Have you ever wanted to visit the beautiful Nordic countries of Norway and Sweden? They constantly rank among the happiest nations in the world with strong health systems and wellness-supporting lifestyles. The Department of Community and Global Health at the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health is offering a 10-day study abroad course to explore the countries’ universal health care model and culture. Andy Ware, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications with the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, shares more about this opportunity:
Question: What opportunities will students have in this new study abroad experience?
Answer: They can get a comprehensive understanding of how universal health care works in the Nordic countries by meeting and learning from local and national experts as well as observing it firsthand in a variety of health care settings in communities.
Q: Why visit Norway and Sweden?
A: To experience modern Scandinavia, their lifestyle and culture.
Q: What will students be able to do while they are there?
A: Students will visit state-of-the-art national museums, experience the famous Oslo Ski jump via zip line or simulator, relax in the Oslo bay in a floating sauna, sample the culinary scene (food market) and more.
Q: Why is it important to explore universal health care systems?
A: The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals calls for global implementation of Universal Health Care insurance by 2030, including the U.S. Therefore, it is important to get a thorough understanding of how it works. The Nordic countries are considered to have the most comprehensive and financially sound concept in the Western World.
Q: What career paths would benefit most from this kind of experience?
A: Certainly those working with Public Health Policy development and anyone involved with public or global health initiatives. All students working in medicine, nursing, social work, health and human sciences, dentistry, and many others would be inspired by what they learn and experience in this course.
Q: Is this experience available to all students?
A: Yes, all of the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health study abroad programs are open to all majors on any IU campus.
Q: Are there academic or additional requirements students must meet to participate?
A: All students are required to register for a 3-credit hour course as a requirement of participation.
Q: Are there scholarships available?
A: Yes, there are several scholarships available through the IUPUI Study Abroad Office.
Q: When and how should students apply?
A: Students will need to apply through iAbroad on the Study Abroad website. Applications are open through February 3, 2024.
Q: If students are interested, where or who can they go to for questions?
A: Students can reach out to Leah Jansen at lwissel@iupui.edu.
The office is also holding question and answer sessions via Zoom (https://iu.zoom.us/j/81221038824) from 2 to 3 p.m. Oct. 18 and 10 to 11 a.m. Nov. 15.
