Study Abroad as a Public Health Major!

Thinking about studying abroad as a Public Health major? You're in the right place! Fairfield University offers a range of global opportunities designed to complement and enrich your public health education. From gaining first hand insight into healthcare systems around the world to exploring unique cultural perspectives, studying abroad can be an invaluable part of your journey as a public health student. The Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies has carefully curated a list of study abroad programs that align with your academic path, allowing you to experience the world without missing a beat on your way to graduation.

Imagine spending your sophomore spring semester in Florence, Italy, at Florence University of the Arts (FUA). Here, you'll join a cohort of Egan students taking major-required courses such as Health Communications and Biomedical Ethics. As a Public Health major, you'll also enroll in LSHHPH350: Public Health: Policy and Community, which counts as an elective for your major. Not only will you be able to continue your public health coursework, but you’ll also have the opportunity to explore historic health centers and discover the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet—all while soaking in the beauty of Florence.

In your junior year, consider studying abroad in Galway, Ireland, at Ollscoil na Gaillimhe – University of Galway. This program allows Public Health students to take 1-2 major-related courses alongside other core, minor, or elective classes for a full 15-credit semester. The University of Galway offers a diverse set of courses, including History, English, Irish Studies, Visual and Performing Arts, and more. Whether you’re exploring the rich history of Ireland or delving into public health, Galway is a vibrant city perfect for academic growth.

Spend a semester or your January break in San Jose, Costa Rica, at Veritas University through a partnership with AIFS Abroad. In Costa Rica, Public Health majors can learn about the healthcare system and public health challenges in a developing country through courses like HIS 3293: Costa Rica Health Care Systems and Tropical Medicine. Plus, you’ll have access to cultural activities such as tropical dance lessons, cooking classes, and local homestays. This program is an amazing opportunity to see how public health issues play out in a real-world setting and to enjoy the vibrant culture of Costa Rica.

Stellenbosch, South Africa, is another fantastic choice for Public Health majors interested in studying abroad during the spring of their junior year or over the summer. With courses focused on South African history and culture, Stellenbosch University will introduce you to the complex healthcare dynamics of the region. You'll take classes such as Public Health within the South African Context and Gender Identity in Africa. The program also includes excursions like visits to Robben Island, the Cape of Good Hope, and Table Mountain, giving you a deeper understanding of South Africa’s social and cultural landscape.

Public Health students at Fairfield can also explore short-term and faculty-led programs. These include a summer Comparative Healthcare Traveling program with AIFS Abroad and specialized faculty-led programs in Palliative Care Communication and Health Care Delivery Systems. These shorter options offer incredible opportunities for hands-on learning in a variety of international healthcare settings.

Studying abroad as a Public Health major isn’t just about taking classes—it’s about expanding your perspective, learning from diverse health systems, and experiencing the world. Fairfield University’s curated programs make it possible to pursue your academic goals while having the adventure of a lifetime. Start exploring today and take your passion for public health to the global stage!