e3 Brazil

City: Curitiba Country: Brazil

Overview

The University of Alberta's e3 Brazil program in Curitiba offers you a unique blend of learning and adventure. Imagine spending your days taking a fascinating course, enhancing your resume with a hands-on internship, and learning Portuguese in the heart of one of Brazil’s most innovative cities.

Curitiba is renowned for its cutting-edge urban planning, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming community. As you explore the city, you’ll be fully immersed in Brazilian life—connecting with locals, enjoying the culture, and sampling delicious cuisine. Plus, learning Portuguese opens up a world of professional and personal opportunities.

e3 Brazil combines:

Portuguese language study
Academic coursework
Internship placement (work or research) when you sign up for a language or academic class

When Can I Go?

Term Offered: Spring, Summer

U of A Application Status: Open
Deadline: Feb. 10, 2026

e3 Internship: Jan. 17, 2026

Dates & Duration: May to August

Varies by course selection, see below.

Eligibility Requirements

Open to: All Faculties

Level: Undergraduate / Graduate

GPA: Minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 in the terms with your 24 most recently completed credits, faculty-specific requirements or partner university requirements, whichever is highest

See more detailed Eligibility Requirements here..

Fees & Costs

Nomination Fee: $250

PROGRAM COST: LINK to fee explanation

Fees are subject to change without notice. Students are responsible for their own travel, visa fees, insurance, books and supplies, food, entertainment, and incidental expenses.

Other Expenses: Housing, food, entertainment, etc.

Budget Calculator: Cost of Living Calculator

Program Information

Language of Instruction: English, Portuguese

Note: Module III (Internship) cannot be taken independently. Module III must be combined with either Module I (German Language Studies) and/or Module II (Academic Courses).

Module I (Language): Portuguese 111

Dates: June 8 - 26, 2026

Course Description: A basic course for students with no previous knowledge of Portuguese. Note: not to be taken by students with credit in PORT 100, or with native or near native proficiency or with Portuguese 30 or its equivalents in Canada and other countries.

Module II: Anthropology 485: Community-Based Research and Engagement: Agroecology, Heritage, and Sustainability in Southern Brazil

Dates: June 8 - 26, 2026

Course Description

This course explores how community-based research connects people, place, and sustainability in southern Brazil. Using the shade-grown erva-mate agroforestry system—recognized as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)—as a central case study, students will examine how traditional knowledge, Indigenous practices, and local communities sustain biodiversity and cultural heritage. Through site visits, storytelling, and collaborative projects with community partners, participants will learn ethical and participatory research methods while engaging with real-world examples of environmental stewardship. The course emphasizes respect, reciprocity, and responsibility, inviting students to connect local and global approaches to conservation and social transformation.

Instructor Bio

Dr. Evelyn Nimmo is a Curator and Faculty Member in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Alberta. She specializes in community-based research, agroecology, and cultural heritage, with over 15 years of experience living and working in southern Brazil. Her research bridges anthropology, environmental sustainability, and Indigenous knowledge systems, with a focus on participatory approaches that center local voices. As the coordinator of the Shade-Grown Erva-Mate Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) nomination, Dr. Nimmo has built deep relationships with communities, researchers, and cultural institutions across Paraná, bringing a grounded and collaborative perspective to field-based learning and global engagement.

Module III (Internship with language or academic class)

Dates: May-August*

*Dates approved by internship provider and vary based on host organization

ENSURE YOU HAVE ENROLLED IN A LANGUAGE OR ACADEMIC CLASS BEFORE STARTING THE INTERNSHIP PROCESS.

Upload a preliminary résumé with your initial application so our team can better understand your skills, interests, and potential placement options.

Housing

Students may request that UAI book a homestay during the e3 Brazil program. Student are also welcome to arrange their accommodation.

Students taking advantage of the homestay option must complete a homestay matching form. In most instances, students will be placed with another e3 participant unless otherwise agreed upon. The cost varies depending on the family, but a homestay typically costs approximately $400 CAD per month.