SIT-Geoscience in the Himalaya

Program Details

Program Location Kathmandu, Nepal
Sponsor SIT
Program Type Co-sponsored
Course # SA 30048
Duration Summer
Upcoming Program Dates
Summer 2025 05/31/25 to 07/20/25
Page Links
Click here to apply for this program!
Please Note: Programs may be altered or adapted with little notice

Overview

SIT-Geoscience in the Himalaya

As the tallest mountain range in the world and home to diverse and vibrant cultures, the Himalaya are a preeminent place to study geoscience. The geological contrasts within the country of Nepal are dramatic and unequalled: from the flat Ganges River plain near sea level to the highest point on Earth—Mt. Everest.

In this program, students will engage in classic field geologic skill development and innovative inquiry of human-Earth systems. The program focuses on field geoscience, geohazards, and environmental science in the context of human interactions and sustainable development in Nepal.

  • Study how immense mountain ranges form and continually transform.
  • Investigate the hazards and benefits of living in a dynamic natural environment.
  • Conduct field research and acquire proficiency in geologic field techniques.
  • Analyze human interaction with Earth systems.
  • Examine how societal decisions affect the geohazard risks faced by human populations.
  • Analyze steps for risk reduction that align with sustainable development practices.
For more program information, please visit the program website. This program is sponsored by:SIT.

Eligibility

SIT-Geoscience in the Himalaya

The program is open to Purdue students who have completed at least two semesters of university study by the start of the program. Successful candidates will demonstrate academic success, maturity and a desire to experience another culture.

Prerequisites: At least two upper division (above the 100-level) geoscience, environmental science, or physical geography courses.

GPA Requirement: 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
Language Requirement: none


Purdue Credit

Direct Credit available from the following: [College of Science]
Specifically from: EAPS (SCI)

Students interested in completing courses while abroad from Purdue colleges or departments that are not listed above should discuss this with their study abroad advisor before applying to the program.


Academic Program

Students take three classes for a total of nine credits, including a geology field study project. Click here for course descriptions and syllabi.

Excursions

Due to COVID-19, excursions are subject to change.

Following the initial orientation (approximately four days) in Kathmandu, students will spend approximately six weeks conducting Earth science fieldwork in the High Himalaya and Middle Hills regions of central and western Nepal.

Housing

While on excursions, students’ accommodations will include guest houses and small hostels (called tea houses) as well as possibly dormitory-style housing. During the time in Kathmandu, students will stay in small tourist hotels near the SIT program office located in the city’s Boudha neighborhood.

Estimated Program Costs

Students pursuing program participation accept financial responsibility. Purdue will take measures to mitigate financial risks, although will not be liable for loss.
 
Students should carefully note what costs need to be paid to Purdue University or to a co-sponsor or agency, and what costs need to be paid at the overseas study location.  This will vary by program.

SIT's program and housing fees include: tuition for nine credits, insurance, housing/accommodations, all meals, and on-site orientation.

Costs for this program are estimated and subject to change. The cost figures listed below are for: Summer 2025

Costs per term to be billed by Purdue and Co-sponsor
Program Fee $8,816.00
Study Abroad Fee $609.40
Housing $2,942.00
Purdue International Insurance (per month) $32.00
Program Discount for Purdue Students - $1,500.00

Approximate additional costs per term
To be paid by the student.
Round-trip Airfare $1,950.00
Visa $125.00
Books and Supplies $50.00
Miscellaneous Personal Expenses $0.00 - $300.00
Travel Documents (passport, photos) $175.00

Financial Aid

Purdue University financial aid may be applied to the costs of studying abroad. Students interested in receiving financial aid should

NOTE:  Recipients of certain tuition remission and scholarship programs should pay careful attention to the regulations for using those benefits for study abroad.  Ask your financial aid advisor about any limitations.

Click here for a list of scholarships and grants available to assist with the costs of studying overseas.


Application Deadlines

For full consideration, students must submit all supporting documents (typically an essay, transcripts, 1-2 recommendations, and copy of passport) before or by the application deadline.  Popular programs fill quickly, often before the deadline. To ensure a place in a program, apply early.

As soon as a student submits an online application, a My Study Abroad account is created. Applicants should consult this page often to check on the status of the application.

Program Application Deadline
Summer Programs Mar 1



Returnees Information

SIT-Geoscience in the Himalaya

Click below to search for Purdue students who have participated in this program and are willing to be contacted.  If you get no results, you can use the search form to find people who studied in the country you are interested in.


Resources

The websites listed below contain information about this program. The accuracy of information at external sites cannot be guaranteed.


For more information on this program, please contact the Study Abroad Office by phone (765) 494-2383 or email studyabroad@purdue.edu.