Earth & Environmental Science in the Alps with Penn University

Explore the Alps through hands-on fieldwork, cultural immersion, and environmental science in one unforgettable summer course.

Dates & Fees
  • Cost: From $8,362
  • Ages: 18+
  • Dates: August 11 - 23 Pre-program coursework: May–July 2025 (remote, online)
  • Location: Switzerland and Northern Italy
  • Duration: 12 days

Summary

Penn-in-the-Alps is a 12-day field-based summer program from the University of Pennsylvania that brings students into the heart of the European Alps in Switzerland and Northern Italy. Guided by expert faculty, students investigate the geology, ecology, and culture of Alpine regions through direct observation, site visits, and guided hikes.

The program blends academic rigour with outdoor adventure, giving students firsthand insight into climate change, biodiversity, and human impact on mountainous ecosystems. With pre-program online coursework and immersive in-country learning, this course offers a unique opportunity to gain academic credit while exploring one of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes.

Program Features

  • Study Alpine ecosystems through real-world fieldwork
  • explore Switzerland and Italy with an expert geoscientist
  • visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cultural landmarks
  • hike through glaciers, valleys, and geological monuments
  • engage in pre-program academic preparation and in-field presentations.

What's Included?

  • All tuition and course materials
  • Half-board accommodation (breakfasts and dinners)
  • Guided excursions and cultural site visits
  • Program orientation and academic support
  • Pre-departure academic coursework and guidance.

More Information

  • Academics
  • Extracurriculars
  • Accommodation

Academics

Open to both undergraduates from the University of Pennsylvania and students from other universities who are at least 18 years old and have an interest in environmental science, geology, or related fields. Participants must be physically fit for daily mountain hikes and willing to engage in pre-program academic work from May to July before the 12-day field course in Switzerland and Italy.

Extracurriculars

Outside of structured fieldwork projects, students participate in cultural excursions, visit historic and natural landmarks, and engage with local experts and communities to enhance their cross-cultural understanding.

Accommodation

Students stay in a variety of hotels, hostels, and mountain cabins across Switzerland and Italy, with breakfasts and dinners included; housing is arranged and included in the program fee.


Program Campuses

Bellinzona

The Engadine

Valtellina

Zurich

Key Information
Dates & Fees
  • Cost: From $8,362
  • Ages: 18+
  • Dates: August 11 - 23 Pre-program coursework: May–July 2025 (remote, online)
  • Location: Switzerland and Northern Italy
  • Duration: 12 days

Courses

Courses offered as part of this Program.

No courses currently listed for this program

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