Program Dates: March 18-26, 2026
About / Important Dates / Courses / Program Costs / Itinerary / Apply Now
Join us in Oaxaca, Mexico where culture and community intersect with modern and traditional medicine. This isn’t your average classroom experience. You’ll dive deep into the local health system and uncover how culture, beliefs, and daily life shape the way people heal. Visit hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, and indigenous healers, gaining a holistic view of how healthcare really works in diverse communities. But it’s not all stethoscopes and site visits.
You’ll also explore ancient ruins, colorful markets, vibrant festivals, and even take part in the everyday life a local indigenous community. This program is all about hands-on learning, real conversations, and cultural connections for BSN students. You’ll come home with a broader perspective on global health and a heart full of unforgettable memories.
Program Eligibility: Senior BSN Student
International Travel & Health Information
Study Abroad Office
Summerville Campus
Suite 251
NURS 4501: Global Health Nursing
Program Leaders: Dr. Carol Hunter
Application Deposit: $200
Deposit Due: TBD
Program Fee: TBD (includes deposit)
Final Payment Due: TBD
Tuition & Fees: based on number of credit hours enrolled
Itinerary Subject to Change
18
MarchStudents will begin their journey to southern Mexico, arriving in the beautiful city of Oaxaca. Upon arrival, the group will travel to Casa Arnel, their charming local lodging. After a late lunch and check-in, students will participate in an orientation and safety briefing. A light dinner will follow, allowing everyone to ease into the rhythms of life in Oaxaca.
19
MarchThe day starts with breakfast at Casa Arnel, followed by a morning session exploring the history, culture, and social norms of the region. After lunch, students will head out on a guided walking tour through Oaxaca’s historic Old Town, including visits to the Cathedral and local marketplaces. In the evening, students can opt to attend a Guelaguetza cultural performance—a vibrant display of Oaxacan music, dance, and costume—before ending the day with a group reflection.
20
MarchStudents begin the day with a visit to the bustling Mercado La Merced. The morning continues with a tour of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features ancient Zapotec ruins and a museum. After lunch, students will visit an Alebrijes artisan village, where they’ll see how these colorful folk art sculptures are made. Dinner and a reflective evening session round out the day.
21
MarchThe group will leave the city and travel to Teotitlán del Valle, known for its rich Zapotec culture and community-based projects. En route, they’ll stop by a sustainable agricultural project to learn about food systems and environmental stewardship. After arriving, they’ll enjoy lunch and receive an orientation at Vida Nueva, a women’s cooperative committed to social change. Students will settle into local lodging and participate in a powerful traditional Zapotec healing ceremony after dinner.
22
MarchThe day begins with breakfast with host families, offering a glimpse into daily life in the village. Students will shop for ingredients at the local market and take part in a traditional Oaxacan cooking class, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, they’ll lead a student-planned educational activity for the community. After dinner, the group will attend a cultural session exploring traditions surrounding death, dying, and honoring the dead.
23
MarchStudents will meet with a local midwife in the morning to learn about traditional birth practices. After lunch, the group will experience a Temazcal ceremony, a Mesoamerican steam bath ritual used for purification and healing. Optional massages will be available afterward. That evening, the group returns to Oaxaca City for dinner and a group debrief.
24
MarchThe morning begins with a special breakfast at Itanoni, a restaurant dedicated to indigenous maize traditions. Students will visit a Level 3 hospital (Hospital Especial) to meet with local healthcare professionals. After lunch at a local market, the group will visit a street clinic and community pharmacy for insight into Level 1 care. The day concludes with a visit to pottery artisans known for their traditional black and red clay work, followed by dinner and a reflection session.
25
MarchThe final full day in Oaxaca starts with a visit to a Level 2 rural health clinic (Clinica del Pueblo). After lunch, students will tour the local Red Cross and participate in an herbal medicine workshop, deepening their understanding of integrative healing practices. The late afternoon includes some free time, and the program wraps up with a celebratory farewell dinner.
26
MarchAfter breakfast at Casa Arnel, students will pack up and participate in a final group debrief. Any remaining free time can be used for last-minute shopping or exploring before afternoon departure and return travel home.
