Semester in Thailand -
Mahidol University

Quarter Friendly

Most Affordable

Green Campus

LGBTQIA+ Friendly

Study at a top university in the "Land of Smiles"

Make friends from around the world, explore beaches, and visit local Thai villages and iconic sites throughout the country for a life-changing semester! You'll live and learn in Salaya, with easy access to the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. You'll be hosted by Mahidol University International College, a campus that caters to both international and local students. Hundreds of courses are on offer every semester, ensuring that you won't miss a beat academically.

What to Expect

Language(s):

English

Average Courseload:

3-5 classes (9-15 U.S. credits)

GPA Requirement:

2.50

Visa Requirement:

YES - Pre-departure

Highlights:

Wide range of course offerings available

Classes taught in English at an international campus

Opportunities to interact with elephants and explore ancient ruins

Take classes with Thai and international students

Volunteer in the community by replanting mangroves lost to deforestation

I was able to meet my family in Thailand for the first time this past weekend and it was surreal. Seeing where my dad grew up and reuniting with my grandmother was such a wholesome experience I’m going to cherish for the rest of my life.

Holden Carrell

My favorite part about studying abroad in Thailand was getting to travel to the surrounding countries with such ease! I got to experience everything that makes up the history, culture, and people who live in the region, and that helped me feel at home.

Makayla Caisse

Studying abroad in Thailand has challenged my most basic assumptions about tourism, society, and identity. It has been the best four months of my life.

Ben Beaty

Throughout my time in Thailand, after experiencing so many unfamiliar things, different cultures, and ways of life, I learned to just live in the moment and appreciate everything around me. Enjoying every moment instead of worrying about the past and future helped me tremendously in terms of self-confidence and independence.

Adam Poole

Being a part of CIS while at Bangkok has been really beneficial because that have a built-in people and itineraries but not too much. So, for one fourth of your weekends CIS has something; you can choose to be a part of it but it's optional. One of the best things about being apart of CIS is meeting new people, seeing places and trying new things.

Kevin Ann Rungsinee

Program Details

Semester in Thailand - Mahidol University

Mahidol University

Founded in 1888, Mahidol University has regal origins: former king Chulalongkorn founded Mahidol University in 1888 as the country's first medical school. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most prestigious universities in Thailand. Mahidol ranks as the #1 university in all of Thailand and as one of the top 50 universities in Asia. You'll get a top quality education in Bangkok, one of the world's most fascinating cities!

Mahidol is recognized for the caliber of its students' research, the quality of its faculty, and its outstanding achievements in both teaching and international academic collaboration. You won't be the only study abroad student at Mahidol; in fact, you'll be studying at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), which hosts international students from 50 countries around the world and enjoys AACSB accreditation. There are 16,500 students in total at Mahidol.

You can study a wide range of courses in business, health science, science and technology, and social science and humanities. Your courses will be taught in English at MUIC. Studying in Bangkok will give you an authentic and insightful perspective into the culture, history, and politics of Thailand and Southeast Asia. You'll also experience a uniquely Thai combination of frenetic city energy and tranquil Buddhist spirituality. Come fall in love with the rich landscape of Thailand and the cultural beauty of the Thai people. This environment, coupled with the stellar academics at Mahidol, is the perfect equation for an unforgettable experience!

Accreditation: Ministry of Education in Thailand. Mahidol University International College (MUIC) is AACSB accredited.

Areas of study with 8 or more classes available

Art & Design
Business
Communications
Education
Engineering
Health
Humanities
Natural & Applied Sciences
Social Sciences
World Languages

Course descriptions and catalog: CIS Abroad students are able to choose from any course at our partner school, Mahidol University International College (MUIC), as long as they meet the prerequisites.

Course Catalog

Explore a wide range of courses taught in English through MUIC. The first part of this document lists courses according to academic program. As a short-term, visiting student, you are not restricted to courses within just one program or according to the sequence provided in this document. You'll also find all courses and their descriptions in the second part of the document, starting on page 158.

Course Catalog 2023-2024 & 2024-2025

If you need a full syllabus, please reach out to your Program Enrollment Coordinator for assistance. You may see that the course schedule only has the term prior to the term that you are applying for. The final course schedule is available 4-6 weeks before the term begins. Your Program Enrollment Coordinator will share with you as soon as it has been released and we'll walk you through the pre-registration process 4-6 weeks prior to departure. You can register for up to 6 courses initially to secure yourself a spot and will have the chance to drop/add during your first two weeks of the program.

