Belize
NURS 322.2 TR: Experiential Learning in Global Health
Course meets during Spring I 2027 (first half of spring semester), hybrid on Wednesdays 6:15-7:25PM
Travel occurs during Spring Break 2027 from Saturday, March 6 to Saturday, March 13, 2027
Take your learning beyond the classroom with a hands-on global health experience in Corozal, Belize. Work alongside local nurses and community health workers through home visits, clinic shadowing, wellness activities, and health education for children. Immerse yourself in Belizean culture through local family meals, community engagement, and historic site visits while building cross-cultural skills, leadership experience, and a stronger resume.
Travel Program Leaders
Dr. Jacqueline Gannon
Helen S. Breidegam School of Nursing
Dr. Beth Gotwals
Helen S. Breidegam School of Nursing
Cost
- Self-Pay Travel Cost (Students who are not Elevate Credit Eligible): $3,600
- Your Out-Of-Pocket Cost After Elevate Credit has been Applied (Valued at $2,800 for eligible students): $800
- For all travelers:
- Insurance Fee: $65 charged directly to your Student Account
- Recommended for Meals & Personal Funds: $200
- Tuition: None, if included in your spring semester course load.
Quick Facts
- Travel Agreement Deadline: October 15, 2026
- Program Length: 7 Days
- Credits: 2
- Eligibility: 2.0+ GPA, completed two consecutive semesters at MU, valid passport, completion of steps 1-2 in AMOS Travel Portal, students are not required to be nursing nor public health majors to participate.
- Accessibility: Because this program takes place in Corozal and surrounding rural communities in Belize, accessibility may be limited. Students should anticipate uneven terrain, stairs, outdoor walking and standing, heat and humidity, limited accessible transportation, and facilities that may not include ramps, elevators, or accessible restrooms. Students who may need accommodations should contact the program leader and ÐÔÊÀ½ç´«Ã½â€™s accessibility/disability-support office as early as possible so reasonable, site-specific arrangements can be explored; however, not all accommodations available in the United States can be guaranteed abroad.
- Language: English
TENTATIVE Itinerary
All the landmarks mentioned in this itinerary will be visited. Some changes may be made in the order they will be visited.
Day 1: Arrive in Belize City, Belize, and transfer to Corozal, a quiet seaside town in northern Belize near the Mexican border. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and settle into your accommodations.
Day 2: Learn about the local context in Corozal through orientation and talks on health, safety, Belizean history, culture, society, the health system, and nursing in Belize. Students will also share a traditional meal with a local family for a meaningful cultural exchange.
Day 3: Join community health workers in a village setting for home visits. Students will observe and assist with basic assessments and health education while gaining firsthand insight into community-based care in Belize.
Day 4: Shadow health professionals at a local clinic in Corozal. This experience offers students the opportunity to observe clinical practice, patient care, and the day-to-day workings of the Belizean health system.
Day 5: Participate in a mini health fair and wellness day led by community health workers. Students will engage in wellness screenings, health education, and other community health activities, followed by time for cultural connection and local activities by the sea.
Day 6: Develop and help deliver a health education program for primary school children focused on hygiene, nutrition, and healthy habits in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Later, visit Santa Rita, an important Maya archaeological site tied to the history of the region and modern Mestizo culture.
Day 7: Meet with members of the Corozal Diabetes Association to learn about community-based responses to chronic disease and local health initiatives in northern Belize. After lunch, enjoy free time at Orchid Bay Resort before gathering for a farewell dinner.
Day 8: Depart Corozal and transfer back to Belize City for your flight home.