Tibet — Rooftop of the World

Tibet is the earth's highest ecosystem and one of the most remarkable places in Asia. During your study abroad program in Tibet you will see stunning views of the world's highest mountains and one of the world's most isolated regions on earth.

Tibet has always captured the minds and imaginations of travelers over the centuries. It is believed Buddha prophesied 2500 years ago that his teachings would leave India and travel to Tibet, the Land of Snows. Not only did Buddhism reach Tibet, it even surpassed India in its Buddhist heyday. For more than a thousand years, Tibet dedicated itself completely to the nonviolent teachings of Buddhism.

During your study abroad program in Tibet you will study Tibetan Buddhism in many of Tibet's most sacred temples and monasteries. You will come to learn why the Tibetans are one of the world's most gentle and compassionate people.

Course Description

This intensive study abroad program to Tibet is offered in the summer and begins in Beijing where you study one of the oldest living cultures in the world — China. Learn the history and study the architecture of the Forbidden City, The Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall of China before departing to Tibet. In Tibet the focal point of study is Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and art. Receive lectures from prominent Tibetan lamas on Buddhist philosophy and meditation at a different monastery each day. The monastery is the classroom with daily lectures and meditation. Study sacred art in local artist studios and foundries, and Tibet's living museums — its monasteries. Experience Tibet's physical environment and the world's highest ecosystem at the base camp of Mount Everest.

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Course Objectives

• To learn and study the religious and cultural traditions of Tibet.
• To observe religious festivals, temple worship and religious rituals.
• To examine and practice Buddhist meditation with a "hands on" approach so that the student fully understands the practice and theory of Buddhist meditation theory being taught.
• To learn the timeless traditions of creating Buddhist sacred art and to learn its symbolic meaning.
• To study with local artists to learn how the art is created and how it is used as a visualization aid in Buddhist meditation.
• To experience directly the monumentality and symbolism of Buddhist architecture.