Consistent with its goal of "Inspiring Education in Bhutan", Royal Thimphu College's first major on-going academic partnership with an American college, Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts, won an award in the "Innovative New Program-Study Abroad" category from GoAbroad.com. The award was announced on May 31 at the annual conference of NAFSA: Association of International Educators held in Houston, Texas and attended by nearly 9,000 professionals in the field. Entries were judged by a group of international educators on the basis of quality, originality and creativity.

The Wheaton-RTC program, launched in fall 2010, calls for a continuing partnership for the mutual benefit and development of students and faculty at both colleges. Each year, RTC welcomes a batch of Wheaton students in the fall semesters who live with RTC students in the RTC residence halls, and fully participate in RTC campus life. Under the guidance of a Wheaton faculty member, students take four courses during the semester, including a language and culture class and a practicum experience at a local service organization. They also visit many natural and historic sites. Beginning next year, RTC expects to receive Wheaton students in the spring semester as well.

The Wheaton-RTC partnership not only provides the Wheaton students with an enriching experience but helps Bhutanese students build the skills and experiences that will help them be successful as they enter the job market upon graduation.

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