International Sustainable Development Studies Institute
People, Ecology and Development

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Frequently Asked Questions
General
What sorts of programs do you run?

We run study-abroad programs which are both long term (semester to academic year) and short term (4-6 weeks). Our focus is on the issues around sustainable development and the environment, enabled by deep cultural immersion and leadership development.

What is Chiang Mai like?

Chiang Mai is a small modern metropolitan city, which, at first glance, is much like other urban areas around the globe. However, upon living and studying in the city students will learn that Chiang Mai is uniquely Thai, and not simply a replica of other cities.

How much does the People, Ecology and Development study-abroad program cost?

Please see the Apply page for the latest schedule of fees. Scholarships are available (from $500 to $3,500) and depending on the policies of your home institution, other finanical aid may apply.

What is included in the fees for the People, Ecology and Development study abroad program?

The fees includes room and board while on the program, a stipend for living expenses, and books and readers. Fees do not cover airfare to Thailand or equipment rental fees if any.

I'm not in college or university, but I'd like to go on one of your courses. Can I audit a course?

Not at this time. Currently all courses are limited to students enrolled in a college or university degree granting program. However, we do offer custom courses for groups of 6 to 12 people. If you are interested, please contact us.

I've read about your internship programs and work with NGOs. Can you place me with an internship or volunteer program at a Thai NGO?

If you have been on one of our programs, or are on an college or university program working with ISDSI, we can help you with a placement. Unfortunately, at this time we are not able to place people with internships who have not already gone through one of our programs or are not attending an affiliated school.
Pre-departure
Do I need health insurance?

YES. Most likely you will have to pay upfront for medical expenses in Thailand and then ask to be reimbursed from your health insurance company.

What shots/medicine do I need?

The Center for Disease Control CDC is a good source of information on what immunizations are recommended for Thailand (www.cdc.gov/travel). Please refer to the Student Handbook section on health for more information before making decisions about what shots to get before coming to Thailand.

What do I need to pack?

Please read and carefully follow the comprehensive gear list we provide for you. In addition, read the Clothing Expectations section of the student handbook for more information on culturally appropriate dress in Thailand.
Academic program
How much credit will I earn?

The assignment of specific credit is determined by your college or university. Generally all ISDSI courses are worth 4 hours of semester credit, for a total of 16 hours per semester.

What level are the courses?

The Foundations course is an introductory level course for Thai language. The Expedition Field Courses are upper division (300 or 400 level), due to their integration of both social and natural science components. Specific credit levels, as well as meeting requirements for general education or your major are determined by your home college or university.

In what ways is the program challenging?

All ISDSI programs are VERY challenging. You will need to adjust to a new country, a new culture, and new way of learning (experiential education). The three main areas in which ISDSI challenges students are academically, physically, and emotionally. We run a challenging program because, when pushed, students gain a deeper understanding of both culture and ecology.

Do I need to be in really great shape, or have a lot of outdoor experience to attend?

While many of our courses are physically as well as academically demanding, they are designed so that anyone in reasonable shape can complete them. Certainly if you are in excellent shape it will be easier, but anyone who exercises regularly should do fine. To prepare for the program we recommend that students exercise for one hour at least three times a week. We have found that students who do this are better able to focus on the academic requirements of the program.

Where would I live during one of the semester or academic year programs?

Students live with Thai host families at the start of the program. On semester programs students move into off-campus dorms after living with host families. While in villages, we usually stay with host families there as well. Some of our course locations (such as islands) may involve camping. Generally accommodations are simple but adequate, and obviously vary a great deal between an urban host family and a tribal villager.

How hard is Thai to learn? I'm not good at languages.

Thai can be initially challenging, since it is tonal and it uses a different alphabet. However, since our language teachers have taught for the US Peace Corps, they have designed a language program to help students develop language skills very quickly. Many students are able to carry on simple conversations after the first week of class, and most test at intermediate or intermediate high at the end of a semester. We have had a number of students use Thai to meet their foreign language requirement for graduation. If you are interested in that option, please talk to the appropriate person at your college or university.
Other
I'm worried about bird flu. What is going on in Thailand?

Currently bird flu (avian influenza) is a risk primarily for people in close and on-going contact with infected birds (e.g. poultry farm workers). For more information, please see our Avian Influenza information page.

I'm a student/faculty/visitor/development worker in the area, and would like to stop by and learn more about your program and/or use your resource center library. Can I do that?

Sure! Please be sure to call first to make sure the people you need to talk to are at the Institute. Generally our library is open M-F 9-4.

I'm a grad student/faculty member and will be doing research in the area. Can I affiliate with ISDSI?

If you are interested in affiliation, please email us at info@isdsi.org

I'm interested in keeping up to date with ISDSI. How can I sign up for the ISDSI Announcements mailing list?

To sign up for our email list, visit this page. This is a low volume mailing list, with important ISDSI related announcements and news.
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