India: National Identity and the Arts in New Delhi

Type of Program: Semester Program
City: New Dehli, India
When Offered: Fall or Spring
Cost: See Program Costs page

India presents an unparalleled diversity of religions, languages, and cultures. Its art, architecture, music, theater, and dance offer a dramatic reflection of the nation's intricate cultural mosaic. This program studies the visual and performing arts of India-its architecture, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, film, dance, music, and drama-in historic and contemporary contexts. Students are challenged to consider the relationship between religion, art, and identity and emerge with an appreciation of India as a center of Asian civilization, rather than a stereotypical nation beset by problems of the developing world. Taking advantage of New Delhi's rich artistic heritage and lively contemporary arts scene, the program includes time at historical and cultural sites, museums and art galleries, concerts and recitals, as well as dance and drama performances.

While in New Delhi, students can engage with local artists and experts through involvement with a specific Indian craft or organization. In the past, students have completed practica focused on topics such as singing, Indian dance, heritage walks, cooking, and yoga. In addition, for a short period the group divides into smaller, independent units for intensive workshops. Examples include folk music, painting, or art historical site workshops. The location of the workshops changes depending on the semester, though workshops are typically conducted in either South India (Mahabalipuram, Thanjavur, and Madurai) or West India (Goa). In the final month of the program, students complete an Independent Study Project (ISP) that provides each student an opportunity to pursue original research on a selected topic of particular interest to them. Students choose research topics with consultation and support from the academic director and other in-country experts, following which they conduct their ISP in Delhi, northern India, or another approved location appropriate to the project. Students from the beginner to intermediate level receive daily Hindi language classes in small groups. Students are encouraged to continue working on their language skills in daily life and with homestay families. Students with advanced Hindi may opt for tutoring.    

Students will study abroad in India through the SIT study abroad program.  SIT provides 24/7 onsite student support and services. 

2013 Academic Dates

Spring 2013:  January 21, 2013 - May 5, 2013
Fall 2013: This semester program runs from Late August through mid December. 

Eligibility and Prerequisites

Students must have declared a major and taken prerequisite courses.  Students must have completed three semesters in college-level residence.  Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher to apply.

Application and Study Abroad Deposit Deadlines

Please note that both the application and fee are due in the Office of International Studies. All students must attend an advising session at least one week prior to the deadline in the Office of International Studies to obtain an application.