Sustainable Smart Cities
Your Sustainable Smart Cites program in Shanghai lasts a full semester and provides an in-depth look at how China鈥檚 largest city is using innovative urban design solutions to prepare for the future. You will enroll in at least one sustainability course that explores how urban planning, technology, and public policy contribute to sustainability in Shanghai while also enrolling in your choice of business, communications, STEM, language, and other courses. This program offers a wide range of 91自拍 courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through 91自拍's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with cross-disciplinary cultural and extracurricular activities related to sustainability. Live and learn in Shanghai!
Unique Experiences
Explore Shanghai鈥檚 cutting-edge urban sustainability projects
and learn how AI-driven infrastructure, green building technologies, and big data solutions are enhancing energy efficiency and waste management
Engage in community-based sustainability projects
such as local waste sorting campaigns or urban gardening projects that promote biodiversity and sustainable food systems
Explore smart mobility and urban innovation
to gain firsthand insight into Shanghai鈥檚 advanced smart transportation systems, including its extensive metro network and AI-driven traffic management
Your Destination
Shanghai is China鈥檚 sustainable smart city, celebrated for its rapid innovation, cutting-edge infrastructure, and forward-thinking approach to urban development. As a hub for technology, finance, and sustainability, Shanghai blends historic charm with a modern skyline, efficient transit, and a thriving startup scene. Explore landmarks like The Bund, Yu Garden, and Lujiazui while experiencing the pulse of one of Asia鈥檚 most influential cities. Whether you're studying environmental science, business, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Shanghai is the perfect place to study abroad.
Program Highlights
- Featured Courses:鈥Choose from a set of related courses that explore how innovative cities utilize digital technologies and modern strategies to prepare for the future and impact the environment.
- Sustainability in Practice Workshop:鈥Take part in an optional workshop to compare different models of sustainability in your host country and around the world. Topics may include business, public policy, technology, waste-management, and more.
- Immersive Experiences:鈥Participate in networking events with local sustainability initiatives, activities that address how urban planning and technology can help lessen the impact on the environment, meaningful volunteer work with local organizations, and study tours to meet local changemakers and companies driving sustainability efforts. 鈥&苍产蝉辫;
- Academic Projects:鈥Enroll in a for-credit internship, directed independent research project, or service-learning to develop integrated sustainable solutions that address economic, social, and environmental challenges. 鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Excursions & Activities
91自拍鈥檚 excursions and cultural activities in Shanghai will open doors for you to explore China鈥檚 rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad. 鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Samples of excursions and activities: 鈥&苍产蝉辫;
- Visit the Shanghai Zoo to learn about habitat preservation, biodiversity, the impact of human activities on wildlife, and how the zoo integrates green initiatives like organic farming
- Travel to Chongming Island to learn about cutting-edge research on wetland restoration, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable agricultural practices
- Volunteer at a pioneering O2O (online-to-offline) charity store, where you will assist with sorting/organizing donated goods and managing the store's online platform
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and are subject to change at 91自拍's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.鈥
Program Blogs
Eat, Drink, Explore: Shanghai
BEST FOOD TO EAT IN SHANGHAI While in Shanghai, do yourself a favor and enjoy one of the city鈥檚 most popular plates: xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). These delicate steamed buns typically... keep reading
Chinese New Year: The Ultimate Guide
Red envelopes, firecrackers, and a feast that puts your college meal plan to shame 鈥 Chinese New Year is the celebration of the year, and you don鈥檛 want to miss... keep reading
Top 10 Chinese Slang Words & Phrases You Must Know
Think you鈥檙e fluent in Mandarin just because you鈥檝e mastered 鈥渘i hao鈥 and 鈥渪ie xie鈥? Not so fast! To truly impress your new friends in Great China, you鈥檒l need more than... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
91自拍 Shanghai offers students housing in campus residence halls with a 91自拍 roommate. Campus residence halls are鈥痩ocated in鈥痭eighborhoods with convenient鈥痑ccess to 91自拍 Shanghai Center (a 10-minute walk).鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Standard Housing:鈥Includes a double room鈥痑t the residence hall on campus, which boasts a kitchen,鈥痗ommon areas, and laundry facilities鈥痵hared with鈥痮ther students.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program Dates and Fees.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Meals
Meals are not included in Residence Hall housing. The Residence Hall features a shared kitchen in the common area, equipped with multiple induction cooktops, microwaves, fridges, and other basic appliances. Students can prepare simple in-house meals with basic cooking utensils and cleaning supplies. There are also moderately priced cafeterias available on campus and various other options in the area surrounding the campus.鈥
Academics
91自拍 Shanghai:鈥Study on the campus of East China Normal University (ECNU), 91自拍's esteemed partner institution, 91自拍 Shanghai features a library, a student life office, and an academic advising office. Students are encouraged to use ECNU's library and outdoor facilities as needed.
East China Normal University (ECNU):鈥疎ast China Normal University (ECNU) is located in Shanghai 鈥 a renowned international metropolis with architectural landmarks that capture the eye with new aesthetic designs. Founded in October 1951, ECNU is renowned for its leadership in disciplines such as education, psychology, and Chinese language teaching, positioning itself as a prominent institution in these fields nationwide. ECNU also boasts three national "Double First-Class" disciplines in education, ecology, and statistics, as well as six Shanghai municipal peak disciplines, including education, world history, geography, statistics, island atmosphere and ecology, and intelligent education.
Arizona State University (ASU):鈥Brought to you by 91自拍 in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the 91自拍 academic calendar.
Course Information
Featured Courses
The Sustainable Smart Cities program offers a diverse range of courses that explore how urban development, policy, and sustainability intersect. Students will explore important topics such as sustainable business practices, green urban planning, global environmental challenges, and the future of food systems. Through an interdisciplinary approach, these courses equip students with the tools and insights needed to tackle pressing sustainability issues and create meaningful change in cities worldwide.鈥&苍产蝉辫;
91自拍 Courses (in-person) | East China Normal University (ECNU)鈥 | ASU Courses (online) |
Building Sustainable Cities 鈥&苍产蝉辫; Sustainable Development in the 21st Century 鈥&苍产蝉辫; Business & Sustainability 鈥&苍产蝉辫; Engineering, Sustainability & Society鈥&苍产蝉辫; Sustainable Tourism鈥&苍产蝉辫; | Made in Shanghai: A City Exploration Tour鈥&苍产蝉辫; Chinese Traditional Garden and Architecture鈥&苍产蝉辫; Global Environment Change鈥&苍产蝉辫; Modern City Management鈥&苍产蝉辫; Urban Environment Processes鈥&苍产蝉辫; | Introduction to Sustainability Sustainable World Sustainable Energy Technology and Systems Pathways to Sustainability |
ECNU Classes:
- Students may choose to host institution courses taught in Chinese if the student shows proof of language proficiency such as HSK Level 5, interview, professor recommendation, or equivalent
- 91自拍 students are not eligible for ECNU鈥檚 Global China Program courses.
Internships:
- Students enrolling in the Internship are required to apply for authorization to do an internship after arriving in China. Students pursuing the internship are responsible for all associated application fees (approximately $150 USD). The application process includes approval from the internship sponsor, approval from ECNU, and a special application to the Chinese government. Please note that recipients of internship authorization are not allowed to leave and re-enter the mainland of China without obtaining a new visa.
- Prior Chinese language study may improve Internship placement opportunities
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Biological and Physical Sciences
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Biological and Physical Sciences
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
Academic Projects
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
History, Philosophy, Religion
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Biological and Physical Sciences
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment
East China Normal University (ECNU)
Upon formal admission to the program, students will gain access to ECNU's comprehensive selection of courses through the online enrollment system. The course catalog spans across 85 undergraduate majors, encompassing fields such as literature, history, philosophy, education, economics, natural sciences, engineering, management, law, arts, and medicine.
The following list of courses constitutes a representative sample of course offerings through East China Normal University and is subject to change. In some cases, prior background knowledge may be required to enroll in a class.
Not all courses listed are offered every semester, and some courses have prerequisites. The final list of courses is made available during the course enrollment process on-site. Please note that 91自拍 students are not eligible for ECNU鈥檚 Global China Program courses.
