Program Overview

Bangalore is the fifth largest city in India. It was founded in the sixteenth century by a Hoysala king and was ruled by the maharajas of Mysore throughout much of its history. Today it is the capital of the state of Karnataka and one of India’s most modern cities with malls, bargain shopping centers, espresso shops, nightclubs, and multi-cuisine restaurants. Bangalore's location is an ideal place from which to explore southern India. Within a few hours you can be wandering through the Maharaja’s Palace in Mysore, sunbathing on the beaches of Goa, visiting World Heritage Sites such as Hampi, and taking in one of the world's tallest waterfalls, Jog Falls. Cities such as Mumbai, home of Bollywood—the world’s largest film industry—are just a day's train ride away. 

Program Focus

The Bangalore program provides the extraordinary opportunity to study Indian culture, business, and humanities while volunteering in the local community with fellow students who are interested in contributing and making a difference in their society. You will be studying in one of the most prestigious and beautiful campuses in India and will gain personal exposure to the social issues of rural life. Bangalore is also an ideal place to learn how the technological and business revolution is transforming traditional Indian society into a fast-paced hybrid of East-West life. Its location in India’s Silicon Valley makes it an excellent spot for networking and developing contacts with companies involved in software and business outsourcing.

USAC students are integrated into the college atmosphere and have many opportunities to experience the culture, learn about the country, and make friends. Volunteer opportunities are available as well as college sports, clubs, and excursions to local towns and historical temples. Semester or yearlong students are required to enroll in a 1-credit Service Learning during their first semester in India and we strongly encourage summer students to do the same. You may take a program-organized Indian Cuisine course to gain even more knowledge of the local culture and we strongly recommend participating in the Optional Tours to Northern or Southern India. USAC students are also paired with Indian “buddies” to help orient them to the university and surrounding areas.