Description

Bhutan is nestled in the remote and rugged eastern Himalayan region, an area characterized by extensive and numerous mountains and valleys, the world's highest peaks, and a diversity of vegetation types and unique animal species. The country has also been identified as one of the top-10 biodiversity hot spots in the world. Bhutan is home to an estimated 770 species of birds and an astonishing variety of medicinal plants and orchids. Takin, snow leopards, golden langurs, blue sheep, tigers, water buffalo, and elephants are among Bhutan's diverse wildlife. Traveling across Bhutan, students will learn about Bhutanese culture, environmental issues, and rural development.

Highlights

SFS is partnering with the Ugyen Wangchuck Institute for Conservation and Environment, an international research and training facility in Bhutan. SFS students and faculty will help the Institute advance its research agenda in several priority areas, including community and private forest management, the role of non-timber forest products in rural livelihood, human-wildlife conflict in agricultural areas, and pollution of fields and waterways.

After a few days of cultural orientation and acclimatization in the capital city of Thimpu, students drive through four major vegetation zones on the journey to the field station. Field visits to community forestry projects and agricultural areas and multi-day expeditions, with wilderness camping, to neighboring valleys, national parks, and along established eco-trails; day hikes and multi-day treks to 4,000m.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

• Agriculture
• Economics
• Forestry
• Natural Resources
• Sustainable Development

Cost in US$:

Inquire for more info

Program Fees Include:

Cost includes all tuition, room, and board

Experience Required

yes

A natural science course: Ecology, Environmental Science, Resource Management (or forestry), Conservation Biology; A Social Science course: Anthropology, Development, or Environmental Studies.

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory

Participants Travel

in Groups

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 4-6

Scholarships are Available

SFS scholarships; 0% and low interest loans

Typically The Application Process Time is

a few weeks

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

The School for Field Studies's Mission Statement

SFS creates transformative study abroad experiences through field-based learning and research. Our educational programs explore the human and ecological dimensions of the complex environmental problems faced by our local partners, contributing to sustainable solutions in the places where we live and work. The SFS community is part of a growing network of individuals and institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

Year Founded

1980