Bustling outdoor café scene with colorful umbrellas and people enjoying drinks in a city square.

Summer Abroad Belgium

BIO 2 in Belgium

Leuven, Belgium

  • Dates – June 19–July 17, 2027
  • Max Enrollment – 30
  • Taught In – English
  • Prerequisites – Yes
  • Academic Area – Biological Sciences

Program Overview

This dynamic introductory biology course dives into the molecular and cellular processes that power living systems, from DNA and proteins to the inner workings of the cell, all in a small, engaging class setting that puts you in close contact with instructors and fellow students. Founded in 1425, Leuven offers a vibrant student atmosphere unlike anywhere back home.

Beyond the classroom, weekly excursions take you across Belgium to unforgettable destinations, from the fairytale canals of Bruges to the dramatic cliffs and river valley of Dinant. Combining hands-on scientific discovery with travel and cultural exploration, this program is your chance to study biology while experiencing the history, culture and energy of one of Europe's great university towns.

Program Contacts

Program Highlights

  • Take BIO 2 in a small cohort of just 30 students—a world away from the large lecture halls back on campus.
  • Learn fundamental biology concepts from expert faculty in the historic university city of Leuven.
  • Explore biology through hands-on excursions, including a chocolate-making demonstration and a visit to a local farm to discover the science behind cheese making.
  • Tour the historic Brasserie Cantillon, a traditional lambic brewery, and see fermentation biology in action.
  • Cruise the storybook canals of Bruges on a boat tour through one of Europe's most picturesque cities.

What Students Are Saying

  • "I'm an animal biology major, so completing BIO 2 abroad really gave me a good foundation for what's to come in the rest of my classes."

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