Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Explore how science and policy come together to address today’s most urgent environmental challenges.
Environmental Policy and the City – Opportunities and Challenges in NYC and Rio de Janeiro
Dates: July 6 – August 4, 2026 | Credits: 3
Led by Jean Krasno, Director of the MA Program in International Affairs (MIA), and Ana Carnaval, Professor of Biology, this faculty-led, project-based course explores how climate change, biodiversity shifts, and habitat alterations drive extreme urban challenges—such as housing instability, food insecurity, health impacts, and transportation disruptions—in global cities. By bridging scientific insights with policymaking, students learn to articulate environmental data into actionable policies through dialogue with stakeholders across New York City and Rio de Janeiro.
Academics
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New York Kickoff: Visits to the New York Botanical Garden, community field sessions, and foundational seminars on environmental science and urban politics.
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Rio de Janeiro Immersion (2 weeks): In partnership with PUC-Rio, engage with studies on the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, sustainable development, biodiversity, and Brazil’s complex social history. Includes excursions to Petópolis (royal summer estate museum), and meetings with the U.S. Consulate and the UN Information Center in Rio.
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Reflection & Wrap-up in NY: Final week devoted to student presentations and group-based policy project development.
Cultural Activities
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Guided tours and academic excursions in both cities (e.g., NY Botanical Garden; museums and heritage sites in Rio; mountain trip to Petópolis)
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Direct engagement with local academic, governmental, and international institutions
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Cross-cultural exchange sessions with local communities and stakeholders
Before you go check the helpful links below:
Center for Disease Control- Check for any travel notices. 
U.S. Department of State International Travel- Learn more about your destination.
Consulate General of Brazil- Not sure if you need a visa? Check here.
Important Dates (mandatory meetings):
- Deadline for all Application Materials: April 30th, 2026
- Interview with Study Abroad: April 13rd-17th, 2026
- Pre-Departure Orientation: May 1, 2026 @ 4:30pm
- Deadline for payment of Program costs and CUNY - Tuition: May 8th, 2026
Disclaimer: All dates are subject to change and will be confirmed later.
Costs
- Application fee: $300
- CCNY Tuition: 3 Credits ($305 or higher per credit)
- *Program Cost: To be announced
- Airfare: $500 to $950(Estimated)
We’re here to help! Feel free to contact us by phone or email, or stop by the Study Abroad Office to learn more about the Rio de Janeiro, Brazil program and how to apply.
Contact us at:
P: 212.650.5494
F: 212.650.5645
E:
ngromez@ccny.cuny.edu
Office Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Friday: 10:00am – 4:00pm (via Zoom)
Connect with us!
Last Updated: 09/08/2025 11:08