Request a Catalog | Apply Now | 1.800.585.9658

Study Australia Web Site Study New Zealand Web Site Study Asia Web Site
Username Password  

Sustainable Development in Southeast Asia 

Apply Now!

  • Program Dates – 1st module (Sustainable Development): June 4 (depart US) - June 28, 2009
  • Program Dates – 2nd module (Thai Culture Studies): June 26 (depart US) - July 17, 2009

Students may choose to participate on both modules consecutively, or to participate on one module independent of the other.

The Program

The definition of Sustainable Development is meeting today's needs of development without compromising future generations' ability to develop. Sustainable development does not focus solely on environmental issues. More broadly, sustainable development policies encompass three general policy areas: economic, environmental and social.

This multi-disciplinary program works in two separate modules, integrating the social science disciplines of geography, sociology, political science, economics and law with natural science, as well as examining a general survey of Thai culture and society. Students will formally undertake two courses, or “modules”, taught by faculty from Chiang Mai's Payap University. The first module, “Sustainable Development in Southeast Asia”,  is designed to introduce students to the complexities of development processes and problems in the Mekong region that result from the impact in changes in cultural and political movements, government legislation, economic and trade relations, resource use and health issues. The second module, “Cultural Foundations of Thai Studies” introduces students to Thailand through a general survey of topics on Thai culture and society. Students will focus on the enduring cultural practices and institutions of Thailand, while also emphasizing issues of cultural relativism and cross-cultural evaluation.

Program Locations

The program commences in Bangkok and then travels by overnight train to the program base in northern Thailand in Chiang Mai. Students will attend lectures on campus most mornings and participate in field work and cultural activities most afternoons at Payap University.  In Laos the time is split between Vietianne, the capital of Laos, and the World Heritage listed Luang Prabang township. Students will spend an overnight in a Hmong village, before returning to Chiang Mai for the conclusion of the first module. The program then transitions into the Thai Studies module, in which students will continue their studies at Payap University, examining Thai culture and society. Course study will also incorporate a homestay in the Chaem Village.

Program Highlights

  • Service learning experiences in Laos and Thailand
  • Visit to Doi Suthep National Park
  • Visit to Pangmapha in Mae Hong Song Provinces
  • Overnight treks to Hmong and Karen Villages
  • Luang Prabang World Heritage Town
  • Chaem Village Homestay
  • Chiang Mai Khantoke Traditional Dinner
  • Thai Cooking School
  • English speaking and experienced local guides in all locations

Accommodations

The program will utilize on-campus single dormitory style rooms while in Chiang Mai at Payap University. Small comfortable hotels will be used throughout the remainder of the program with students in twin-share rooms. All accommodations are in located in areas that allow students to safely enjoy the program destinations.

Program Fee

Fees for each module are an estimated $2,200 per module. Students participating on both modules will receive a program fee discount of approximately $300. Students should also budget for an estimated $1,500 to $1,800 for international and domestic airfare. The program fee includes all accommodation, comprehensive arrival orientation, ground transportation, academic credit, various excursions and tours, entrance fees to National Parks, cultural centers, etc. and many meals. Students will incur additional costs for personal spending, additional meals and extra travel. A full itinerary is provided upon acceptance to the program.

Travel

The Education Abroad Network will offer suggested flights from the United States to/from Southeast Asia. We will also arrange all internal flights/transfers within the region. Upon acceptance into the program, participants will be provided complete airfare details.

Credit

Participants in the program are able to obtain credits through universities and colleges in the United States. Grades will be posted on a Payap University transcript. Credit transfer (generally 3 - 4 U.S. credits per course/module, 6 – 8 credits total) is subject to home institution regulations so please consult your academic advisor for guidance.

2009 Courses

  • 1. Sustainable Development in Southeast Asia: 3 – 4 credits
  • 2. Cultural Foundations of Thai Studies: 3 – 4 credits

The Education Abroad Network will provide all documentation to institutions to assist in credit transfer.

Eligibility

In order to participate on the program students must be currently enrolled in a degree-granting institution, have completed one year of coursework on a college or university campus by the program start date, and achieved a minimum GPA of 2.75/4.0.  However applications will be reviewed by examining the student’s overall application materials including: Course of Study, Letters of Recommendation, and Personal Statement. If you fall below the GPA requirement, please contact The Education Abroad Network to discuss your eligibility to participate in the program. There are no pre-requisites required.

Optional 5-day Excursion

Students interested in lengthening their stay in Southeast Asia are invited to participate on an Optional 5-Day excursion upon conclusion of the second module. This optional trip will include travel to Hanoi, Vietnam. Students interested in this excursion will be given further details upon acceptance into the program.

Submitting an Application

Interested students can apply on-line or download the program application.

There is a $30 application fee. In addition, after acceptance there is a $500 deposit. The deposit is fully refundable, less a $75 administrative fee, should students withdraw by March 15, 2009. After March 15, 2009, the deposit is not refundable.

Application Deadline: Applications are assessed on a rolling basis. We suggest interested students apply by April 15, 2009, to avoid disappointment.

A pre-departure package for the program will be sent to the applicant once accepted into the program.

 

© 1997-2010 The Education Abroad Network  |   Home  |   About Us  |   Contact Us  |   Privacy Policy  |   Site Map

© 1997-2010 The Education Abroad Network  |  An Adventure In MIND  |  1.800.585.9658