Faculty Led International Programs (FLIPS) offer students the opportunity to engage in structured, academically rigorous educational experiences abroad under the guidance of York University faculty members. These programs are designed to enhance global competencies, deepen subject knowledge, and provide valuable cross-cultural perspectives. We invite students to explore these unique opportunities for academic growth and global engagement.
The School of Global Health offers intensive field course experience each summer through the Study Abroad Program. Some of our offerings are as follows:
- Coming May 2024 – Social Determinants of Global Health: Brazil “The Impacts of FIFA & Olympic Development in Rio de Janeiro” – HH/GH 4920 3.0
Taught by Dr. Amanda De Lisio, dive into the vibrant world of Rio de Janeiro and uncover the hidden impacts of global sporting events on urban health and development. Explore how the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Olympics transformed local communities, revealing complex intersections of health, human rights, and urban planning. Through immersive experiences, you’ll investigate how massive infrastructure projects reshape the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Gain unique insights into international urban development and its effects on community well-being. Challenge official narratives by engaging directly with local realities in this unforgettable Brazilian learning experience.
- Coming July and August 2024 – Social Determinants of Global Health: Ghana “African Perspectives on Health, Culture and Social Wellbeing” – HH/GH 4920 3.0
Taught by Dr. Godfred Boateng, explore the Social Determinants of Health in a dynamic African context. This course combines interactive academic workshops on public health issues, indigenous culture, and traditional medicine with hands-on community engagement. Experience Ghana’s rich cultural tapestry through field trips and volunteerism. Gain invaluable insights into African health systems and socio-cultural factors influencing health outcomes. Optional excursions to breathtaking natural and historical sites enhance this transformative learning experience.
Las Nubes Campus
York University’s eco-campus in Costa Rica, Las Nubes, provides learning and experiential education opportunities centred around the protection of the biological, ecological, and social values of the Las Nubes Biological Reserve and adjacent area in southern Costa Rica. Global health courses and programs in Costa Rica allow students to explore the country’s rich, complex history and social landscape while earning credits towards their degree.
- Coming July 2024 – Social Determinants of Global Health: Costa Rica “Exploring Health and Aging in Costa Rica” – HH/GH 4920 3.0
Taught by Dr. Brad Meisner, in this immersive fieldwork course, students will explore the determinants of health and aging in Costa Rica. Home to some of the longest-lived people on the planet, Costa Rica is an ideal place to study the factors that contribute to exceptional health and longevity. It is the only “Blue Zone” in the Global South, a label used to describe regions of the world where people live significantly longer and healthier lives compared to the global average. Engage in experiential learning through discussions with local people and health-related practitioners, ethical field observations, and participation in community events. These activities will take place in diverse settings where Costa Ricans live, learn, work, play, and age. Students will gain valuable insights into the personal, relational, community, environmental, socio-cultural, and historical influences that shape health, wellness, and aging across the lifespan.
Other Experiential Opportunities in Costa Rica:
The Grounded Project combines ethnographic research with documentary film making to bring awareness to issues concerning environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, health, and human well-being in Costa Rica. Senior level students in global health can engage in the process of participatory of documentary filmmaking, amplifying community voice and creating and mobilize knowledge about complex issues revealed through Grounded Theory approach. Global health practicum and research projects are open to interested students during the winter term.
“Sharing the Grounded films with communities has given me the opportunity to feel like I am really doing something to address these challenging issues in a positive and impactful way” – Lauren Doud, Global Health Student, 2023.
