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SFS Bhutan: Himalayan Environment and Society in Transition

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1980Year established

Program Overview

Deep in the Himalayas, where few foreigners ever set foot, lies Bhutan—a country of vibrant culture, Buddhist philosophy, and diverse ecosystems. Trek through remote villages and high mountain passes to study environmental issues firsthand and learn what the people are doing to maintain biodiversity and traditional rural lifestyles in transition. Hone your field research skills as you design and carry out an extensive research project on conservation and development issues in the country.

SFS students will live and study at the Center for Himalayan Environment and Development Studies. The Center is at one end of the stunning Paro Valley, at the base of a towering ridgeline dotted with Buddhist monasteries. The campus is a small cluster of buildings designed in traditional Bhutanese architecture. A pleasant 15-minute walk brings you to the markets, shops, and cultural events of Paro Town.

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Program Highlights

Embark on a multi-day cultural trek to experience the natural beauty of Bhutan’s countryside and the traditional lifestyles of its people.
Visit monasteries, such as the famed Tiger’s Nest, and take part in unforgettable tsechus (festivals) to learn more about Buddhism and Bhutanese culture.
Explore Bhutan’s diverse range of biomes through trips to Himalayan ridges, the subtropical Punakha and Chukha Valleys, and the alpine meadows of Phobjikha.
Study research topics including mountain ecology and conservation, climate change, Gross National Happiness, forest management, river ecosystems, agriculture, and urban migration.
Learn core skills including GIS and mapping, species identification, camera trapping and mist-netting, biodiversity surveys, research design and implementation, and data collection and analysis.

What's Included

Tuition & Fees
Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Some Program Activity Costs

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Paro, Bhutan

Fields & Subjects

  • Asian Studies
  • Biology
  • Ecology
  • Economics
  • Environmental Studies
  • Forestry
  • Humanities
  • Liberal Arts
  • Philosophy
  • Religious Studies
  • Social Sciences
  • Statistics
  • Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
  • Geography
  • Development Studies
  • Culture
  • Travel & Tourism
  • Sustainable Development
  • Ethnic Studies
  • Conservation & Preservation
  • Foreign Language
  • Government
  • Natural Sciences
  • Animal Science
  • Science

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • 2026, 2027
  • Terms Available
  • Fall
  • Spring

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Education
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living

Application Procedures

  • Transcript
  • Online Application

Age Requirement

18-30

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