Deep in the Delta: Wintersession in Vietnam

December 26, 2013 – January 19, 2014

DEPARTURE FROM U.S. ON DECEMBER 26 TO ARRIVE IN HO CHI MINH CITY ON DECEMBER 27.

There’s no better time of year to explore Vietnam than during their sun and our gray! Join us on our inaugural exploration of climate change in Vietnam, as we visit the cities, river delta, and beaches of Vietnam. Lively floating markets, quiet riverside villages, and the big city of Saigon: the Mekong Delta is the captivating backdrop for this study of climate change.

The College of Forestry & Conservation, the Mansfield Center, and the Environmental Studies Department have created a unique study abroad opportunity for students to expand their knowledge and experience of climate change in natural ecosystems in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The field-based, experiential classes focus on climate change issues as well as the culture, ecology, economy and history of Vietnam. The program will be led by Dr. Dan Spencer of the Environmental Studies Department and is suitable for students of all backgrounds and majors.

The program has two 300-level courses:

NRSM 391: Society, Economy and Environment of the Mekong Delta, 3 cr

This course is cross-listed as:
ENST 391, ANTY 391, GPHY 391

An introduction to the history, cultures, economy and environment of Vietnam, with particular emphasis on the Mekong Delta region. This course includes a survey of:

• The people, history and socio-economy of Vietnam.
• Historical climate, natural ecosystems and land use in the Mekong Delta.
• Ecology of large floodplain rivers.
• Human impacts on the Mekong Delta and how the Delta’s ecosystems have affected the people.
• Livelihoods of people living in the Delta.
• Past and present Vietnamese government policies related to the Mekong Delta.
• Perceptions and attitudes that local people have about their environment.
• International management of the Mekong River: Laos, Cambodia and China.

NRSM 395: Climate Change Effects and Adaptation in the Mekong Delta, 3 cr

This course is cross-listed as:
ENST 391, ANTY 391, GPHY 391

An analysis of potential threats and opportunities to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change upon the ecosystems and people of the Mekong Delta, including:

• Potential changes in climate and sea level around the Mekong Delta.
• Ecological and socio-economic impacts of climate change in the Mekong Delta
• Economically efficient policies and strategies for adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change on livelihoods, conservation of the environment, protection of infrastructure and urban development.
• Contrast with North American climate change issues and policy options

A sample itinerary is available here.

About the instructor

Click here to read about Dr. Dan Spencer

Students on the January 2011 program blog about their experiences:

Deep in the Delta: Stories from Vietnam

Learn more about how women, especially in poorer countries, are more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change:

Video: Climate Change Impacts on Women in Vietnam

Registration Information

The program cost is $3,950. This includes:

• tuition for 6 upper-division credits (with out-of-state students paying the same as in-state students), and
• a program fee (which covers accommodation at hostels and motels, group activities and excursions, emergency and international health insurance, in-country transportation, and some meals).

Airfare is not included. There is no group airfare, but Dr. Spencer’s itinerary will be provided for those who want to travel with him internationally. We accept students on a rolling admissions basis beginning March 1, 2012.  We encourage you apply as soon as possible so that you can fully prepare for the program and obtain the cheapest possible airfare.  The final application deadline is November 1, 2012.

Application forms can be found on this website.

Interested students with specific questions can contact our office: studyabroad@cfc.umt.edu or the Mansfield Center Project Director Deena Mansour at Deena.mansour@mso.umt.edu