India: Himalayan Buddhist Art and Architecture (Summer)

Coursework

Prerequisites:
None required, but a background in history, Asian studies, religious studies, architecture, or art history is strongly recommended.

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This course surveys a broad spectrum of topics related to the Himalayan region in northern India, from Shimla to Ladakh. To study the art and architecture of the region, students also examine political, social, and religious issues of historical and modern import. The seminar includes traditional lectures and classroom time, as well as cultural experiences, expert presentations, self-directed investigations, and independent research.

The following syllabi are either from a recent session of this program or for an upcoming session. Because courses develop and change over time to take advantage of dynamic learning opportunities, actual course content will vary from term to term.

The syllabi can be useful for students, faculty, and study abroad offices in assessing credit transfer. Read more about credit transfer.

Himalayan Buddhist Art and Architecture Seminar - syllabus (PDF)
(ASIA 3000 / 8 credits / 120 class hours)
Focus on the history, arts, architecture, and culture of the Himalayas. Topics include traditional and contemporary issues in Himalayan art history, stresses of tourism and environmental degradation, conservation and restoration of threatened structures, ancient and modern history of the region, and social and political issues. A methods component helps students develop field study skills in observation and interviewing, gathering and organizing research materials, and maintaining a work journal. As many of the sites that students study have not been surveyed, the component also covers art historical conservation and restoration. The program concludes with an opportunity for a five-day independent study project, which focuses on some aspect of Himalayan Buddhist art and architecture.

Himalayan Buddhist Art and Architecture Seminar - graduate syllabus (PDF)
(ASIA 5000 / 8 credits / 120 class hours)

Credits: 8

Duration: 6 weeks

Program Base: Leh

Prerequisites: None required, but a background in history, Asian studies, religious studies, architecture, or art history is strongly recommended. Read more...