Himalayan and Buddhist Peoples
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About this Program
The dynamics of the high Himalayan region span from ancient times to the present day. Discover the history of the region’s borders, religious belief systems, and deep cultural and historical connections to South, Inner, and East Asia. Learn about the development of Buddhism, born in Nepal, and its deep cultural roots and connections to ancient pilgrimage routes and sacred sites. Spend six weeks in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, in the neighborhood of Boudha, centered around the world heritage Boudhanath Stupa and home to a significant high Himalayan Buddhist community. Learn about the traditional system of Himalayan medicine, Sowa Rigpa, from an Amchi at his healing center on the valley’s periphery. Explore ancient pilgrimage routes and learn about the synchronicity between Buddhism and Hinduism in Nepal. Discover intangible cultural heritage on a walk through Patan Old Town. Deconstruct popular myths about the Himalayas, engaging in discussions with local peers. Take a high-altitude trek to learn from mountain communities about the complexities of language and identity in the borderlands. Learn Tibetan language as well as the national language Nepali. Conduct independent field study or gain professional skills in an intercultural internship.
Program Highlights
- When you study at SIT's Study Center, you'll take language and elective courses under the thematic focus of the program, all designed specifically for American students. While study center programs typically offer less exposure to local students and follow a more American-style curriculum than local universities, this program is ideal for students seeking academic challenging curriculum, independence, and immersion in the local community. SIT supports you with pre-departure advising & support, visa-related support, airport reception, onsite orientation, onsite staff support, 24/7 emergency assistance, comprehensive global medical insurance, housing & meals, cultural activities, excursions, and personal and professional development.
Level of Immersion
Language(s) of Instruction:
- English
Features
- Courses with Study Abroad Students
- Language Intensive Program
- No Language Pre-Requisites
- Research Opportunities
- Study Center Program
- Experiential Field Study
- Internship Opportunities
Housing Abroad
- Students arrange and pay for housing directly through the Global Partner or its housing provider. See the Budget Worksheet for estimated housing costs. Available housing options:
- Homestay
Program Dates
- Fall Semester: early September to mid-December
- Spring Semester: early-February to late-May
Housing at Seattle University
Moving can be both costly and stressful, but careful planning can help minimize both. Start by creating a housing plan for before and after your study abroad experience to avoid the pressure of continuing to pay for rent at home. Program fees typically cover housing abroad, so if you expect to incur additional domestic rent expenses, be sure to include these in your budget. If possible, consider staying with family or friends temporarily before you depart or when you return to save on costs.
Housing Residence Life
Education Abroad typically recommends considering Seattle University on-campus housing for when students return from their programs, as Housing Residence Life staff are able to support students in securing housing, while adhering to student preferenceas best as they can.
Housing Application
Check the Housing Portal for more specific dates
- Winter Quarter Housing applications open in November
- Spring Quarter Housing applications open in February
- Fall Quarter Housing applications open in May