Arclight Institute logo

Education Abroad

Education That Connects Scholarship with Practice

The Arclight Institute’s education abroad programs combine academically rigorous coursework with educational experiences in the places where international cooperation takes shape. Based in Strasbourg, France, our programs use one of Europe’s leading centers of international governance as a gateway to learning across the continent. Participants engage with policymakers, institutional leaders, practitioners, and communities in Strasbourg and throughout Europe, connecting academic study with professional practice while exploring career pathways that many students never have the opportunity to experience firsthand. Designed for university students interested in international affairs, public policy, diplomacy, environmental governance, law, and related fields, Arclight programs prepare participants for graduate study and internationally focused careers by broadening perspectives, expanding professional networks, and opening doors to opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom.

Apply Now

Three Pillars Build the Arclight Institute Student Experience

Where Our Programs Take You

Where can one summer take you? Trace our route across more than 1,000 miles of travel through France and neighboring countries. Click to see the cities we visit and the institutions where you’ll meet the leaders shaping our world.

    University of FribourgFribourg, Switzerland
    Our historic host.
    Swiss ParliamentBern, Switzerland
    Sessions with parliamentarians from the International Affairs Committee.
    United Nations HeadquartersGeneva, Switzerland
    Meetings with the Ukrainian Ambassador.
    Council of EuropeStrasbourg, France
    Meetings with experts on terrorism and cyber security.
    Metz, FranceMetz, France
    Overnight in the beautiful and historic heart of Metz.
    Hackenberg FortressMaginot Line
    Built on the Maginot Line that divided France and Germany.
    Le Grand-PlaceBrussels, Belgium
    Overnight near the UNESCO World Heritage heart of the city.
    European UnionBrussels, Belgium
    Meet with ambassadors and security experts.
    NATO HeadquartersBrussels, Belgium
    Gain global perspective in the heart of the NATO Alliance.
    Strasbourg, FranceStrasbourg, France
    Meet personally with the Ambassador at the Swiss Mission.
    Fortress de ChillonMontreux, Switzerland
    Explore a WWII Era Lakeside Fortress.
    World Meteorological OrganizationGeneva, Switzerland
    Meet with world-renowned climate scientists.
    World Food ProgrammeRome, Italy
    Learn about the intersection of climate change and food security.
    Food and Agricultural OrganizationRome, Italy
    Gain insider perspective with experts on climate change and food
    Ecco Climate Think TankRome, Italy
    Learn about the world of climate nonprofits.
    Archeology tour & Capitoline MuseumRome, Italy
    When in Rome… live Rome!
    Jungfraujoch & Aletsch GlacierAletschgletscher, Switzerland
    Reflect on your academic journey atop a Swiss glacier.

Student Testimonials

    These weeks were life-changing. What stayed with me was how much I learned--and how it reignited my love of learning. This program helped me find my path and the confidence to pursue it. I won't say it was easy, but it was absolutely worth it--an unforgettable academic and personal turning point.

    Morgan

    My time in the International Security Studies and Global Environmental Justice programs at the Arclight Institute was the highlight of my college education! They offer a unique opportunity to learn from the diplomats, politicians, and activists who are writing the next chapter of our world’s history.

    Zach

    My experience in the International Security Studies program was unforgettable. Traveling in Europe in a scholarly group, visiting NATO and the UN, was a blessing I'll always be grateful for. Aside from the academics, exploring Europe with both my program group and on my free time was a walk through history, culture, and a timeless, immeasurable feeling of wonder.

    Anthony

    The ISSP 25’ program was such an important experience for me, both academically and personally. The class content and your lectures (yes, even the bus ones) shaped the way I think about international security. That experience—and our private conversations—gave me a unique perspective that helped me earn a position with the Congressional Research Service supporting analysts on NATO defense spending.

    Bradley

    The Global Environmental Justice Program was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I met amazing people, explored incredible cities, and spoke with experts at the UN and other international organizations. I came home more confident, focused, and ready for my post-grad career.

    Cody

    My time in Switzerland fundamentally changed my life. Not only is it an excellent resume builder . . . it steered me toward a career I love. Not in small part because of this experience, I ended up in my dream role with the U.S. federal government. I recommend this trip to anyone I meet who is even vaguely considering a career in government or international relations. It was truly the experience of a lifetime.

    Katie

    Participating in the International Security Studies Program in Switzerland was an amazing experience that helped me further my understanding of important economic, political, humanitarian, and security organizations in the context of international security issues. [It] helped me acquire a government internship with a focus on international organizations such as NATO! I highly recommend this unique program.

