Language Requirement: None
Academic Standing by Program Start: Sophomore or above
Location: Asia, Nepal
GPA: 2.75

Program Overview

Tucked between China and India, Nepal is dominated by the Himalaya, known for many of Earth’s highest peaks and deepest gorges. Learn to “read” rocks and dive deep into geology to understand past and present Earth processes. Your geological trek will take you from the rain-soaked region south of the mountains, between two peaks higher than 8,000 meters, and to the arid edge of the Tibetan Plateau to the north. The active tectonics of Asia mean a high earthquake risk for many Himalayan communities. The steep mountain slopes and intense rainfall make landslides another hazard. These, combined with weak architectural choices, have led to major structural damage in Nepal. Learn about hazard assessment, risk reduction, and engineering geology, as well as climate change and hydropower. Engage with Nepali faculty and geology students from Nepal’s Tribhuvan University, who will also participate in the field portion of the program, subject to academic schedules. Students often become close with their fellow geology students from Nepal during the experience. 

For further information about the program, including dates and course information, please visit: SIT: Summer Geoscience in the Himalaya

Dates and Deadlines

TermYearDeadlineArrival DateDeparture Date
Summer20253/1/20256/1/20257/20/2025

If you are interested in applying to a SIT program, we strongly advise you to meet with an advisor prior to applying.

Selection for the program is based on a review of your written application, recommendation, transcript(s), and completion of the interview process. Qualified applicants are recommended by a GEO Study Abroad Program Advisor. The final selection of participants is made by SIT.

IMPORTANT: Application for a SIT program involves two parts:

  1. Completion of the GEO application process.
  2. Completion of the SIT application process.

Please note that the GEO deadline supersedes the SIT deadline.

Discount for Pell Recipients

To expand access to study abroad, GEO is offering a $500 discount for this program to UO students who currently have the Pell Grant as part of their federal financial aid (FAFSA).

Course Equivalencies

UO students: please refer to the UO Course Equivalency Process and the UO Office of the Registrar Course Equivalency Database.

Non-UO students: Actual credit awarded is determined by the relevant department at your university in consultation with the study abroad office. Check with your study abroad advisor for more information.

Additional Requirements

At least two upper division (above the 100-level) geoscience, earth science-oriented environmental science, or physical geography courses.