This is a study program where students must carry a 15 credit load and are expected to fully participate in all class activities. 

Philosophy: Introduction to Eastern Philosophy (5 credits)

Instructor: Rebeka Ferreira [about me]

This course introduces students to eastern philosophies and helps them to understand the philosophical similarities among these philosophies, especially as they relate to reality, value, knowledge, and religion. Topics may include: Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Mohism, and Daoism. [GRC PHIL 220]

Humanities: Women and World Religions (5 credits)

Instructor: Rebeka Ferreira

This course explores feminine perspectives of religion and spirituality in classical and indigenous religions today and throughout history. We will examine images of the divine, mythological presentations, as well as roles and practices of women in each tradition through the study of traditional writings, feminist themes and feminist theologies. In doing so, we will address questions such as: What do sacred sources in traditional religions say about women and issues of gender; and how both men and women in society have used oral and written sacred narratives. [GRC HUM 224]

Chinese I  (5 credits)

Instructor: USC faculty

This course is beginner level for students who have no background familiarity with Mandarin. The course starts from Mandarin phonetic symbols and Pinyin, with an emphasis on pronunciation, intonations and simple conversations. [GRC CHIN &121]

The University of Shih Chien (USC), is conveniently located on a metro line in the Zhongshan District of Taipei. This quiet area nestled beneath a green hillside is just a short ride from the hustle and bustle of downtown Taipei. The friendly atmosphere and artistic environment create an ideal learning community. The university is also home to many international students, providing visiting students with an entry point to a globalized community. 

The Taipei campus houses three of the university's five colleges: Human Ecology, Design and Management. USC is especially well known for its College of Design, which you will see reflected in the modern architecture and many art installations on campus.

The University has a range of high quality academic facilities including libraries, lecture halls, science laboratories, studios, computer centers, and conference rooms. Sporting and athletic facilities include swimming pools, and unique open air gym. The University also has restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and bookstores, providing amenities to all University members.

You will live with roommates in a Hostel located near the college campus. The hostel amenities include: Air conditioning, Wi-Fi, Secure Lockers and Free Breakfast. Bathrooms, Laundry, Lounge and Kitchen facilities are shared with other residents. The hostel offers weekly social activities and dining excursions, which will give you the opportunity to meet and socialize with travelers from all over the world.

You will be responsible for all lunches and dinners. Food is very inexpensive in Taiwan and most residents find it cheaper to purchase take-out snacks and meals than to prepare meals at home. For your convenience, numerous restaurants and coffee shops, a supermarket, clinic, medical institution, postal office and even dry cleaning are reachable on foot.

Cultural Activities and Excursions: There will be pre-arranged fully inclusive tours during your stay, which will include trips to the National Palace Museum; Hindu, Buddhist, Confucian, and Daoist Temples; as well as an overnight stay at a Buddhist Monastery. Additionally, students will be able to participate in authentic religious practices including yoga, ritual practice, tai chi, and meditation.

Other field trips organized by USC are optional and may require an additional fee. You will also have 1 week at the beginning of the program in which you are free to travel and explore on your own. Some ideas to get you started include: Taroko National Park, Sun Moon Lake, and endless hiking trails, bicycle tours, hot springs and beautiful beaches 

GENERAL SCHOLARSHIPS

Gilman Scholarship: For Federal Pell Grant recipients. Up to $5,000 for a quarter-long program. [website]

Fund for Education Abroad (FEA): For minority or first-generation college students. Awards up to $10,000. [website]

WCCCSA Consortium for Study Abroad: For quarter long WCCCSA programs, WCCCSA awards two (2) $1,000 scholarships to selected program participants. [website] 

. . .and many others [website] 

REGION- SPECIFIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Freeman ASIA: For current financial aid recipients who plan to study abroad in Asia for at least 1 quarter (Valid for Japan and Taiwan programs). [website]