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Study Abroad in East Asia

Darhad Valley, Mongolia

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 the 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.

Program Details

Summer Term

6 Weeks – mid June to late July

Fall Semester

12 weeks – mid August to early November

Semester (15 Semester Credits)

  • Introduction to Natural History
  • Biological Field Methods
  • Applied Conservation Biology
  • Humans and the Environment
  • Applied Ecology

Summer Term (9 Semester Credits)

  • Introduction to Natural History
  • Biological Field Methods
  • Applied Conservation Biology

Our study abroad program costs include:

  • Tuition for 15 credits (9 for Summer)
  • Lodging
  • Field expenses
  • In-country travel and transportation
  • Group equipment
  • Meals
  • Cultural activities
  • Medical evacuation services
  • Travel agent support
  • Pre Departure and onsite orientation

Financial Support

We believe every student should have the opportunity to join our team, regardless of financial barriers. That’s why we accept federal financial aid and external scholarships, and have need-based scholarships available upon application to make our programs accessible to everyone.
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.
Field camps will vary based on research locations, and amenities can range from front-country camping with latrines, to primitive back-country camping where you backpack in everything you may need. While most accommodations are in tents, bunkhouses are available at select field locations.
You will participate in field work in the three protected areas around the Darhad Valley: Ulaan Taiga Strictly Protected Area, Horidol Saridag Strictly Protected Area, and Tengis-Shishged National Park. You may also conduct some field work in the Darhad Valley communities. These regions are characterized by a diverse range of ecosystems, including mountain forests, alpine meadows, stepped, and freshwater lakes.This variety of habitats supports a rich array of plant and animal species. Our work here promises both scientific discovery and a deep appreciation for the delicate balance of nature in this remote corner of Mongolia.
Our work requires spending long days in the field, involving hiking or backpacking through challenging terrain with fluctuating elevation changes, often in potentially windy, wet, and cold conditions. We recommend you adequately prepare both physically and mentally for these demanding conditions.
Due to the geographic location of our program, fresh fruits and vegetables can be difficult to obtain and Mongolia is a culture with a heavy meat and dairy diet. Please inform Round River staff of any dietary restrictions when applying for this program.
The Darhad Valley experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with temperatures ranging from mild to hot, typically between 59°F to 86°F, accompanied by occasional rainfall. Winters are cold, characterized by freezing temperatures often dropping below -4°F, and heavy snowfall blankets the landscape. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures, ranging from 32°F to 59°F, but can still see fluctuations in weather. The valley’s high elevation contributes to its cooler climate, making it prone to temperature changes and occasional windy conditions.
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.
The program starts and ends in the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. You’ll have the opportunity to visit museums and cultural attractions, and will find grocery stores, post offices, banks, and small internet cafes to finish any last minute needs that arise after arrival. From here, you will travel in an overnight train and travel for two days to reach our base camp.
Mongolia map highlighting Round River Conservation Studies camp areas, study areas and points of interest.

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.

You are expected to partake in camp chores and projects, gaining experience in communal living and project management. The group will help with tasks such as cooking, maintaining clean and organized communal spaces, logistic planning, risk assessment for projects, and data entry.
Schedules will vary depending on the needs of projects, academics, and group well-being, as well as the specific program location, with days off interspersed for relaxation or exploration. At base camp, each day may include a mix of academics, project planning, downtime, and chores. In the field, days may be filled with hiking, backpacking, and work, with interspersed academic sessions, relaxation time, and general camp upkeep. Evenings are typically spent at camp. Due to the dynamic nature of our programs, schedules may change frequently, so we ask that you be flexible and adaptable. We encourage students to arrive with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, embracing the opportunity to make the most of their experience.
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 the pre departure page [here].

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.

In Their Own Words

Get an in-depth view of our Mongolia Student Program from current student and alumni experiences.