By: Kathryn Marques '27
Thinking of taking your nursing education beyond the classroom and into the world? Global Fairfield offers amazing study abroad opportunities designed specifically for nursing majors, allowing you to explore global healthcare systems while staying on track with your degree. The Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies has carefully designed these programs to ensure a seamless academic experience, so you can expand your horizons without delaying your path to graduation.
Florence, Italy: Sophomore Spring
Nursing students at Fairfield can study in Florence during the spring of their sophomore year. This program, hosted at Florence University of the Arts (FUA), allows students to take general education and elective courses while immersing themselves in one of Europe’s most historic cities. This program requires students to enroll in 5 courses, 3 credits each (except for the 4 credit Nursing courses), for an 18 credit semester abroad. During the semester, students will take prescribed major courses, a Core or elective course and complete clinical hours. Students will be required to request two recommendations as part of the program.
Key Features:
- Courses integrate Florence’s rich history, art, and culture, allowing students to learn both inside and outside the classroom.
-Students are enrolled in a 1-credit Med Talk course, as well as a Clinical Prep course, to best prepare for their clinical experience in Florence.
- Unlike the other nursing study abroad options, students do not have to complete extra coursework after returning to the U.S., making it a more flexible option.
This program is ideal for students looking for a well-rounded academic and cultural experience before entering their clinical rotations in junior year.
Galway, Ireland: Junior Spring
The University of Galway in Ireland offers a semester abroad for nursing students during their spring junior year. Located in one of Ireland’s most culturally rich cities, the program provides students with the opportunity to experience European healthcare practices while continuing their nursing education. Applicants are required to submit 2 academic references from Fairfield faculty who have seen them in an academic setting as part of their application. Students participating in this program will take 5 prescribed Nursing courses for a total of 15 credits. Additionally, it is required to complete clinical hours at a local hospital in Galway. Students will complete the assigned 16 hours of clinical over two 8-hour shifts.
Key Features:
- Students gain first-hand exposure to Ireland’s healthcare system, which is known for its universal coverage and strong emphasis on patient-centered care.
- Upon returning to the U.S., students are required to complete a medication and skills review (NURS 3312 Medical Surgical Nursing 1) on campus from mid-May to mid-June to continue in the traditional nursing progression.
- Students make up 20% of the population in Galway, which presents an added element of youth and excitement to the program.
This program is an excellent option for students interested in learning about European healthcare policies and patient care approaches, while also experiencing Ireland’s rich history and culture.
Townsville, Australia: Junior Fall
Nursing students have the opportunity to study at James Cook University (JCU) in Townsville, Australia, a prestigious institution known for its strong focus on health sciences and tropical medicine. This semester-long program, typically running from July to November of junior year, offers students the chance to engage with Australia’s healthcare system while living in a vibrant coastal city. Students participating in this program will take 4 prescribed Nursing courses for a total of 13 credits.
Key Features:
- Students complete coursework that aligns with Fairfield’s nursing curriculum, ensuring they stay on track with their degree.
- Prior to the semester abroad, students are required to complete the summer course NURS 2272 with Nutrition Modules to continue in the traditional nursing progression.
- JCU offers exposure to unique healthcare challenges, such as rural and indigenous healthcare, broadening students’ perspectives on global nursing practices.
This program is ideal for students seeking a hands-on international learning experience in a country with a high-quality healthcare system and diverse patient populations.
For more details regarding housing, course offerings, and the application process, visit Global Fairfield’s website. There, you will find comprehensive information on each program, eligibility requirements, and resources to help you plan your study abroad experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your nursing education beyond the classroom and into the world!
