International Development in Thailand

Program Type

Global Partner Program

Program Provider

MSID

Location

Chiang Mai, Thailand

None

About this Program

MSID: International Development in Chiang Mai program offers a powerful combination of academic coursework and hands-on field experience in Chiang Mai. Over the course of the semester, students explore the historical & political context in Thailand —while gaining real-world insight through a six-week internship or research placement with a local organization. Students engage with local communities, take courses in Thai, and engage deeply with Thai culture through daily life and regional excursions. This immersive program is ideal for students seeking meaningful, community-based learning in a Southeast Asian setting. Students can choose between the following focus:

  • Entrepreneurship in Thailand
  • Health in Thailand
  • Human Rights in Thailand
  • Sustainability in Thailand


Program Highlights

Key Benefits:
  • When you study at the University of Minnesota Thailand Study Center, you'll take Thai language courses, elective courses, and participate in an internship or research, all within a program designed specifically for American students. While study center programs typically offer less exposure to local students and follow a more American-style curriculum compared to local universities, this program provides a highly experiential learning environment, making it ideal for an interdisciplinary approach to both your major and language acquisition. MSID 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, personal and professional development, and optional flight assistance.

Level of Immersion

Language(s) of Instruction:

Features

  • Courses with Study Abroad Students
  • Internship Opportunities
  • Language Intensive Program
  • Research Opportunities
  • Study Center Program

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:
  • Apartment

Program Dates

  • Fall Semester: late August to mid-December
  • Spring Semester: mid-January to mid-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

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