Pioneer Global Problem Solving Institute summer application deadline: May 3, 11:59PM EDT, 2026
Water is essential for life, yet billions of people around the world still lack reliable access. Climate change, pollution, and population growth are making this challenge more complex.
In this college-level online program, you’ll explore environmental geochemistry, public health, engineering, and design solutions. So you can understand water systems and create real world impact.
Billions still lack safe water and sanitation, and pressure on resources is growing. Pollution, climate change, and population growth are worsening scarcity and threatening communities.
Explore water scarcity through environmental science, public health, engineering, and design thinking, developing problem-solving skills and creating solutions to improve access to clean water.
Shenzhen students examine local water pollution and develop innovative ways to improve access to safe water for local communities.
A student team investigates domestic and industrial pollution in the Beressa River and develops strategies to improve safe water access.
Multiple terms: Spring, Summer, Fall
Weekdays: Tuesday or Wednesday evenings (60 min, local time)
Weekend: Saturday morning US Eastern Time (90 min)
Three-month program
Online, globally accessible
The biggest problems get solved like anything else: one step at a time. In GPSI, you’ll break down these massively complex global problems, design solutions, and present your work with guidance from university faculty.
Start by looking closely at essential water access in your area or a place you care about. Identify gaps, contamination, or scarcity issues, and begin thinking critically about ways to solve them.
Look closely at water access challenges in your local area. Spot gaps, contamination, or scarcity, and begin thinking critically about creative ways to solve these challenges.
Share your final project with faculty, peers, and potentially your school. You’ll highlight research, your thinking process, and the impact your solution can have in the real world.
Here, we flip the traditional classroom on its head. You’ll learn on your schedule, u003cbru003e meet deadlines, and engage with faculty in a whole new way.
~2.5 Hours of Live Sessions
~4.5 Hours of Asynchronous Work
Professor of Chemisty & Public Health, Davidson College
Fellow in Political Science, Rice University
Engineering Disciplinary Expert, UNC-Chapel Hill
Systems & Design Thinking Expert, UNC-Chapel Hill
Program Design Consultant, Lafayette College
Environmental Geochemistry Disciplinary Expert, Vassor College
Want to understand why water access is such a global challenge? And how you can help change it? In this college-level research program, you’ll collect data, map systems, and design meaningful solutions with peers worldwide, with guidance from university faculty.
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Thank you for your interest in Pioneer’s Global Problem-Solving Institute (GPSI). The application for the Fall 2025 terms is now available. Please select your country/region below:
