
Location
Taipei City, Taiwan
Program Description
This dynamic study abroad program offers students an immersive introduction to global cultural studies through the lens of global citizenship, with a focus on contemporary life in Taiwan. Students will explore contemporary social, political, cultural, and economic conditions in Taiwan through a combination of readings, guest lectures, and virtual learning experiences. This study abroad program follows a hybrid format that combines virtual learning with in-person experiences. Before traveling, students will complete asynchronous coursework to gain foundational knowledge about Taiwan, develop cross-cultural communication skills, and prepare for the in-country experience. While in Taiwan, students will participate in academic and cultural programming, including visits to cultural sites, traditional cooking activities, night market experiences, and hands-on engagement with art, design, and maker culture.
Students will engage critically with Taiwan’s diverse society, explore key cultural practices, and deepen their understanding of cross-cultural communication. Whether comparing societal values, examining educational practices, or engaging with Indigenous and traditional cultures, students will leave the program with a broadened global perspective and a stronger sense of their role as global citizens.
This program provides additional study abroad opportunities in Asia. By combining virtual learning with in-country experiences, this will lower the overall costs of the program.
This program is open to all majors and minors. The credits can also be applied toward the Asian Studies minor
Location Description
This program is based in Taipei, Taiwan, and the group will travel to various locations across the island for activities, site visits, and excursions
Director
Felix Wang | wangch@jmu.edu | Honors College
Diana Meza | mezadx@jmu.edu | Education Foundations and Exceptionalities
Accommodations
No foreign language is required to participate in this program. All instructions will be in English. For U.S. citizens, a visa is not required for this program.
Additional Items to Consider
Students are expected to engage in pre-departure virtual learning or readings and assignments provided by the faculty.
Applicant Criteria
Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.0.
Open to all class levels and majors, including graduate students.
Open to non-JMU students.
Application Process
This list serves as an application preview. To apply, students will need to complete the following:
- Study Abroad Online Application ($40 fee)
- Short Essay
Further details and instructions about these application requirements will be available upon log-in.
Application Deadline
Dates
All dates are tentative and subject to change
Courses
HON 300: Advanced Special Topics in Honors: Identity and Culture in Taiwan
EDUC 310: Teaching in a Diverse Society
CHIN 447: Special Topics in Chinese Culture: Chinese Festivals, Food, and Folk Arts
Courses listed here are to be used as a general guideline for program curriculum. *All courses are considered pending until approved by the Academic Department, Program, and/or College.