The Nepal Cross Cultural is designed to serve as an introduction to the culture and history of South Asia facilitated by academic study complemented by three weeks of travel and living in Nepal. Nepal, till recently, was the last Hindu kingdom in the world and straddles the beautiful Himalayan mountain ranges—and presents a complex mosaic of languages, ethnicities, and religions. Both an ancient land and yet a relatively new nation, Nepal presents a unique opportunity to view the diverse forces at work in this part of the world. This course also seeks to prepare our students to be interculturally and spiritually competent within a globally interconnected world. Prior to our departure for Nepal in May 2014, we will have three two hour meetings in Spring 2014 with designated readings and book reviews. We hope to depart for Nepal in the week following Commencement and return within 21 days thereof. Our stay will be primarily in the Kathmandu valley where we will visit sites of cultural importance, experience homestays, attend lectures on a variety of subjects including some introductory classes in Nepali. We will also have some opportunity to engage some development related projects.
Estimated Course Fee: $3,800

Faculty Biography:

Dr. Bernardo A. Michael is an associate professor in the Department of History. He has lived and worked in India and Nepal for nearly 35 years. His special areas of interest include the modern history of the subcontinent (including Nepal), cross cultural living, diversity and global education.

Dr. David K. Foster is a professor of Biology and Environmental Science and Chair of the Sustainability Studies Major Committee. He is a veteran of several other Cross Cultural courses and is looking forward to this time in Nepal. His special areas of interest include cross cultural living, identity formation in indigenous peoples, and sustainable integration of human cultural with the natural world.


Other Information:

Course Overview.doc