Oaxaca
Travel Dates: March 17 - 25, 2027
About / Important Dates / Courses / Program Costs / Itinerary /
Join us in Oaxaca, Mexico, where culture and community meet both modern and traditional approaches to healing. This isn鈥檛 your typical classroom experience. You鈥檒l get an inside look at the local health system and see how culture, beliefs, and daily life influence the way people care for one another. Along the way, you鈥檒l visit hospitals, clinics, public health agencies, and even connect with indigenous healers for a more complete picture of healthcare in action.
You鈥檒l explore ancient ruins, wander through colorful markets, experience vibrant festivals, and spend time immersed in everyday life within a local indigenous community. Designed for BSN students, this program focuses on hands-on learning, meaningful conversations, and real cultural connection. You鈥檒l leave with a deeper understanding of global health and memories that stick with you long after you鈥檙e home.
Program Eligibility: Senior BSN Student
International Travel & Health Information
Important Dates
Study Abroad Fair
- September 9, 2026, 10AM-1PM
- JSAC Breezeway
$200 Initial Program Fee & Application Deadline
- December 3, 2026
2nd Payment Deadline
- TBD
Final Payment Deadline
- TBD
Purchase Flight (must attend SAO workshop first)
- TBD
Sweet Send Off
- March 9, 2027, 5PM-6PM
- Maxwell Alumni House
SAO Orientation (mandatory)
- TBD
Course Offered
NURS 4501: Global Health Nursing (2 credits)
Program Leaders: Dr. Carol Hunter
This is a spring semester program. Classes meet pre- and post-travel.
Program Cost
Initial Program Fee: $200
Deadline: 12/03/2026
Program Fee: Approx.[insert cost] (excludes airfare, tuition/fees)
Final Payment Deadline: TBD
Tuition & Fees: based on number of credit hours enrolled
Itinerary Subject to Change
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MarchDay One
The journey begins as the group departs for Oaxaca, Mexico. Upon arrival, students will be welcomed at Casa Arnel, a charming guesthouse that will serve as their home base. After settling in with a late lunch and orientation, the evening concludes with a light dinner and safety briefing to prepare for the week ahead.18
MarchDay Two
The first full day offers a rich introduction to the history, culture, and traditions of Oaxaca. Students will take part in an engaging cultural orientation, followed by a guided walking tour through the city鈥檚 historic center, visiting landmarks such as the cathedral and local markets. The day closes with dinner and the option to attend a vibrant Guelaguetza cultural performance.19
MarchDay Three
The morning begins at the bustling Mercado La Merced, followed by an exploration of Monte Alb谩n, one of Mexico鈥檚 most significant archaeological sites. After lunch, the group will visit an artisan village to learn about the creation of colorful alebrijes, Oaxaca鈥檚 iconic hand-carved folk art. An evening reflection rounds out the day.20
MarchDay Four
Students travel to Teotitl谩n del Valle, a Zapotec village renowned for weaving and community traditions. Along the way, they鈥檒l visit a sustainable agricultural project before enjoying lunch at the Vida Nueva Women鈥檚 Cooperative. The group will be welcomed by community members and stay in local lodging, experiencing firsthand the warmth of Zapotec hospitality. The evening includes a traditional healing ceremony.21
MarchDay Five
Immersed in daily life with host families, students begin the day shopping in local markets before participating in a hands-on cooking experience, preparing traditional Oaxacan dishes. Later, students will lead a teaching activity within the community and end the day with a cultural session exploring the traditions of death, dying, and honoring the dead in Oaxaca.22
MarchDay Six
The day is centered around learning from local healers. Students will meet with a midwife to explore traditional birth practices, then experience a temazcal cleansing ceremony鈥攁 ritual of renewal鈥攚ith the option for massage treatments. The group returns to Oaxaca City in the evening for dinner and reflection.23
MarchDay Seven
Students will gain valuable professional insights during site visits across multiple levels of care. The morning includes a visit to a Level 3 hospital, where they鈥檒l meet with local nurses, followed by lunch at a market. In the afternoon, visits continue to a street clinic and community pharmacy before ending with an artisan workshop featuring Oaxaca鈥檚 famed black and red pottery.24
MarchDay Eight
The day begins with a visit to a Level 2 Clinica del Pueblo, followed by lunch and a tour of the local Red Cross facilities. Students will then participate in a hands-on herbal medicine workshop before enjoying free time in the afternoon. The evening concludes with a celebratory farewell dinner, reflecting on experiences shared throughout the program.
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MarchDay Nine
After a final breakfast at Casa Arnel, students will gather for one last group debrief before preparing for their departure home, carrying with them the lessons, memories, and connections formed during their time in Oaxaca.
Experience education in Oaxaca