- City: Paro Town
- Term: Fall, Winter, Summer
- Instruction in: English
- Requirements: Semester: One college-level Ecology, Biology, or Environmental Studies/Science course; Summer: No academic prerequisites
- Students interested in: Earth and Environmental Sciences; EEB, Environment, Sustainability
Semester: Students will explore and trek through remote villages and high Himalayan mountain passes to experience Bhutan’s vibrant culture, Buddhist philosophy, and environmental issues firsthand. This unique 15 week program offers the opportunity to learn about the challenges of maintaining biodiversity and traditional rural lifestyles in a time of transition. Students can take up to 18 credits where they can develop skills in field research and data collection, and apply them to a research project on conservation and development issues in Bhutan. Courses include Religion and Culture of Bhutan; Political and Socioeconomic Dimensions of Environment; Land Use, Natural Resources, and Conservation; Mountain Ecology, and Directed Research.
Summer: Explore the rich culture, biodiversity, and dramatic mountain views of the Bhutanese Himalayas. Spend six weeks and earn six credits studying issues of conservation and development, visiting ancient shrines, and surveying big cats and forests in one of the most fascinating countries in the world. Trek across forested ridges and remote villages, camp out under the stars and learn about Bhutanese culture and ecosystems firsthand. The program includes two days in Bangkok, Thailand before the program starts to explore the city and to ensure travel to Bhutan on the same flight.
The program is physically demanding because of the altitude, weather and terrain. Communication and internet access in Bhutan can be limited at times.
