Study Abroad Mumbai

Gender and Development Studies in India

Study Abroad Mumbai The Wells College Gender and Development Studies Program in India focuses on the intersection of culture and gender in this developing country. By taking courses from Indian scholars at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, as well as participating in community volunteer projects, students will come to appreciate the differing impacts development can have on women's and men's lives.

Located in Mumbai (Bombay), this spring semester program will provide a solid foundation in the history and culture of India, followed by courses in Indian social and economic development, Gandhian Philosophy, and social and economic justice. Classes will be on the campus of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in suburban Mumbai. A visit to the rural campus of TISS and a yoga week during spring break, as well as excursions in Mumbai, will enable participants to connect campus life to modern day India.

The Program is particularly well suited to students interested in careers in international studies, globalization, gender issues advocacy, international development, and anything related to the study of South Asia. Focused coursework combined with working in the community and living in India will help students gain practical knowledge while enhancing their ability to live in a developing country.
Back to top

Host Institution

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences, a deemed university offering mostly graduate degrees in social work, health administration, women's studies, and other areas in the social sciences, will be the academic and physical host for this program. Established more than 70 years ago, TISS is recognized for its close connections with the communities in which it works. In the past five years alone, TISS has undertaken over 600 research and social development projects that involve applying academic knowledge to the challenges facing India. The focus on social justice issues and community involvement unique to TISS is an ideal match for the Gender Studies and Development Program.

The TISS campus, situated roughly 10 miles outside the center of Mumbai can best be described as an oasis in the midst of the frenetic activity which characterizes Mumbai. Lush greenery and quiet courtyards allow one to forget about the noise and constant motion that is modern Mumbai. With academic, recreation and dining facilities, provided on-campus, program participants will find TISS to be an ideal home for their time in India. Students enrolled at this Institute come from different states of India as well as the Southeast Asian region. This profile provides for a rich opportunity for academic interaction and cultural exchange.
Back to top




John Wells - Director Off-Campus Study
Wells College 160 Main Street, Aurora NY 13026
Office: 315-364-3487 | Secretary: 315-364-3288 | Fax: 315-364-3257
email: mumbai@wells.edu