Pennsylvania State University
IN-26: Innovation C

A unique new immersive learning program has been developed, and will host its first cohort of students in Fall 2017. Study Away Pittsburgh is a 15-credit residential program that provides Penn State students with an immersive urban experience while taking classes in person and online. It is designed to allow students to learn about urban sustainability challenges and solutions while working on projects that directly improve Pittsburgh’s communities. A unique component of the program is its community practicum or field experience requirement. Students will engage in research and learning projects with a sustainability theme, sponsored by local governments, nonprofit organizations, and community partners. Topical areas for the projects will include affordable housing, alternative transportation, clean air and water, food security, health, urban forestry, energy efficiency, green business, economic revitalization, recreation, and park and green space revitalization. The program provides students with an alternative to a Study Abroad experience. In this inaugural semester, two students are enrolled. Each is working on a project with a community partner. One, in conjunction with the PA Environmental Council, will develop a feasibility study for a new conservation landscape called, Glacier’s Edge. The other, with the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh, will work on various projects related to citywide land recycling reform.