    Olivia

Student Life & Safety

From shared meals and housing in Strasbourg to weekends exploring France with new friends, daily life blends academic challenge with cultural discovery. All supported by 24/7 staff, comprehensive insurance, and the security of one of Europe’s safest countries.

Costs & Financing

Study abroad is an investment in your future.  Our Costs & Financing page clearly outlines what’s included, what’s not, and how financial aid may apply. Use our interactive budget calculator to plan ahead and see the full value of your study abroad experience.

See the Full Cost Breakdown

University of Fribourg

The University of Fribourg serves as our base of operations. Our first and third weeks include
seminars, guest speakers, and organized policy debates. The highlight is the annual diplomacy
roundtable, where we host multiple national ambassadors and members of the State Department.

Swiss Parliament

We are welcomed into the heart of Parliament and have an extended session discussing the
intersection of domestic policy and security in Switzerland and Europe more broadly. The visit
concludes with a behind-the-scenes tour of the chambers of parliament.

United Nations Headquarters

Our first ISS week ends with a day-long trip to Geneva. Past years include meetings with weapons
inspectors who served time on the ground in Iraq, experts on chemical and biological warfare,
and extended private sessions with national ambassadors.

Council of Europe

Our second week begins with a visit to the Council of Europe, a storied institution that predates
the establishment of the European Union. Participate in seminars with policy and security experts
on timely topics including terrorism, cyber warfare, and Russian/European relations.

Metz, France

Students have time to explore the historic old city, visit the cathedral, and sample delicious
French cuisine. Students are cordially invited to share a meal with faculty, swapping stories or
perspectives while enjoying Acacian specialties, or explore on their own.

Hackenberg Fortress

Explore a relic of an earlier age.

Le Grand-Place

Our hotel is just off Grand Place, in the heart of the historic old city. Students may explore on
their own or enjoy dinner with the faculty. You never know who might join for the meal; special
guests from past years have included ambassadors, parliamentarians, and other global leaders.

European Union

Meet with experts and staffers assigned to security-related committees. The visit culminates with
an extended private session with the Ukrainian Ambassador to the European Union. This occurs
either within the parliament or as special guests hosted at the Ukrainian Mission itself.

NATO Headquarters

Our visit to NATO HQ is a bucket-list experience for anyone interested in international security.
We meet with members of the US State Department, military officers, and high-ranking officials.
In addition to topical issues, we discuss how to navigate a career in the State Department.

Strasbourg, France

Enjoy an invitation-only meeting with the Swiss Ambassador to the Council of Europe. Topics
include perspectives on global and European security, the future of European/Russian relations,
and navigating the complex politics of international security cooperation.

Fortress de Chillon

Explore the living fortress museum, learn about the military history, and reflect on the tradition
of Swiss armed neutrality. The night is spent enjoying the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival
where students enjoy music from across the globe.

World Meteorological Organization

Our first week ends with a visit to the Meteorological Organization, where we meet with the
scientists who forecast global weather. Experts discuss timely issues—from food security to
extreme weather—that have global impact. The afternoon is spent exploring beautiful Geneva.

World Food Programme

We visit WFP headquarters to meet experts who address global food insecurity. Hear firsthand
how the WFP combines predictive modeling, complex logistics, and global coordination to
deliver food assistance in crisis zones and support long-term food security.

Food and Agricultural Organization

Gain a deeper understanding of how the UN promotes sustainable agriculture. Hear directly from
experts, scientists, and policy analysis about the FAO’s role supporting farmers, protecting
natural resources, and improving food systems in an ever-warming world.

Ecco Climate Think Tank

While climate change is global, part of the solution is local. Spend a morning meeting exploring
the intersection of expertise and advocacy with members of Ecco Climate. Learn about best
practices in sustainable agriculture from Italy, Europe, and the world.

Archeology tour & Capitoline Museum

Our middle week centers on meetings with climate scientist and policy experts in Rome… and
we make sure to find time to enjoy and explore the food, culture, and history of this storied city.
Group activities include an archeological tour and entrance to the Capitoline Museum.

Jungfraujoch & Aletsch Glacier

Our final week includes a poignant lecture—and day of personal exploration and reflection—on
the impact of climate change in real-time. We spend the day ascending 14,000 feet up the
Jungfraujoch and walk on—and in! —the UNESCO Natural World Heritage Aletsch Glacier.

I am a heading