Study Abroad
The Department of Plant Pathology & Microbiology is increasing its participation in international education programs by establishing strong connections that are leading to the development of excellent distance education programs. Many of our students were involved in study abroad experiences in countries such as Australia, Brazil, Belgium, China, Costa Rica, Dominica, Ireland, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan. The Department is currently developing a Faculty-Led Study Abroad Program to Kasetsart University in Bangkok, Thailand for Winter 2025 – Spring 2026.
Thailand – Challenges and Solutions to Environment and Society
Kasetsart University
Bangkok, Thailand
December 2026 (Travel) and Spring Semester 2027
Deadline for Application: September 1, 2026
https://tamuabroad.via-trm.com/program_brochure/26657
BESC 311 International Perspectives on Environmental Issues and Regulations (Spring 2026, 3 Cr Hr Registration) Faculty leaders: Drs. Brian Shaw and Jorge Arreola-Vargas
International environmental issues are becoming more important as the rapid industrialization of the developing world is producing pollution that affects the producing nation, neighbors, and in some cases, affect the global environment (e.g., greenhouse gases, plastic pollution, agrochemical pollution). The developing world will face many of the same issues that the US has experienced. It is critical for Texas A&M students to gain a global perspective in understanding how the global economy impacts world and US environmental issues. The consideration of international issues include the impact of overpopulation, loss of biodiversity, global common resources, environmental disasters and transboundary pollution. The course will also focus on sustainable agriculture and food production efforts. Through this faculty-led program, TAMU students will have the opportunity to interact with Kasetsart students and faculty to discuss challenging topics and share global perspectives related to the coursework. Students will not enroll in courses at Kasetsart University.
Tentative Program Schedule
- December 12/13: Depart US
- December 14: Arrive in Bangkok and check in at Kasetsart University
- December 15-17: Orientation, campus tour, class lectures, cultural activities (Thai cooking and kick boxing)
- December 18-20: Field trip to Sakaerat Environmental Research Station
- December 21-23: Class lectures, museum of contemporary arts, cultural activities (meditation, textile pattern dyeing)
- December 24: Bangkok city tour
- December 25: Class lectures and NGO visit
- December 26: Excursion to Chatuchak nature trail and the weekend market
- December 27: Excursion to elephant sanctuary
- December 28: Checkout and Depart for US.
Estimated Program Cost for TAMU Registered Students
- TAMU Education Abroad Fee: $500
- Program fee: $3,450, includes local transportation, room, cultural activity fees, international travel insurance, and miscellaneous program expenses
- Personal meal cost is not included in the program fee
- Total cost: $3,950
- Cost not covered by program cost
- Airfare US to/from BKK: ~$2,500
- Passport and entry fees (if needed): ~$280
- Meals not included in the program: ~$150
- Transportation not in the program: ~$100
- Trip interruption insurance: varies
- Personal spending: varies
*Study Abroad Scholarships and other aid may be available to qualified students.
*The program fee is an estimate that is subject to change based on the final number of participants and the cost of finalized arrangements.
Contact Us
Plant Pathology and Microbiology
PLPM Building Rm 324
Mr. Sam Murdock ([email protected])
Dr. Brian Shaw ([email protected])
Jillan Robins, Education Abroad Advisor I ([email protected])