Public Health in Mexico

Are you interested in learning more about public health issues around the world? Are you passionate about making a difference in people's lives and wellbeing? This 3 week program explores the development and maintenance of the Mexican health system in the context of how developing countries manage their health systems. The program also looks at community health – Universidad de La Salle, the host university, has excellent linkages with community organisations working in some of the poorer areas of Mexico City. This allows participants to get a feel for the 'front line' of dealing with health issues in a developing country.

The academic class components will cover various topics about health care development and practice in Mexico. There are 36 hours of academic classes, seminars and guest lectures. There is also a minimum of 23 hours of practical visits.

Spanish language proficiency is not required.

DETAILS

Name of Program

Public Health in Mexico

Destination country

Mexico

Destination city

Mexico City

Project Partner

AIM Overseas

Start Date

Mid-Year: 8 July 2019

End Date

Mid-Year: 26 July 2019

Cultural Excursions

Over the duration of the program you will discover many of Mexico City's most famous places, as well as some of the more intimate nooks and crannies of this vast, diverse city. La Salle's tour guide, Arnaldo, is absolutely revered – described universally as 'a walking book'. He is dynamic and engaging and not a detail is missed during his tours!

Some of the places you will visit are:

  • Tour of the historical Downtown Centre;
  • Basilica of Guadalupe/Pyramids;
  • Coyoacán;
  • Frida Kahlo Museum;
  • Xochimilco;
  • Chapultepec Castle;
  • Museum of Anthropology;
  • Overnight trip to Puebla

In addition, La Salle University will organise a Mexican cooking class and a Salsa lesson for you to immerse yourself into the Mexican culture!

Accommodation

Homestay; twin-share room with one other student from the program

Academic Recognition

To be negotiated on a case by case basis. The Public Health in Mexico course gets full credit for the unit Public Health 400285 or an unspecified 10 credit points (i.e. an elective worth 10cp).

Scholarships and Benefits

In an effort to support your participation in the Public Health in Mexico program we have identified a few opportunities for financial assistance. Note that you will only need to apply for these once

Option 1: Western Sydney University Student Mobility Travel Grant

The university offers students participating in a short course up to $500 to support their travel. All necessary information can be found on the Before I Go.

Option 2: OS-Help Loan

OS-HELP is not a grant/scholarship, but it is an option that we would like to bring to your attention. Eligible students can receive a deferred loan for $4000 or $8149 which is added to your existing HECS-HELP debt. Further information can be found on the OS-HELP webpage.

Cost

The program cost is $5185 (TBC) and includes:

  • tuition,
  • accommodation,
  • most meals,
  • airport pick-ups and drop offs on designated dates,
  • site visits,
  • course pack,
  • certificate,
  • AIM Overseas pre-departure service and support

You pay extra for:

  • Airfares
  • All other expenses such as travel insurance and personal expenses
While on your study tour, you will be covered by Western Sydney University's student travel insurance.

How To Apply

STEP 1: Register Your Interest

  • To be considered for this opportunity, you will be required to submit your expression of interest (opens in a new window) to AIM Overseas

STEP 2: Apply for Academic Approval

  • Discuss your preferred option with your Academic Course Adviser (ACA) or placement coordinator - visit your School website and see 'Contact'
  • To receive recognition for your overseas experience, it is important that you seek advice from your Academic Course Advisor and apply for academic approval at least 3 months prior to commencement. Find out how to apply for Academic Approval below:

STEP 3: Apply for OS-HELP 

  • You may be eligible for OS-HELP, a deferred HELP debt loan for undergraduate Australian citizens - loans of $4,000 or $6,791 are available. Academic Approval is required; have completed 80 credit points of study, and have 10 credit points remaining on return.
  • Note, depending on the program, some of the opportunities below provide a scholarship, tuition waivers, free or cheap accommodation etc.

STEP 4: Complete the 'Before I Go' Online Checklist

  • Complete the Online Checklist (opens in a new window) to ensure you have completed the important tasks before heading overseas. This includes applying for a Student Mobility Travel Grant and information about travel insurance.

For more details see Public Health in Mexico program or contact Dr Arianne Reis at a.reis@westernsydney.edu.au or (02) 4620 3136.