SUMMER STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

GLOBAL HEALTH (THAILAND)


A 4-credit Global Field Engagement Program in Thailand

AT A GLANCE

  • Global Field Engagement Program
  • Disciplinary Track: Global Health
  • Study Abroad Destination: Thailand
  • 2026 Dates: June 6-26 (3 weeks)
  • Credit: 4 U.S. credit hours (~ 8 ECTS credits) for eligible university students
  • Eligibility: Any field and level of study

Apply by clicking the button at the top >
Contact us for more information >

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Engage with Global Health Challenges in Thailand
Embark on a transformative journey and complete a Global Field Engagement Course. The program offers a deep dive into critical global health issues through a structured two-course program, underpinned by six core modules that cover key thematic aspects of global health. Situated in Thailand, a country celebrated for its innovative and efficient approaches to public health, the program blends theoretical learning with practical application, providing students with a dynamic and impactful educational experience. They will study general subjects such as the global burden of disease and determinants of health, local health systems, and global health governance as well as specialist topics such as infectious diseases, mental health, or maternal and child health.
Program Highlights
  • Interdisciplinary learning: Take a real-world dive into key concepts of global health in an Asian living laboratory.
  • Field-based insights: Participate in excursions and projects that showcase Thailand's leadership in public health.
  • Community impact: Work on projects that not only enhance your learning but also contribute positively to local communities.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.

ACADEMICS

Program Structure
The Global Field Engagement Course in Global Health is an intensive, 4-credit program spanning three weeks plus pre-program eLearning. Students undergo a transformative learning journey, engaging with critical global issues through an interdisciplinary approach. The program is delivered in a sequence that builds from theoretical understanding to practical, hands-on experience. This progression ensures that students not only learn about global issues but also apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Learning Outcomes
  • Comprehensive understanding of global health issues: Gain a nuanced understanding of global and local health challenges through targeted modules.
  • Practical skills in global health practices: Develop hands-on skills by participating in field-based and community-driven projects.
  • Strategic application of knowledge: Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations during the community-engaged learning portion of the course, demonstrating the ability to devise and execute global health solutions.
Further Details
Empty space, drag to resize

YOUR DESTINATION: THAILAND

The Land of Smiles is a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. As one of Southeast Asia’s most influential economies, Thailand has experienced rapid urbanization and technological advancement while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. The country’s bustling cities and thriving industries contrast with its rural heartlands, where Buddhist traditions and community life still shape daily experiences. Yet, balancing economic growth with social and environmental sustainability remains a key challenge for the nation’s future.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Thailand is a captivating blend of ancient traditions, modern cities, and breathtaking natural beauty.

As part of the program, you will experience the country’s vibrant culture and welcoming communities. In Bangkok, explore the stunning Grand Palace, visit sacred temples like Wat Arun, and take a boat ride along the bustling Chao Phraya River. Wander through Chatuchak Market, one of the largest in the world, and enjoy authentic Thai street food.

Beyond the capital, Thailand offers spectacular landscapes and traditions.
Visit the floating markets, trek through hill tribe villages near Chiang Mai, and explore ancient ruins in Ayutthaya. Spend weekends on the pristine beaches of Phuket and Krabi, go island hopping in the Andaman Sea, or discover the jungle wilderness of Khao Sok National Park.

Thailand’s cuisine is world-famous, and you’ll have the chance to take Thai cooking classes and try iconic dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. You can also immerse yourself in Thai wellness traditions, from meditative temple stays to authentic Thai massages that blend relaxation with ancient healing techniques.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.

HOUSING & MEALS

The program includes 3 weeks in Thailand. For this time, GEI Thailand offers different housing options that students can choose from, pending availability. These include:
  • Homestays: Typically single rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • Serviced apartments: Single or shared double rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • University residence halls at our local partner universities: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities
  • Simple guesthouses: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities


Homestay host families typically provide breakfast and dinner. Students in serviced apartments, university residence halls, or guesthouses are usually responsible for all meals outside of core course meals.

You can find additional information in the following blog post: Accommodation – What to expect.

DATES, FEES, AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Program Dates

Application Due Date

Fees

Summer 2026 (3 weeks): June 6-26

Summer 2026: April 1

Summer 2026: US $3,650 (3 weeks)

At GEI, we strongly believe in equal access to academic opportunities in study abroad. In order to help eliminate financial barriers, we offer a variety of merit scholarships, trailblazer scholarships, and opportunity scholarships and grants, ranging from $500 to full tuition awards. Each year, GEI is awarding several hundred thousand dollars in scholarships. You can find further information as well as additional resources for external funding opportunities in the following blog post: Scholarships & Grants.

INSTRUCTORS & COORDINATORS

Meet our core team

All of our instructors and coordinators are highly experienced and resourceful professionals.
Waleed Fatth, MPH
Program Director
Francoise Uzamukunda, MA
Academic Director, East Africa
Thuy Phan, MA
Academic Director, Vietnam
Chone Chaowai, MIDP
Academic Director, Thailand
Kari Cousins, MA/MSc
Academic Director, Southern Africa
Yvan Rubengebenge
Operations Manager, Rwanda
Eric Kingoina, DCS
Operations Manager, Kenya
Dang Huynh, BA
Operations, Vietnam
Denyse Iradukunda, BA
Operations, Rwanda
Sammy Davies Mochama, BSc
Operations, Kenya
Mabwe Gwamure, BSc
Operations, South Africa

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Get started!
Contact us for more information >