Spring Break March 6-14, 2027
PHS 2900: Global Public Health, 3 credits
CRN: TBD
Fulfills the following General Ed Requirements: High Impact IHIP and AIA
This course will meet during Spring semester 2027.
Students can apply for the Global Ambassador Scholarship on Academic Works in October 2026.
Estimated cost of the program: $4,200 (subject to change)
First Payment due Nov. 10, 2026
Second Payment due Dec. 10, 2026
Third Payment due Jan. 10, 2027
PAYMENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Pending financial aid does not cover study abroad payments. Please call Student Accounts for more details at 978.665.4126.
Learn more from the info session slideshow
This Global Public Health Program is a signature faculty-led study abroad course at Fitchburg State University. It has run multiple times to Costa Rica with Professors Benes and Stone and students from all majors are welcome. The program is designed to strengthen the student's understanding of the issues and factors constraining the achievement of public health goals around the world. The impacts of social, cultural, physical, political and economic determinants of health are analyzed in a global context. Emphasis is placed on how factors within these different determinants of health affect the provision of health services and health outcomes. Students will participate in community health fairs, explore the rainforest, go paddle boarding, shadow a nursing home, participate in a cacao ceremony, and much more.
Working Itinerary (subject to change)
| Day | Event |
|---|---|
| Sat., Mar. 6 | Depart Boston Logan International Airport. Arrive to Costa Rica in the evening. Stay overnight in San Jose. |
| Sun., Mar. 7 | Depart San Jose for Sarapiqui by bus. Enjoy an ethnobotany workshop and a Welcome Lunch (included). Check in to your accommodations and participate in a Health and Safety Orientation. |
| Mon., Mar. 8 | Visit the Horquetas Center to engage with children and the elderly at their community center. (Lunch included.) In the afternoon, experience a Cocoa Tour. |
| Tues., Mar. 9 | Visit local families at their homes and conduct health surveys. (Lunch included). In the afternoon, go to the river for SUP Stand Up Paddleboarding. (Dinner included.) |
| Wed., Mar. 10 |
Tour Finca Eco Organica to experience traditional products of the rainforest. (Lunch included). Travel to La Fortuna. Check in to your La Fortuna hotel before enjoying evening free time. |
| Thurs., Mar. 11 | Enjoy free time in La Fortuna in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the hot springs and eco termales. (Dinner included.) |
| Fri., Mar. 12 | Depart La Fortuna for Los Bajos. (Lunch included.) Enjoy a waterfall hike and stunning blue pools. Check into Sarchi accommodations. |
| Sat., Mar. 13 | Visit to a local clinic and attend a lecture on the Health System of Costa Rica. (Lunch included.) Souvenir shopping in the afternoon before a group Farewell Feast (included.) |
| Sun., Mar. 14 | Depart Costa Rica. Arrive in Boston in the evening. |
Hear from our students
2025 Global Public Health Program
