CNS students have the opportunity to take Introductory Biology II (BIO 311D) in the stunning coastal city of Nice, France. This faculty-led May Term program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on field experiences and cultural exploration in one of Europe's most scenic and biologically diverse regions. This immersive experience is ideal for students seeking to fulfill biology requirements while gaining global perspective and applying classroom knowledge in the field.
Required Courses
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NSC 119 |
International Learning Seminar Spring semester, before departure |
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BIO 311D |
Introductory Biology II Taken abroad in Nice during May Term |
Program Highlights
- Take BIO 311D while abroad with UT Faculty
- Explore evolution, development, physiology, and ecology in real-world settings
- Conduct fieldwork at castle ruins, Mediterranean beaches, and marine research stations
- Visit Monaco's Oceanographic Museum and the Camargue wetlands
- Learn from UT faculty and engage with local scientists and land managers
- Stay in a shared apart-hotel in the heart of beautiful Nice, France
2027 Program Dates
Subject to change
- May 4 – June 1, 2027
- NSC Spring Course - TBD
Cost & Eligibility
- Program fee includes housing, excursions, instruction, and orientation
- Airfare, books, insurance, transportation, and personal expenses not included
- Open to students from all colleges and schools
- Recommended minimum GPA: 2.5
- Must have completed BIO 311C with a grade of C or better
- See the estimated program budget for full cost details
| Program fee | TBD |
| Estimated student out-of-pocket costs | TBD |
| Total estimated cost | TBD |
Sample Activities - Subject to change
- Morning to mid-afternoon lectures followed by free time or field excursions
- Hiking and ecology field study at castle ruins
- Snorkeling to observe aquatic ecosystems
- Sea urchin fertilization at IMEV (Institut de la Mer de Villefranche)
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3-day trip to the Camargue to explore native ecosystems,
observe local flora and fauna, and meet with land managers
What Students Are Saying
“I got so much closer to all of my peers on this trip, and I really didn’t expect to make so many friends. Being exposed to a new culture and having to be so far away from home has helped me to grow more as an individual and get a better grasp on how much there is to see in the world. This class has inspired me to travel.”
“The most valuable part of the program is the ability to explore a beautiful and diverse region of France. There are so many awesome cities nearby, and there is so much to learn from the French Riviera, effectively creating an immersive and valuable learning experience abroad.”
“Studying abroad in Nice was one of the best experiences that I’ve ever done because of the people I got to meet and the amazing places I got to travel to! I would definitely recommend this program, especially if you want to explore real-world biology in France!”
BIO 311D in Nice, France Application - Applications for May 2027 will open in Fall 2026
Review the Program Requirements
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Apply by November 1, 2026 at 11:59pm
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Must have completed BIO 311C with a grade of C- or better in Fall 2026 or earlier
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Minimum GPA: 2.5
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Mandatory NSC 119 (1-hour) course in Spring 2027 semester (schedule TBA)
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Deposit of $500 (due after acceptance)
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Application fee for Portal access $75 (after acceptance into the program)
Draft Your Essay Questions
Please draft your essays in a separate word document ahead of opening the application. When answering the following prompts, consider what sets you apart and include details which will give us a better idea of who you are.
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What do you hope to gain from studying BIO 311D in Nice, France? Specifically, how will participating in the labs, excursions and class activities help you academically/personally? (250 words max)
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Students on this program will be not only be representing themselves, but also CNS and UT Austin. What would you bring to this opportunity and why are you a good candidate for this experience abroad? (250 words max)
Secure a Recommendation from a UT Faculty or Graduate Teaching Assistant
- The application requires a short recommendation survey from a UT Faculty or Graduate Teaching Assistant.
- Contact your recommender ahead of submitting the application to make sure they are prepared to complete a recommendation on your behalf. The survey will automatically send once the application has been submitted. The survey should take about 5 minutes to complete and will be due by November 4th, 2026.