Global Health Electives
The importance of public health measures, understanding social and economic determinants of health, and the global burden of disease are appropriate and timely topics for anyone studying and practicing medicine in the 21st century. Knowledge of different cultures, different health belief models and customs, how they impact on different aspects of health care and the ability to communicate across cultural boundaries are important skills for physicians to master to be effective global health care providers.
The Center offers several elective opportunities for international experiences, both in the pre-clinical and clinical years of training. The Center assists students and residents with identifying elective sites around the globe and deciding on appropriate objectives for the elective. Faculty in the Center are available for advising and counseling students about careers or other opportunities in the field of international health, as well as programs in language and cultural immersion. Research electives are also available through different departments on campus, and the Center can assist students with identifying preceptors for their specific projects. International training opportunities are also available for residents.
Need some help figuring out how to arrange an international health elective abroad? Take a look at our step-by-step guide .
Application must be complete at least 30 days prior to beginning of elective. Orientation is required for all students traveling abroad. Orientation is offered in January, April and September annually. All activities, including evaluation and trip reports must be completed within 30 days of the elective end date.
Students are cautioned NOT to make a deposit to any elective site until the application has been approved by CTIH faculty and staff.