Thailand

Program Overview

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Experience the fascinating Thai culture while studying conservation and the incredibly rich diversity of terrestrial and marine life during CAFNR’s three-week winter break study abroad program to Thailand!

Students will experience the remarkable warmth and hospitality of the beautiful Thai people. Starting in Bangkok, students will explore cultural sites such as the Grand Palace and the ancient ruins of Ayuthaya, a UNESCO World Heritages site.

Once outside of Bangkok, students will visit a clouded leopard breeding facility and trek through the tropical forests of Khao Yai National Park where there is an opportunity to see wild elephants, gibbons and exotic birds, including hornbills. Further south, students will learn about mangrove and coral reef conservation along the coastline of the Andaman Sea and explore pristine coral reefs at nearby islands.

Your senses will be overloaded during this life-changing learning experience!

"We got to see some of the world's most spectacular biodiversity in the jungle, in the sky, and under the sea."
— Blair Mobley, Thailand 2006-07

"This study abroad program is a must to gain an understanding of a different culture, way of life and an adventure that you will remember forever!"
- Krista Bock, Thailand 2007-2008

Thailand has something for everyone. Exploring the street markets can provide an overwhelming shopping and cultural experience. Meanwhile, the mountains, waterfalls, beaches, reefs and national parks provide unparalleled spectacular natural beauty.

Location

Thailand is a located in Southeast Asia and is about the size of Texas. It receives more tourists than any other country in Southeast Asia. The weather in Thailand is low 90s (F) and sunny, perfect for winter break.

The MU instructors are Robert Sites, Ph.D., who has been to Thailand over 20 times to teach this class and for research projects, and Roy Robinson, Study Abroad Program Director, who has been to Thailand nine times.

Thailand Activities

Jungle trekking
Bird watching
Scuba diving
Ancient ruins exploring
Elephant riding

Academics

Students earn 6 credits of International Agriculture and Natural Resources (4 credits of 2191 and 2 credits of 2190), which can be allocated for CAFNR students as 4 credits of Humanities (trip) and 2 credits of Ag Elective (fall semester).

Beginning in the fall semester in the classroom, students will study culture, language, and academic aspects of conservation and biodiversity of Thailand. Assignments, presentations, and projects will be used to assess student performance. The trip to Thailand will focus on observing and experiencing what we learned in the classroom.

In Thailand, student assessment will be based on journals, and conduct. The course will be taught in English, although some Thai language skills will be very desirable in markets and elsewhere.

Requirements

3.0 GPA minimum.
Good academic standing.
Scuba certification (before departure).
Good physical condition.

Application Deadline

The absolute deadline is Sept. 1, however, this program fills quickly and accepts only 15 students, so apply early.