This summer, students from CU Denver embarked on a transformative journey through the CU Denver Global Education Program, visiting Chile, Japan, and Italy.
These international study opportunities provide immersive experiences, exposing students to diverse cultures and perspectives they will carry into their future careers.
**Santiago, Chile: Exploring Urban Design**
In Santiago, Chile, the summer study abroad program for the Master of Urban Design (MUD) and Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) focused on the intricate dynamics of urban design and planning.
Santiago was chosen due to its similarities with Denver and Colorado in terms of settlement patterns, culture, language, and urbanism.
Urban Design Program Director Ken Schroeppel highlighted the new partnership with the University of Chile’s Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo, stating that it provides an incredible opportunity for academic and logistical support in one of Latin America’s major capital cities.
“Santiago is a beautiful, dynamic city framed by the Andes Mountains, similar to how Denver is situated next to the Rockies.
There’s a lot we can learn from Santiago about walkable urbanism that can be applied to locations in the United States,” Schroeppel noted.
The aim of the Santiago Public Space Studio was to emphasize the importance of accessible and well-designed public spaces for all citizens.
Students engaged in various public space design assignments, collaborated with local planning professionals, and worked in small interdisciplinary groups.
Their experience included excursions around Santiago and a day trip to Valparaiso, a coastal city known for its vibrant culture.
“Students stayed in the heart of the urban core and were given exercises that required them to explore Santiago’s urban environment, study public spaces, and visit culturally significant sites,” Schroeppel explained.
Hogan Henz, a dual Master of Urban and Regional Planning and Master of Urban Design student, shared his experience, saying, “My favorite aspect of my time in Santiago was being able to explore a city and culture through the lens of public spaces, with my friends and fellow students.
Travel helps to broaden one’s perspective and to appreciate places, practices, and people that are different or new.
Santiago showed me how complex and beautiful public spaces can be.”
Plans for the Santiago Public Space Studio are in the works for 2026, welcoming not just MUD and MURP students but also graduate students from other CAP programs interested in international public space design.
**Japan: Tectonics in Context**
For two and a half weeks this summer, students delved into Japan’s unique architectural culture.
The program titled “CU Denver in Japan: Tectonics in Context” featured three design prompts and involved collaboration with students and faculty from Kyoto University.
The students traveled between key locations, including Tokyo, Miyajima, Naoshima, and Kyoto.
Associate Professor Kevin Hirth, who directs the Undergraduate Architecture Program, remarked on the challenges of navigating Tokyo’s complex urban landscape.
“The intricate urban fabric and public transport system forced students to hone their orientation and observation skills in a high-density, dynamic environment,” Hirth explained.
The students engaged in on-site sketching and detailed documentation of various architectural styles, from traditional temples to innovative modern buildings.
This rigorous engagement encouraged them to analyze and translate complex spatial relationships onto paper, cultivating critical thinking and adaptability despite language barriers.
“Travel is the ultimate immersive learning for architecture students.
These experiences are crucial as they develop observational and analytical skills that are essential for good architects,” Hirth said.
Marc Swackhamer, co-teaching the program and former Chair of the Department of Architecture, emphasized the value of travel in developing students’ observational skills.
“Students are naturally uncomfortable in a foreign environment, which prompts them to notice everyday things they typically take for granted.
This awareness is crucial for architects, as it helps them see beauty in daily life experiences.”
For those interested in studying architecture in Japan, Hirth is currently planning a return visit for next summer.
Details will be available through the Office of Global Education/Study Abroad.
**Italy: Discovering Architecture in Rome**
The CU Denver in Italy study abroad program offers significant educational benefits through the exploration of Rome’s rich history and its modern urban context.
Students engaged in sketching, measuring, and observing the unique cultural offerings that Rome provides.
According to Assistant Professor Matt Shea, the program serves as a living laboratory of history, design, and urban life.
“Experiencing the city firsthand is always exciting, from walking and sketching its streets and piazzas to witnessing the coexistence of contemporary urban life and historical monuments,” Shea commented.
Courses in Rome focused on analyzing the relationship between historical architecture and contemporary design.
Through observational drawing and site visits, students refined their skills in interpreting both ancient and modern spaces.
Master of Architecture student Mia Mettais shared, “As amazing as Rome itself was, the connections I made with everyone on the trip were truly the highlight.
Experiencing such an incredible city with friends who made every day fun enhanced the overall experience.
We visited a range of sites, from the ancient Basilica of San Clemente to the modern MAXXI museum, enhancing the depth of our experience.”
She added, “Sometimes, stepping out of your daily routine and immersing yourself in another culture is essential to truly appreciate your field of study.
Being present at monuments and historic sites offers an understanding that is impossible to achieve in the classroom.
Beyond academic value, the friendships formed during these experiences continue to enrich our lives long after the program ends.”
**Looking Ahead to Summer 2026**
Plans are underway for Summer 2026 study abroad opportunities, including the return of programs in Chile, Japan, and Italy.
Students interested in participating in these programs are encouraged to stay updated with the Office of Global Education for more information on studying abroad next year.
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