Information Program overview and application information. Sustainable Development Studies, a six month study-abroad program for American undergraduate students, is an academically challenging experiential learning program focused on the questions surrounding what "sustainability" means in a globalized world. Rigorous classroom study and seminars are coupled with experiential "field based" learning opportunities with NGOs, synthesizing readings, courses and experiences.

Students on a field visit with the Highland People's Environmental Preservation Network.

The Sustainable Development Studies program looks at the impact of globalization and local level responses by focusing specifically on the question of ''sustainable development'' and the work of NGOs (Non-Governmental Development Organizations). This program gives students an opportunity to step outside of their own culture and political/economic context, and to learn by experiencing and seeing the ''struggle for survival'' first-hand in the context of Northern Thailand and the Mekong Region.

The Kalamazoo program is run through the International Sustainable Development Studies Institute at the Faculty of Economics, Chiang Mai University.

While the different semester schedules of American and Thai universities as well as language barriers do not allow students on the program to enroll directly in Chiang Mai University courses, the program has been designed to be integrated into university life as much as possible.

• All classes are held at the Faculty of Economics, during the same hours as regular Chiang Mai University classes.
• In addition to their primary instructor, each course also has guest speakers from Chiang Mai University, drawing on the world class scholars in fields such as economics, ecology, sociology, political science, agriculture and others.
• Thai university students also participate in field visits alongside the American students, sharing learning challenges and opportunities.
• All of the courses and guest lectures are open to Thai students and faculty, providing an added perspective in our courses.

Students entering the 21st century--in every major field of study--are going to be dealing with an increasingly globalized world. This program has been designed to prepare students for living and working in a world characterized by:

• globalization,
• international multi-culturalism,
• questions of sustainable development, and
• cross-cultural learning and living as a daily fact of life.

Students from any major may apply to the program. However, some background in social science or development will be helpful. If students do not have such a background, additional pre-departure readings may be assigned.

Students must be in good academic standing and willing to take seriously the challenges (and rewards) of studying and living in a cross-cultural context.

Please contact the Center for International Programs at Kalamazoo College for specific requirements.

Interested students should contact:

Kalamazoo College
Center for International Programs
1200 Academy Street
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49006 USA
Phone: 616-337-7133
Fax: 616-337-7400
E-mail: cip@kzoo.edu