Bachelor of Arts in Himalayan Studies

Objectives of the Programme 

On completion of a three year BA in Bhutan and Himalayan Studies, graduates will be able to:

• Exhibit a broad understanding of key terms, debates and theories related to cultures, societies, languages, religions and histories of the Himalayan territories of Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Describe the evolutionary and historical processes that have shaped the biological, behavioural and cultural diversity of Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Compare the diverse cultural and traditional practices, and beliefs found within Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Analyse the impact of cultural change and geopolitical situations within Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, and Arunachal Pradesh
• Analyse the impact of major historical events in the world and the region on the socio-economic and political developments of the Himalayan region. 
• Analyse a range of historical and contemporary issues in Ladakh, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Describe the historical and political developments of Bhutan and the Himalayan region.
• Evaluate the importance of historical figures of Bhutan and their contributions to nation building.
• Gain an understanding of GNH as a development paradigm and make comparisons with other approaches.  
• Evaluate the application of GNH to development policies and plans of Bhutan as well as its impact outside Bhutan.
• Undertake critical and constructive analysis of texts, artifacts, spaces, events, debates, policies and ways of being in the context of Bhutanese and Himalayan studies.
• Display basic skills of curating and presenting visual and spatial research.
• Apply basic research skills to conduct small scale research projects.
• Critically analyze and synthesize information relevant to the area of study.
• Communicate effectively in both spoken and written forms in Dzongkha and English
• Appreciate the uniqueness of Bhutanese values, culture and tradition.
• Display a sense of respect for indigenous knowledge and practices in Bhutan and the wider Himalayan region.

• Analyze the historical relations among Bhutan, India and China
• Exhibit a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Himalayas
• Apply knowledge of GNH to understand socio-economic development of the Himalayas
• Analyze contemporary debates related to socio-political situations in the Himalayas
• Question assumptions and make a stand through reasoned arguments
• Conduct a substantial research project independently
• Critically reflect on their own learning process
• Appreciate the uniqueness of Bhutanese culture and tradition.

Curriculum Structure