Overview

Sichuan University in partnership with GlobaLinks Learning Abroad, offers students an amazing 6-week summer program where participants will gain unparalleled insight into the study of Tibetan culture while also learning Mandarin language. 

The Tibet Studies class will expand participant’s knowledge of Tibetan civilization both practically and theoretically. A field component is included which will lead participants to a Tibetan Village so they can better conceptualize and apply what is learned in class.

Location

The Tibetan Studies and Mandarin Language Program is offered through Sichuan University, which is located in Chengdu, China. 

Chengdu is the capital of the Sichuan Province, home to approximately 10 million people, and is located in southwest China at the western edge of the Sichuan Basin. It is known as one of the most important economic centers and is a major transportation and communication hub in China. Historically, it has played an important role in the political, economical, cultural, and military development of southwest China. Chengdu is regarded as the starting point of the Southern Silk Road and is the gateway to the Tibet Autonomous Region. The surrounding region is famous for its three unique characteristics: beautiful scenery, Bashu Culture, and home of the Giant Pandas.

Learn morea about Chengdu and China.

Academic Highlights

The language class consists of 48 hours of instruction designed for students with beginner-level language skill. For an additional cost, students can choose to take intermediate (additional 2400 yuan) or advanced (additional 3600 yuan) Mandarin courses. To compliment the language learning experience a lecture series will be conducted each week on Chinese culture, history, politics, economy, Sino-US relations, religion, and law.

The Global Tibet Class consists of 53 hours of instruction to cover a wide variety of topics regarding Tibet.  

Excursions to local areas of cultural interest will take place each week and participants will interact with local students through organized activities on and off campus. Some examples include: Sichuan Opera, Leshan Giant Buddha, Panda Breeding and Research Center, local museums and sports. 

The program is generally worth 6 U.S. credits, depending on the home university.

Housing

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad students attending Sichuan University are invited to live on-campus in student dormitories. Limited single and twin shared accommodation is available with private bathroom and shower. Bedding, desks, chairs, and Internet access is provided. Cafeterias and local restaurants are within close proximity to the dorms.

Scholarships Available

GlobaLinks Learning Abroad strives to offer the most reasonable abroad fees to Asia.  To further enhance the affordability of the semester/year study abroad programs, we encourage you to apply for scholarships through all available scholarship sources.  Learn more about our scholarship opportunities.

Special Progams/Excursions

Some of the unique features of the Tibetan Studies and Mandarin Language program include:

• 48 hour Mandarin language class
• Tibetan Studies Class with field trip to a Tibetan Village
• Weekly lecture series on China studies 
• Weekly excursions to places of cultural interest 
• Planned activities with local Chinese students
   

Enhance your Experience

Global Citizens Development Modules

The new Global Citizen Development modules are online learning components designed to help you explore your study abroad destination and experience at a whole new level. These modules are not mandatory, however we strongly encourage your participation as they will introduce you to the opportunities and challenges you may encounter when participating in a study abroad program, as well as expose you to cultural insights and knowledge about your host country to help make your program abroad even more successful and fulfilling. Through the 3 modules, you will refine your skills in cross-cultural observation, adaptation, and communication. 

Learn the Local Language!

• LiveMocha - Prior to departure you will receive information and instruction for, LiveMocha, an online language learning program to help you learn your host language. Learn at varying levels and at your own speed. Get started now!
• Lonely Planet Guide & Phrase Book - For both language learning and culture/history/country specific inforamton you will receive a Lonely Planet Guide and Phase book before departure, which will allow you to start planning your adventures and learning how to communicate with locals.
• Additional Language Resources - To even further your language skill take a look at some of these optional language learning tools.

Being Prepared for your Time Abroad

GlobaLinks Learnign Abroad is there to help you through every step of the study abroad process! This includes making sure you are prepared for your time abroad! Due to the short length of the summer programs we are not able to offer our renowned multi-day orientation known as the Bridging Cultures Program. However we do still offer services that are tailored to helping you have the best experience possible. These include one-on-one pre-departure advising and group webinars prior your departure. The goal of the webinar is to help answer any final questions you may have and to fully prepare you for a summer of personal, social, academic, cultural, and professional Discovery!

Course Catalog

• Global Tibet: Tibetan Studies class syllabus
• Mandarin Language class syllabus
• View a sample Course Schedule

For any questions about the classes offered through this program please email studyabroad@globalinksabroad.org!

Slideshow

View photos of Chengdu and Sichuan University:

Fees

Fee Includes

Program Fees are in US dollars and include tuition, accommodation, official transcript, overseas health coverage, introductory survival language training, program field trips, and pre-trip services such as: orientation materials, visa-processing service and fee, personal advising, subject selections, liaison with your home university, credit transfer assistance, financial aid services, and alumni support.

Fee Advice

Dates

Entry Requirements

Programs in Asia Coordinator

Name: Krista Lane Title: Coordinator, Outreach and Student Services Department: BIO: Krista holds an M.A. in Political Science with a B.A. in Political Science and Spanish, and a minor in International Relations. She studied abroad her junior year of college in Sevilla, Spain, and having traveled internationally since an early age, seeks every opportunity to go to new destinations. Having previously worked as a university advisor in multiple capacities, Krista has developed a passion for international education and looks forward to helping students discover their own journey. Other travels include: Costa Rica, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Switzerland, Ireland, England, Italy, Austria, Singapore, Laos, and Vietnam.