Study Abroad Through Dragons-Naropa: Himalayas

Good for: Students interested in studying issues about traditional art, traditional medicine, Buddhist and Hindu religions, Tibetan culture or global economic development.

Overview

The Dragons Himalaya semester abroad program will be largely based in the Kathmandu valley, an ancient crossroads and melting pot of Himalayan peoples, where students will encounter the convergence of deep traditions with modern life.  While living with host families and studying Nepali language, students will have the opportunity to meet with local scholars and activists and learn about Nepal's history, politics and culture while pursuing a wide range of possible independent study and service-learning projects.

For the Independent Study Project, students find areas of personal interest to explore in depth during our time in Kathmandu.  Bronze casting, jewelry making, stone carving, thangka (Buddhist iconography) painting, and music are just a few of the apprenticeship opportunities available.  Students interested in traditional medicine can work with a Tibetan doctor or with Ayurvedic practitioners.  With a wide range of NGOs, Kathmandu also offers unparalleled opportunities to learn about the challenges and potential Nepal's traditional society faces with rapid modernization.  

The study of religious traditions is a central component of our semester as the basic principles of Buddhism, Hinduism and shamanism are introduced.  We will attend a 10-day meditation retreat and receive an introductory course on Tibetan Buddhism while living with Tibetan monks at a monastery overlooking the Kathmandu valley.

From Kathmandu we will go to the foothills of the Himalaya to explore rural Nepali village life as we settle in to the slower pace offered here without electricity and learn about subsistence living.  We also venture higher into the Himalayas of Nepal where we spend time among high altitude Buddhist farming communities and travel for a week at elevations reaching over 15,000 ft through one of the most ruggedly beautiful and dramatic areas on earth.

Course Descriptions

Dates for Fall 2012 Semester: Sept 6 – Dec 8, 2012 (Coursework begins a month before departure and is done at home.)

Dates for Spring 2013 Semester: Feb 9 – May 12, 2013 (Coursework begins a month before departure and is done at home.)

Cost:

  • Naropa tuition*:          $13,755
  • Room:                          $2,800
  • Board:                          $845
  • TOTAL:                       $17,400

*Tuition includes 12-16 credit hours plus in-country travel and excursions.

Additionally, you will be responsible for:

  • Airfare:                        Approximately $1,800
  • Travel insurance:        Approximately $400
  • Visa:                            $170
  • Books & supplies:       Approximately $125
  • Immunizations:            Varies
  • Personal expenses:    Varies

Scholarships are available to offset all of these costs. Your state and federal financial aid plus Naropa aid (scholarships/grants) apply for this Dragons' program. Work-study monies do not apply.

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