Location:

Kunming, China

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

Program Overview

Program Description:

Explore China’s national language, Mandarin (Putonghua), and extraordinary cultural diversity in Yunnan Province with the option to earn up to 10 language credits in Chinese.

Based in Kunming (Yunnan Province), this program examines the social, historical, and cultural factors shaping and sustaining China’s minority communities. Topics of study include: Traditional Chinese cultures and beliefs The growing gap between urban and rural life in China The impact of tourism on minority cultures Students learn from leaders at academic institutions and nongovernmental organizations such as Yunnan Nationalities University, the Yunnan Arts Institute, The Yunnan Traditional Medicine Hospital, and the Lijiang Dongba Cultural Research Institute. Yunnan Province serves as a hub of NGO activity in China allowing students to closely examine the evolution and modes of operation by which these organizations must work with the government in order to accomplish their objectives.
 

Setting Description:

Students on the China: Language, Cultures, and Ethnic Minorities study abroad program explore the complexity of China's population and develop a deeper understanding of the key social, historical, and cultural issues at work in minority communities. Highlights Include: Initial program orientation in Kunming and the traditional town of Tonghai - students live alongside their Chinese counterparts at the Yunnan Nationalities University Daily Taiji exercise A Yunnan Exploration Project Homestay in Kunming Minority areas field excursion with a rural homestay in the Bai minority village of Shaxi An Independent Study Project (ISP) Each program component exposes students to the complex and varied challenges and opportunities facing China specifically with respect to the country's minority populations. Students engage with a broad array of knowledge centers, and lecturers are drawn from a wide variety of local institutions and organizations.

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

Please see our website for more information.