Copenhagen, Denmark: Energy and the Environment, Health and Well-being

Health and Well-being

Experience the unique cultural concept of “hygge” in the city that ranks No. 2 in the world for quality of life. In Copenhagen, immerse yourself in Danish culture while navigating modern urban design in a city that dates back to the 11th century. Take the World by the Horns gets you outside of the classroom and into research centers, clinics, and public spaces to experience the systems that foster wellness firsthand.

You will enroll in four courses offered by our partner, DIS Copenhagen, that focus on broader aspects of Danish life including Danish language and culture. DIS courses combine traditional classroom instruction with engaging visits to local sites. You will also travel outside of Denmark to experience and compare U.S. and Danish healthcare to other international systems.

There is no language requirement for participation. A Scandinavian language and culture course will be incorporated throughout the semester and will appear on your transcript. Upon your return, you may take a placement test or seek an evaluation to assess your UT Austin language course level.

Energy and the Environment

Beginning in Fall 2025, students can also explore how Copenhagen is a global center of sustainability, examining the impact of humans on the environment and how Denmark has invested in renewable energy sources like wind power. They will also learn more about how the Danish integrate sustainable practices into their everyday lifestyle.

Academics

The courses listed below are for the Health and Well-being program offered for Fall 2024. Fall 2025 courses will be updated in October.

The learning experience on this program will introduce students to Danish culture in order to understand how they view wellness and how it influences their healthcare system. Students will then compare this approach to the healthcare system of neighboring Scandinavian countries Sweden and Norway.

• “Healthcare Systems: A Comparative Approach” examines how various healthcare systems are organized and financed in Denmark and Northern Europe. The course includes visits to healthcare sites in Sweden and Norway.
• “Environmental Impacts of Humans” focuses on the effects of the environment on human health within the paradigms of civilization and ideologies.
• “The Good Life” explores European philosophical perspectives of what living the fullest and richest life means, which students can use to inform their understanding of healthcare and well-being.
• “Danish Language and Culture” will emphasize the cultural components of life in Denmark to give students tools to better understand and communicate with the Danish peers and colleagues they meet.

Signature Course Offered

After completing their fall semester abroad, students can enroll in a signature course to continue to explore the academic themes with their cohort.

In Professor Lauren Gulbas’ signature course, “Women and Madness,” students will explore the theoretical evolution of mental illness, highlighting differences in treatment based on gender. This course will complement students’ learning experiences in Denmark by investigating how historical understanding of “good health” influences current health care systems’ priorities. Dr. Gulbas’ signature course also presents students with a potential research opportunity in her interdisciplinary Advanced Qualitative Research Lab, offering a powerful transition point for students exploring professional applications within the greater health care industry.

Program Dates

2025 Program Dates

Costs and Financial Aid

The total cost of the program for Fall 2025 is $30,627 and includes all registration fees and tuition, overseas insurance, flights, passport, visa, pre-departure costs, housing, excursions, meals, and estimated personal expenses during the semester abroad.

You will be able to apply for federal and institutional financial aid to cover a portion or all costs of this program.

Application

The application for Fall 2025 is now open. The deadline to apply is December 1.