Study Abroad Experience
London and Amsterdam, Summer 2027
Over ten transformative days, participants connect with UK and Dutch experts, examine cutting-edge treatment, distribution, and flood-protection strategies, and see firsthand how major cities abroad are preparing their water systems for the future.
Why This Program Matters
Water utilities everywhere are facing rapidly evolving challenges—aging systems, climate risks, shifting regulations, financial stress, and rising expectations around sustainability and reliability. London and Amsterdam share these challenges, but execute in regulatory environments and cultures very different from the United States. This course gives managers the rare chance to compare international approaches and gain new strategic insights by studying the unique variations in water utility management that London and Amsterdam have to offer. Although students may bring home practical ideas to strengthen operations back in the U.S., the experience embodies shared learning: we hope that we leave behind lessons from our own experiences.
What Participants Experience
London: historically, one of the more scrutinized water systems in the world, but on the edge of innovative solutions. Explore the history of water infrastructure at the London Museum of Water and Steam. Discuss regulatory frameworks enforced by Ofwat, the Environment Agency, and the Drinking Water Inspectorate. Tour major utilities and landmark projects shaping the city’s response to aging infrastructure, climate pressures, and rising environmental standards. Learn how large-scale upgrades, like Thames Water’s Tideway Tunnel, are transforming wastewater management, and see firsthand how oversight, accountability, and long-term planning are driving change.
Amsterdam: Experience one of the world’s most integrated and innovative water systems in action. In Amsterdam, you’ll engage directly with Waternet—a water utility that manages drinking water, wastewater, surface water, and flood protection under one roof—and explore how the Netherlands achieves resiliency in a country built largely below sea level. Visit cutting-edge facilities, from natural dune filtration sites to energy-positive treatment plants, and learn how national agencies like Rijkswaterstaat safeguard vital infrastructure against rising seas and extreme weather. This Amsterdam immersion gives water managers a powerful model of holistic, climate-ready water management to bring back home.
Culture: Between site visits, participants enjoy free time for cultural exploration. London and Amsterdam are home to several treasures of world travel. As a group, we will tour London’s famous Borough Market and enjoy a canal tour of Amsterdam.
Program Cost
Study Abroad Trip Fee: approximately $3500, depending upon enrollment
- Includes: double-occupancy lodging, on-ground transportation in London and Amsterdam, breakfast most days, and some lunches and dinners. Single-occupancy rooms can be arranged for an upgraded fee.
- Does not include: flights, passport, tuition for course