You can use the courses from previous terms as a good indication of what to expect for your semester, as they don't typically vary too much.

When reviewing the course list, we recommend you choose at least double the amount of courses for approval than you intend to take abroad in case the courses are not offered or if there is a time conflict. For instance, if you are planning on enrolling in four courses at MUIC, we recommend getting at least eight courses pre-approved.

Note: Mahidol University uses a Trimester system where Trimester 1 begins in September, Trimester 2 in January, and Trimester 3 in April.

**Please note that certain courses are not available to visiting students, such as Nursing Science Program courses, research project classes, or internships. See the full list of courses that are NOT available here. (Note: This is from a previous term so it may not be a perfect indication of which courses are not available.)

Any US university standards surrounding credits should be taken into consideration when selecting your number of courses. Not all courses will be worth 4 Thai credits (3 US credits), so if your university in the US has a credit minimum, you will need to meet that.

Life in Bangkok

How to sum up the thrilling city of Bangkok? Home to serene spiritual temples and pulsing nightlife, Bangkok is in a class of its own! Nearly 10 million people live in Thailand’s capital, which is a dynamic city synonymous with the exotic. Bangkok is also a dominant force in Asian finance and business. Moreover, it has global influences on politics, culture, fashion, and entertainment.

There's a shroud of mystery over Bangkok that lures nearly 30 million visitors each year making it the world's most popular destinations. Hop in a tuk-tuk (a three-wheeled motorized cart) and zip in and out of traffic as you visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the thousands of temples around the city. Discover and embrace the amazing international cuisine, bustling street markets, and extraordinary energy around you. Your study abroad program is located in the city of Salaya, with easy access by bus, private van, skytrain, or taxi into the heart of Bangkok.

Thanks to Bangkok's proximity to the equator, you'll enjoy warm weather year round. Take a break from the city to visit the many jungles, beaches, artisan villages, and cultural/historical sites in Thailand. Indulge yourself with a Thai massage, ride an elephant, take a cooking class, or learn the martial art of Thai boxing. Whether you're exploring the cuisine, the tropical beaches on the coast, or the animated markets, Thailand will be an unforgettable study abroad experience!

Live the Local Life

Chinatown

Yaowarat, one of the biggest Chinatowns in the world, experience amazing street food, narrow alleys packed with shops of all kinds, great snack and a unique cultural experience. Don't forget to check on the 12 ton golden buddha at Wat Traimit, it was lost for almost 200 years.

Siam BTS

Some of the biggest malls in Asia, see penguins, lamborghinis, watch an IMAX or go ice skating all in one of the busiest and most up-market parts of Bangkok.

Asiatique

Take a boat down the river and enjoy Thai and other seafood along the waterfront in a beautiful setting.

Chatujak Weekend Market

One of the biggest markets in Bangkok, more than you can see in a single day, a great place to find unique and beautiful Thai goods, presents, clothes and other souvenirs

Kanchanaburi

Take a day trip to this small town to see the famous death railway from world war 2, and camp at the beautiful Erawan park,close to a seven level water fall.

Street Food

Don't forget to try some of the many kinds of amazing street food, this is one of the must do experiences for you stay in Thailand, sample the noodles, pat thai, curries, fresh fruit, homemade ice cream and so much more.

Off-Campus Residence Hall

Location

If you’re looking for a combination of creature comforts and an active atmosphere, the off-campus residence hall, Bundit, is for you! The newly constructed residence is a large, modern facility comprised of several high-rise buildings. Bundit apartments come with many amenities, including an outdoor pool with a large spirit house, gym, restaurant, and convenience store.

There are double and single rooms that are spacious, boast very modern furnishings including a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a desk, and a refrigerator. Bundit has both self-service laundry as well as a laundry service, where you can drop your laundry and pick it up, finished and folded.

A shuttle service to campus is offered daily. Bundit is about a five-minute taxi or shuttle ride from campus, or a 20-25 minute walk.

Meals

Although there are no kitchens in the housing, there are many inexpensive eateries nearby with delicious local food.

