Mongolia’s expansive beauty unfolds between Russia and China, boasting a functional democracy in its midst. With just 2.5 people per square mile, it stands as Earth’s most sparsely inhabited nation, with over half residing in or around the capital, Ulaanbaatar. Beyond lies “the countryside,” where a third of Mongolians shepherd livestock for a living. The Darhad Valley, nestled within this vast expanse, offers a rich tapestry of habitats, from lush mountain forests and pristine river valleys to high-elevation taiga, providing a haven for diverse flora and fauna.
It is within the Darhad Valley complex that Round River’s conservation efforts take root. Join us in supporting the Ulaan Taiga Protected Areas Administration and buffer zone communities to establish a center for ecological monitoring and research, contributing to the conservation and preservation of this remote Mongolian region.
Here, you’ll gain hands-on experience with habitat monitoring techniques, from camera trap surveys to cormorant diet studies, working closely with the locally revered pika and endangered Vansemberuu plant.
Beyond conservation, immerse yourself in Mongolian culture through interactions with local rangers and communities, study in traditional Mongolian gers, and savor local delicacies like yak milk yogurt and meat.
In their field work and academics, Round River stands out for their respect and conscientiousness for how to ethically do science as outsiders. They focus on how to help indigenous communities manage their land and constantly self-examine the sociopolitical implications of their presence. In turn, the science we do is hugely important and meaningful to the locals. My research felt so meaningful and appreciated, and I could see a clear cause my work would contribute to.
Summer Term
6 Weeks – Mid June To Early August
Summer 2026: June 19 – August 3
Fall Semester
12 weeks – mid August to early November
Fall 2026: August 20 – November 12
Financial Support
Our primary base camp offers views into the heart of the Horidol Saridag mountain range, and consists of 2 gers for meals, academics, and group activities, and ample space to set up for tent sleeping. Enjoy the convenience of amenities such as latrines, gas cooking stoves, electricity, and safe storage space for your belongings. The small town of Ulaan-Uul is about 5 miles away from base camp, and you have the opportunity to go into town at least once a week to shower, do laundry, use the wifi, and do some groceries. In your down time, swim in the nearby river, go for runs, and enjoy birdwatching.
Our academics complement the field research and are designed to be interactive and hands-on. You can expect to dedicate a few hours each day to working on your field journals, engaging in group discussions on relevant articles, participating in lectures and class activities, and deepening your understanding of natural history. Guest lectures, when possible, will further enrich your knowledge of conservation and land-use planning in the area. Each program culminates with the completion of a final written research paper, focusing on one aspect of the project, accompanied by a presentation.
Unlike a traditional college setting where lab work typically supplements classroom lectures, our students learn primarily in the field with supporting academics designed to enrich the hands-on experience. This type of applied learning is both challenging and rewarding, as you are pushed to learn in ways that differ significantly from a standard classroom environment.
All lectures and field activities will be conducted in English, though not widely spoken in Darhad. Locals may understand some English but might be hesitant to speak. Some may seek conversational practice, and staff in protected areas may appreciate informal English lessons. Mongolian’s grammar, related to Turkish, Japanese, and Finnish, may be confusing for English speakers, but we encourage learning basic greetings and the Cyrillic alphabet for reading signs. You can start learning beginner Mongolian via the Ling App.
Before each program, you will need to complete several paperwork packets and attend orientation sessions. For detailed information on these requirements, as well as important details such as vaccine recommendations, please refer to our pre-departure page.
You are responsible for your personal gear while on the program. Here is a short list of necessary, big-ticket items required for a semester in Mongolia. A comprehensive packing list tailored to your specific program will be provided post-enrollment. Group gear and equipment is provided on the program.
If you’re traveling with a United States passport, you don’t need to apply for a visa before departure.
Student projects have always been a key part of the Round River Mongolia program, evolving over time to match partner needs. Each student group contributes to the advancement of our conservation efforts, whether by continuing long-term projects or piloting new initiatives.
Get an in-depth view of our Mongolia Student Program from current student and alumni experiences.
