RELIGION IN INDIA
THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI
STUDY ABROAD COURSE
TAUGHT BY DR. DAN CAPPER
NEXT OFFERED MAY 10-JUNE 1, 2010

4 HOURS IN RELIGION
UNDERGRAD OR GRAD

STUDY THE RELIGIONS OF HINDUISM, BUDDHISM, ISLAM, CHRISTIANITY, SIKHISM, JAINISM, AND ZOROASTRIANISM AS LIVED IN THE WORLD'S LARGEST DEMOCRACY

For millennia the religions of India, being both diverse and creative, have contributed to a rich cultural tapestry. India has given birth to a number of religions, such as Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, and because of this, India is called a cradle of world religions. In addition, India houses many people who follow other religions such as Islam, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. India therefore has an incredibly multifaceted religious environment and is a living laboratory for comparative religion.

This three week course explores some of this richness through many visits to local, national, and World Heritage sites sacred to Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, and Christians. In a single day we might visit a Hindu temple, a Muslim mosque, a Christian church, and a Buddhist holy site, and we will do such things every day for three weeks!

Throughout this trip we will be treated to the fabulous foods of India, home of one of the world's greatest cuisines. From rice dishes, to many varieties of curries, to scorching-hot rogan josh, to snacks on samosas, or a cooling lassi yogurt drink, one of the attractions of this trip is feasting on absolutely delicious food in its home environment.

Undergraduate and graduate students are welcome. To study abroad through USM, undergraduates in all programs must have a 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) minimum overall GPA on at least 28 semester hours at the time of participation and a clear academic status. Graduate students must have graduate standing.

The course will be taught entirely in English so that no language skills are required. Course resources include readings, class lecture, and field trips. Assignments include an exam, an ethnographic project, and respectful behavior. Students should return with a broader and deeper understanding of the powerful roles that religion can play in the unique, ancient, and very religious culture of India. This Religion 499/599 class carries 4 semester hours of credit. These hours typically transfer to universities other than USM.

2010 Tentative Itinerary
May 10-11 fly to Delhi
May 12-15 Delhi
May 15-17 Agra
May 17-22 Hardwar
May 22-26 Leh
May 26-31 Dharamsala
June 1 fly to the USA

2010 application form

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