Inclusions and Amenities

24-Hour Security Air Conditioning Bathroom - Ensuite Commute - Shuttle Commute - Walking Desk Fitness Center Laundry - Onsite Laundry - Service Available Pool Television Wi-Fi

What's Included

Inclusions

Program fees are in U.S. dollars and include the following:

Full-time tuition and fees
Excursions
Housing
Medical and accident insurance
CIS Abroad support services before, during, and after the program
Academic advising
Financial aid counseling
Assistance with travel arrangements
Pre-departure orientation
Airport pickup
Mahidol University transcript
CIS Abroad orientation
On-site support
On-campus wi-fi
The Local Life cultural program

Welcome & Orientation

Upon arrival, take part in both Mahidol University and CIS Abroad orientation programs. Learn the "do's and don'ts" of living in Thailand: where to go out, how to stay safe, where to shop, and more. In the afternoon, you'll participate in the Thai Cultural values training, where staff will cover the differences in working and communication styles between Thailand and the West.

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

At the end of the program, we'll gather together for a final tasty Thai meal and talk about your adventures and experiences. Our staff will also share some precious tips on going back home feeling like a champ! Your study abroad experience is something to be cherished and shared with your family and friends back home.

Program Excursions

While participating on a CIS Abroad program, you'll be able to take part in built-in day trips at no additional cost. These trips are subject to change from term to term; listed below are excursions that have run in the past.

Ko Chang

Visit the beautiful island of Ko Chang and stay with a local Thai family in a traditional house built over the water. You'll snorkel in a national park and learn to fish for squid in the evening. A second day gives you time to sunbathe, swim, or kayak.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is one of Thailand's must-visit locations in the picturesque north. You can swim with elephants at an animal sanctuary, take a Thai cooking class and shop for ingredients at the market, and walk around this 700-year-old city.

Bangkok City Tour

Visit the beautiful Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most holy temple where you will be dazzled by gold and jade. Ride a riverboat down Thailand's “River of Life,” the Chao Praya, and glimpse the lifestyles of people who live in this so-called “Venice of the East.” Finally, visit Wat Pho, “Temple of The Reclining Buddha,” a 50-meter long, 200-year-old buddha.

Cambodia and Angkor Wat - Semester

Spend two nights and two days in Cambodia, included in the program! You'll explore Siem Reap, undertake a breathtaking sunrise visit to Angkor Wat and ruined temple at Ta Phrom, and cruise around on bicycles for a half-day tour of the surrounding countryside. Inclusions: Flights to and from Cambodia, shared 3 star accommodation, private transport, Bangkok airport pickup and drop off, Angkor Wat ticket and guide, half day bike tour, 3 meals a day, and expert on site staff guidance from start to finish. This excursion is scheduled for early in the program to jump start your experience!

Site Director

David Jackson

Site Director in Thailand

About:

David was born in the UK and moved to the US when he was 16 and completed high school and University in Colorado. As an avid traveler, his first thought on graduation was to travel to Asia. He volunteered and lived with a family in Kathmandu for 2 months before traveling to Thailand. He quickly fell in love with the country and for the last 12 years has worked as a teacher, as a development officer in NGOs, and has worked with volunteers and study abroad programs for the last seven years. He has an MA in Asia Pacific Studies and is fluent in Thai. He loves his work because it allows him to share his love of Thailand and its people with participants and at the same time support the great things that people all over Thailand are doing every day.

Travel Tip:

Looking for a cool and exciting way to explore Bangkok? The whole city used to be based around canals, so jumping on a boat gives you a way to get out of the traffic and experience the real Bangkok.

Ann Rungsinee

Site Director - Bangkok

About:

With a background in social science and a master's degree in international development from the U.K., I have more than 10 years' experience in international program implementation and support in Bangkok and other countries. I love organizing events and meeting new people. I'm also passionate about traveling and believe that going to exotic places, learning about foreign cultures and new things in life make you grow as a person. My top three travel experiences are backpacking throughout Shangri-La, seeing the Aurora Borealis in Iceland, and driving through Jordan. If I'm not working or traveling, I enjoy spending my time at home and taking care of my cactus and roses.

Travel Tip:

I always talk to the hotel staff and ask where to go and eat. But I don't ask for their recommendation for me as a tourist, I ask where is their favorite place to eat. Once in Bali, our shuttle driver took us to his favorite diner and we got to eat the local food with our hands. It turned out to be one of the best meals we had in Bali.

