Purpose: To present the School for Field Studies-Centre for Coastal Studies (SFS-CCS) study abroad Mexico program, and consider its relative success as a sustainable development education program. Design/methodology/approach: The SFS-CCS academic model and results of its implementation are presented. Program success is discussed by applying sustainable development education criteria found in the literature, and by sharing feedback from SFS-CCS students, affiliates and clients. Examples of two student projects are also presented to consider program success. Findings: The SFS-CCS academic model structure, which includes a five-year research plan, an interdisciplinary and case study approach, and integration of client needs and community projects, have helped the school meet its sustainable development education goals. Student research projects have also resulted in positive sustainable development outcomes for the surrounding community of Puerto San Carlos. Practical implications: A description of the components of the academic model and recommendations made related to create similarly effective models are provided for study abroad and other sustainable development education institutions. Originality/value: This paper recognizes how a study abroad program can contribute knowledge and lessons learned as part of the larger, global dialogue of how to provide successful sustainable development education.