University of Wisconsin–Madison
Back to Top

SFS Climate Studies

3 backpackers are hiking in the mountains. a long mountain range is in front of them
Two mountain peaks with snow on them. A rainbow passes between the peaks and fog is clouding the background

Talk to a representative for this program at the Study Abroad Fair.

Chile, Puerto Natales

Limited Capacity Program: This program can accept a limited number of students each term, and in the past, we have received more qualified applicants than available spots. Review and admission of applicants occurs on a rolling basis, and you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. You may only have one open application per term, but should have an alternate program in mind in the event that you are not accepted to this program.

Offered through the School for Field Studies (SFS) Center for Climate Studies, the Chile semester and summer programs are approved UW affiliate programs.

SFS programs in Chile take place across the contrasting landscapes of Patagonia, from jagged peaks, massive glaciers, and narrow fjords to expansive grasslands and the lush temperate rainforests growing at the base of the Andes. Courses and fieldwork focus on key environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, tourism impacts, and sustainable livelihoods. The fragile ecosystems of southern Chile and Argentina are especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change – unpredictable storms, glacial melt, shifting temperatures, fires, and droughts. SFS research in Patagonia examines ecology and geologic systems, how conservation decisions are made in the region, and species found nowhere else on the planet.

You will be working closely with both IAP and SFS on these programs. You can access the main information page through the SFS website to learn more about the academics, housing, excursions and activities, and location. 

 

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to providing quality study abroad and domestic study away programs for every UW-Madison student. We work strategically to identify, address, and remove barriers that may prevent participation and to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students. Our staff actively engages with students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds and prioritizes the continuous development of our knowledge and cultural competence. We also recognize the importance of increasing access to study abroad for historically underrepresented student populations. We are committed to diversity and inclusion so that every student can engage with and understand their identity through a new lens and continue to develop and make progress on their personal, professional, and academic goals.

Sustainability

We recognize that the future of study abroad, domestic study away, and international internship programming requires a Commitment to Sustainability. We are devoted to examining, developing, and improving sustainability in all our endeavors, aligning with campus priorities and following through with UW-Madison's climate action and Resilience Commitment. Join our efforts and learn more about how to study abroad sustainably.

Request Information

Join our email list to receive program updates-including application notices, scholarship information, and more!

Eligibility

  • 2.8 cumulative GPA for semester programs; 2.6 cumulative GPA for summer programs
  • Previous college-level ecology, biology, earth science, or environmental studies course required for semester programs.
  • Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior
  • Good academic and disciplinary standing
  • At the time of application and the semester prior to participation, UW-Madison students must be currently enrolled. Transfer Students to UW-Madison need to be currently enrolled at their home institution

Advising Location

Program Structure

Provider

Subjects

Climate Change, Environmental Studies, Environmental Ethics, Ecology, Conservation, Sustainable Development, Environmental Sociology

Classroom Language

English

Housing

Field Research Station, Guesthouse

Program Duration

Fall: Early September - Mid-December
Spring: Late January - Mid-May
Summer 1: Early June - Early July

*See SFS' website for exact dates

Application Deadline(s)

Summer 2026 - [Session I: The Patagonian Winter] 2/20/2026 Cost Details
Fall 2026-27 2/20/2026 Cost Details
Spring 2026-27 9/18/2026 Cost Details
Summer 2027 - [Session I: The Patagonian Winter] 2/19/2027 Cost Details
Fall 2027-28 2/19/2027 Cost Details

Future durations will be posted at a later date.

APPLY NOW

 

For specific details on the courses and academic structure of the programs, visit the SFS program page:

SFS Chile Semester: Wild Patagonia - Fire and Ice
SFS Chile Summer 1: The Patagonian Winter

SFS research at this center focuses on the following themes:

  • Climate change impacts and resilience
  • Geology and volcanic activity
  • Glacial and freshmater dynamics
  • Penguin behavior
  • Endangered species protection
  • National park visitation and protected areas management
  • Coastal and alpine ecology
  • Conservation strategy and practice

View SFS' list of recent directed research projects per program site.

Below you will find the course equivalents listing for the program.

Program Web Pages

School for Field Studies SFS Chile Programs

Foreign Courses

SFS Chile Semester Courses SFS Chile Summer 1 Course

Course Equivalents

Use the links below to see a list of courses that past students have taken on this program and the UW equivalents. Note: This list only includes pre-approved courses for your program and may not be an exhaustive list of courses, departments or equivalents. Courses may not be available the semester you are abroad. You will receive instructions on the course equivalent process after acceptance. View Course Equivalents