International Internships and Service-Learning Opportunities
The CALS Study Abroad Office supports efforts for student participation in international internships, service learning, and research abroad opportunities.
An internship experience is not guaranteed for every student, as it can be difficult to find willing mentors and organize in short notice. Additional costs may apply for internships and international internships are typically unpaid, but a few programs may offer stipends.
CALS students have the unique opportunity to engage in service-learning opportunities at two campuses- the Mpirigiti Rural Training Center in Uganda and the Fork in the Road Facility on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. Students can earn credit towards their ISU degree programs and gain hands-on experience in their areas of study. These locations offer summer and semester-long programs for CALS students to engage in local communities and immerse themselves in another culture.
Internships and Opportunities
Third Party Internship Programs
If you are interested in participating in a third-party internship, you will need to contact the CALS Study Abroad Office to register your travel. Please email calsstudyabroad@iastate.edu or stop by 0018 Curtiss Hall to learn more.
Global Sustainability Scholars: The Global Sustainability Scholars program brings together talented undergraduates for a paid summer immersive experience, where students travel abroad, conduct research, and build their professional network in real-world sustainability issues.
School for Field Studies: Iowa State University partners with the School for Field Studies to offer unique field experiences for students interested in environmental research in some of the most remote locations around the world! Studying abroad with SFS, you live and learn alongside a group of peers who are motivated, passionate, interested in the environment and field work, and curious about other cultures and communities. SFS programs are rigorous and often intense, but they bring students together – you begin the program as a group of individuals from diverse backgrounds and leave as lifelong friends.
- Australia: Rainforest ecology and Australian mammal focus
- Kenya: Animal ecology, endangered species conservation focus
- Tanzania: Animal ecology, wildlife conservation focus
- Bhutan: Mountain ecology and Buddhist philosophy influence on conservation focus
- Cambodia: Community conservation and Asian elephant ecology focus
- Costa Rica: Sustainable food systems and environmental justice focus
- Panama: Rainforest and marine ecosystems focus
- Turks and Caicos: Marine conservation and marine fauna focus
Field Study Abroad: Applied Ecology and Conservation Internships in Southern Africa. Options to work on five different projects: Cheetah Rewilding, Big 5 Conservation, Tropical Marine Conservation, Orphaned Rhino Rehab and Release, or Wildlife Center. Typically program length is 2 weeks but can range from 1 - 12 weeks.
Isla Internships Abroad: Hands-on, highly affordable global development internships that align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Located in Bulgaria, Kosovo, India, Spain and Uganda.
Loop Abroad: Pre-Vet Experiences in Thailand, South Africa, Australia, Costa Rica, and the US.
Vida Volunteer: Medical, Dental, and Veterinary programs in Guatemala and Costa Rica.
Interested in learning more about a specific program? Stop by our office, 0018 Curtiss Hall or set up an appointment with a study abroad advisor.