Summer in Kerala

  India

Trivandrum

Term: Summer 
Dates: Early June - Early August

Description: Pre-Session: Students have a mandatory two day orientation in Madison immediately before departure.

Requires: Students must take 6 to 9 credits. These include Languages and Cultures of Asia 910-468 ('Peoples and Cultures of Southern India' - 3 cr.) and Theatre and Drama 942-585 ('Topics in Theatre and Drama: Study Abroad - 3-6 cr.)

Types of Courses Avail: For their 'Topics in Theatre and Drama' students may receive training in kathakali (Kerala's indigenous dance-drama enacted texts based on epics), mohiniattam (Kerala's indigenous lyrical form of female 'classical' dance), bharata natyam (Tamilnadu's form of 'classical' dance), kalarippayattu (Kerala's indigenous form of martial art), South Indian (Karnatak) vocal music, South Indian (Karnatak) instrumental music and various levels and forms of yoga.

Highlights: The seaport of Thiruvananthapuram is surrounded by miles of coconut palms, beaches and backwaters. The city itself is filled with unique neighborhoods and lanes, dotted with temples, mosques, and churches. The state of Kerala (pronounced CARE-ala) has the highest literacy rates in India. The famous 9th century Hindu philosopher, Shankaracharya, was born in Kerala and for centuries Kerala has maintained unique Vedic rituals as well as martial arts.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: WI Residents - 3,950; MN Reciprocity - 4,050; Non-Residents - 4,150

Experience Required: no

Participants Travel to India in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Transcript
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home