Unlike most of South-East Asia, Thailand has not experienced a colonial era and retains a traditional monarchy in which the King is a highly respected figure. Thailand is a devoutly Buddhist society, but is also affected by Islamic and Sinitic, and more recently, American influences. With a population of some 60 million people, it is a country with a rich cultural heritage and an openness to travellers.

Students spend two consecutive semesters studying language and culture at Khon Kaen University through arrangements made by the Institute. In the first semester, the focus is on the study of language and culture and students undertake an intensive Thai language program. In the second semester, students continue their language studies and attend specific courses relating to Thai society. Students are assessed on each semester separately and assessment is based on the subjects undertaken at the host institution, as well as project work administered by the Institute for International Studies.

Students may expect that no greater costs are incurred through undertaking a period of In-country Study in Thailand than are involved in living away from home in Sydney.

Location

Khon Kaen

Khon Kaen is located in north-east Thailand in a region that is inhabited by Isaan peoples. It is an important commercial, financial, educational and communications regional centre of Thailand. Buddhism is the major religion and there are a number of beautiful temples (wat) in the area. Silk weaving is undertaken on a large scale about 60 km to the south. A well-made road and transport system links Khon Kaen to Laos in the north and Bangkok to the south-west.

Khon Kaen University is the largest university in north-east Thailand. The campus occupies 810 hectares, with its wide spread of faculty buildings, hospital, township and accommodation options.

Completion requirements

971320 Thai 1		8cp
972320 Thai 2		8cp
973320 Thai 3		8cp
974320 Thai 4		8cp
Select one of the following:		8cp
50140 Comparative Social Change	8cp
76600 International Legal Studies	8cp
976301 Contemporary Southeast Asia		8cp
977320 In-country Study 1: Thailand		24cp
978320 In-country Study 2: Thailand		24cp
Total		96cp