Location:

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

Program Overview

Program Description:

The Southeast Asian Studies Center (SEASC) takes a multi-disciplinary approach offering semester programs focused on human rights and politics, economic development and business, and the cultures and societies of Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Students will earn 15 hours of credit transferable via transcript to their home university. Courses offered include 3 compulsories and 2 electives. Compulsories include Immersive Thai Language, Societies and Cultures of Southeast Asia, Practicum in Sociology and Anthropology. Electives include Comparative Study of Religions in Thailand, Traditional Thai Dance, Globalization of Thai Society, Introduction to ASEAN - Economics, Culture, and Politics. Students are also free to choose electives offered in the general courses within the International College at Payap University.

Our goal is for each student to be immersed in the local culture as fully as possible. This is achieved through intensive language study, visits to cultural heritage sites, living with and walking alongside villagers during village homestays, and visits to Thai cities both ancient and modern. By contextualizing the learning experience, students will be able to internalize what they learn.

Setting Description:

Payap's Mae Khao campus is situated about 15 minutes from downtown Chiang Mai. Students will live with a Thai roommate at Paradon International House on campus or with a Thai family. Learning takes place in the classroom at Payap and around northern Thailand in cities and villages. Downtown Chiang Mai is full of adventures to be found as cafes and markets beckon the explorer to experience new and exciting sights, sounds, smells, and flavors. The mountains surrounding the city offer more opportunities for exploration via hiking, biking, and beautiful waterfalls, not to mention villages and markets with different flavors than the city itself. The beauty and diversity of Chiang Mai make it an ideal study location.