Methat Chulapa

Assistant Site Director - Bangkok, Thailand

About:

I’m an educator with roots in biology and a zeal for international education. My academic adventures took me from tutoring underprivileged students in Bangkok's vicinity to an internship in Halle (Saale), Germany, and a life science policy degree from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. With over a decade of teaching experience and a career in the private sector enriched by global colleagues, I accumulated a wealth of life experience and insight which help guide students through the UK and US biology curricula. My work is fueled by the transformative power of education and the personal growth I witness in my students, which also shapes my identity beyond my professional life.

Travel Tip:

Before setting off, it’s wise to acquaint yourself with the destination’s culture and heritage. While spontaneity adds zest, awareness prevents mishaps. Stay open to novel experiences; often, unexpected moments yield the most delight. Travel is invaluable for personal growth and learning—savour every moment.

Your Support Staff

Amanda Murphy

Program Enrollment Coordinator - Australia, Costa Rica, Greece, and Thailand

Travel Tip:

Don't overplan. Have a place to stay, pick a few major things you want to do, and then just get lost in the beauty of it all. If you plan too many activities, you miss out on stumbling into the most wonderful things that you'll never forget.

Alexandra Woolner

Director of International Operations

Travel Tip:

Expect the unexpected! Sometimes culture shock is stronger in countries where you expect things to be more similar to your home country and environment. Traveling abroad is an excellent way to learn more about your own culture, habits, style, and adaptability.

Kaylee Klinger

Communications & Alumni Relations Coordinator

Travel Tip:

The best travel tip I always share is, if possible try to catch a redeye flight. That has helped me tremendously fight jet-lag and it allows you more time to explore the extraordinary unfamiliar place!

Serenah Quiroga

Advising & Communications Coordinator

Travel Tip:

Always find a reason to talk to a local or someone you may not know. Whether it's a simple hello, compliment, or question, there is always something to learn from every person you meet. Some of my best experiences and favorite memories were formed because of these interactions.

Alumni Ambassadors

Dates & Prices

Additional Information:

Price Range

Lower price: double room
Higher price: single room

Please note: As with all study abroad programs, you should count on a few additional expenses.

CIS Abroad reserves the right to alter fees at any time due to currency fluctuations and/or fee changes made by our partner universities.

ADVISOR TIP:

Please WAIT to book flights until you have received confirmed dates in your acceptance paperwork. Dates posted here are subject to change.

I knew I wanted to study abroad, particularly in Japan, because it was on my bucket list. Thanks to CIS, I was able to go to Tokyo! Even now, it is surreal to me that I got to go! I can't put it into words how much fun I had in Tokyo. I enjoyed every second of my time there, from walking around the bustling streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku, to going to class, eating delicious Japanese cuisine, and even going to the convenience store. Even the simplest things were incredibly fun to me. I was initially anxious about being homesick, my Japanese skills and traveling alone, but I'm happy to say that I very quickly made lovely, lifelong friends and was met with nothing but kindness from the locals. I learned not to let my worries get in the way of an opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you, CIS Abroad. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity I had to go to Tokyo.

Semester in Thailand - Mahidol University

Study at a top university in the "Land of Smiles"

What to Expect

Highlights:

Learn More About This and Other Programs

Holden Carrell

Makayla Caisse

Ben Beaty

Adam Poole

Kevin Ann Rungsinee

Program Details

Mahidol University

Areas of study with 8 or more classes available

Choose your courses

Course Catalog

Life in Bangkok

Live the Local Life

Chinatown

Siam BTS

Asiatique

Chatujak Weekend Market

Kanchanaburi

Street Food

Off-Campus Residence Hall

Location

Meals

Inclusions and Amenities

What's Included

Inclusions

Welcome & Orientation

Farewell & Re-Entry Program

Program Excursions

Ko Chang

Chiang Mai

Bangkok City Tour

Cambodia and Angkor Wat - Semester

Site Director

David Jackson

About:

Travel Tip:

Ann Rungsinee

About:

Travel Tip:

Methat Chulapa

About:

Travel Tip:

Your Support Staff

Amanda Murphy

Travel Tip:

Alexandra Woolner

Travel Tip:

Kaylee Klinger

Travel Tip:

Serenah Quiroga

Travel Tip:

Alumni Ambassadors

Dates & Prices

ADVISOR TIP:

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Semester in Thailand -
Mahidol University