors to discuss programs of interest, course considerations, and any circumstances related to your goals. Even if you are not ready to declare yet, we encourage you to meet with one of us prior to studying abroad.

Environmental Sciences course considerations abroad

There are many opportunities to complete requirements for the Environmental Sciences major abroad. It is recommended that students complete their math and science (chemistry, biology, physics) requirements at UW-Madison. However, for general education requirements and major core & elective courses, there are opportunities to fulfill requirements abroad. Students should consult with an Environmental Sciences advisor to discuss their interests and goals of studying abroad, especially if they are thinking of studying abroad during a fall or spring semester. Students participating in summer, winter, or spring break programs, including field, global health, or research-based experiences, often do not need to be as concerned with fulfilling requirements or course equivalencies.

Mapping your study abroad experience as an Environmental Sciences major

  • Freshman year
    During freshman year, many Environmental Sciences majors take general education requirements, including intro math and science courses. Some students may study abroad during winter or spring break, especially if they are a part of a First Year Interest Group (FIG) that has a study abroad component.
  • Sophomore year
    Many Environmental Sciences majors take biology and organic chemistry during their sophomore year. If a student has completed their foundational coursework early, they might consider studying abroad during the summer or during one of the breaks. Sophomore year is a good time to research programs and discuss options with your advisor.
  • Junior year
    Junior year is the most popular time for Environmental Science majors to study abroad. If a student would like to study abroad during the fall or spring semester of their junior year, it is advised that they meet with their advisor to discuss course planning.
  • Senior year
    Senior year is also an option for Environmental Sciences majors to study abroad, but it is not as desirable as junior year. If a student is considering applying to medical school, law school, or graduate school for immediate acceptance after graduation, they should consider this when planning a possible study abroad. Students will also need to complete their capstone requirement either the summer preceding senior year or during their senior year, which is another reason to consult with their advisor to discuss options if they plan to study abroad.

Questions to ask

Your Academic Advisor

  • What classes must I take to complete my Environmental Sciences major (breadth/depth, major requirements, etc.)?
  • Which courses should be taken at UW-Madison?
  • When would be the best time to go abroad, given my goals and remaining course requirements?
  • Would a study abroad experience enhance my curricular studies?

Your Study Abroad Advisor

  • What classes can I take abroad?
  • How and when do I select courses for my program?
  • When will I know course equivalents for my program?
  • What is the class structure like abroad?
  • Is there anything I need to tell my academic advisor if I opt for a study abroad experience?

Yourself

  • What are my goals in studying abroad?
  • What are my post-graduation plans?

Hear from students in your major

Explore student blogs and reflections to see how your peers have connected international experiences to their studies. Discover real stories about the skills, challenges, and professional insights gained through our programs.

Identifying programs that are right for you

There are many different study abroad programs available to you. Programs vary in their course offerings, language of instruction, duration, and cost. It is important to consider your goals and priorities in selecting a program. The list below is not exhaustive but is demonstrative of programs that offer courses that work well for Environmental Sciences students.  Courses offered as part of these programs may not be guaranteed to be the best fit for you, depending on where you are in the major, so be sure to talk with your academic advisor during the program selection process.

Africa

Asia

Europe

Latin America

North America

Oceania

International Internships

International internships are another way to gain valuable professional experience abroad while earning course credit. While you can often participate in a part-time internship as part of your study abroad program, it is also possible to participate in an Internship-focused program or a UW Signature Internship.

Internships that might be of interest to you include:

Search all programs

Research all programs using the Program Search page. The above is not an exhaustive list of all programs that will work for Environmental Sciences students. There may be other programs that are a better fit for your individual needs or interests.

Colleges and Schools