Sample list of content courses taught in English:鈥&苍产蝉辫;
Department of History
- History of Modern China
- Chinese Civilization: An Introduction
- The History of China鈥檚 Reform and Open-up
Department of Philosophy
- Introduction to Chinese Philosophy
- Philosophical Chinese
- Selected Readings in Confucianism
- Selected Readings in Daoism
Faculty of Education
- Introduction to Contemporary Research in Mathematics Education
- International Comparative Research in Mathematics Education
School of Design
- Chinese Art and Craft History
- Exhibition Histories
- Culture Study of Product Design
- Design Industry and Business Model
- Brand Communication and Management
- Made in Shanghai: A City Exploration Tour
- Chinese Traditional Garden and Architecture
- Future Career Thinking: Dialogue with Professional Practices
- Chinese Traditional Art Analysis
School of Economics and Management
- China and world economy
- Doing business in China in transition
- China in the Global Economy
- International Business
School of International Chinese Studies
- Cross-Cultural Communication
- Ancient Chinese Literature
- Modern Chinese Literature
- Intercultural Communication
- Introduction to Comparative Literature
- Translation Theories and Practices
School of Politics and International Relations
- Chinese International Relations
School of Public Management
- Macroeconomics
- International Finance
- Contemporary Chinese Economy
- School of Public Management
- Issues in Contemporary Chinese Society
- History and Theories of Anthropology
- Chinese Society
- Contemporary Chinese Society
- Anthropology of Religion
- Anthropology of Art
- Urban Anthropology
School of Urban and Regional Sciences
- Urban Environment Processes鈥&苍产蝉辫;
91自拍 proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
91自拍 and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the 91自拍 Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between 91自拍 and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at 91自拍's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple 91自拍 sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with 91自拍 Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Shanghai boasts a vibrant, fast-paced work scene that seamlessly blends traditional values with its modern corporate culture. This dynamic city is the ideal hub for finance, technology, and manufacturing professionals, with a growing focus on innovation and collaboration.
Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources
Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.
Architecture and Construction
Develop hands-on technical skills and responsible building planning while working for global architecture firms abroad.
Business Management and Administration
Study international business practices, multicultural leadership, and global market dynamics.
Consumer Goods and Retail
Explore consumer behaviors, business strategies, international retail trends, and more in the global commerce marketplace.
Education and Training
Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around the globe.
Health Science
Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of 91自拍 fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between 91自拍 and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
91自拍 offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- 91自拍 Gilman Go Global Grant
- Trailblazer Grant
To be considered, submit the 91自拍 Scholarships & Grants application within your 91自拍 program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with 91自拍, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2026 16 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $16,950 |
| Program Spring 2027 15 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | ||
| Program Fall 2027 16 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via 91自拍's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
91自拍 offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and 91自拍 iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Participation Confirmation | $300 * |
| Educational Costs | $11,206 ** |
| Housing | $5,250 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $16,950 |
Financial Aid
91自拍 offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
| Meals not included in program fee | $1,713 鈥 |
| International Airfare | $1,300 鈥犫赌 |
| Local Transportation | $500 |
| Books & Supplies | $10 |
| Personal expenses | $335 鈥犫赌犫 |
| Total Costs | $3,858 |
*non-refundable fee
**Direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
鈥For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.
鈥犫赌round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure
鈥犫赌犫$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
91自拍 offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and 91自拍 iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
91自拍 offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
91自拍 offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and 91自拍 iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
91自拍 offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
91自拍 iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Jia Ma
Center Director
With more than a decade of service at 91自拍 Shanghai, Ma Jia oversees the operations of the Shanghai center, providing a strong foundation for your experiences.
Sonya Zhao
Academic Director
Sonya holds a master's degree in communication management from Emerson College, Boston, and another master鈥檚 degree in international development studies from George Washington University in D.C. Before joining 91自拍, Sonya...
Qianrong Tang
Student Life Director
Qianrong Tang is responsible for all aspects of student service and student activity administration, health, safety, and security.
Get Started
1
Start an Application
You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact 91自拍
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
4
Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with 91自拍 staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. 91自拍 will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!
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