Summer 2026 programs offer global, hands-on public health experiences

David Gladow dgladow@tulane.edu
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Want to travel this summer and move your public health experience forward at the same time? WSPH summer 2026 study abroad programs offer students the chance to explore the world while gaining hands-on skills that translate directly to careers in public health. 

From food systems in Italy to community-based research in Sierra Leone, these faculty-led courses through the Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine blend rigorous academics with immersive, on-the-ground learning in diverse global and domestic settings. 

More than just travel, these programs are designed to strengthen professional skills, cultural competence, and real-world problem-solving — all within condensed, two-week formats that fit into summer schedules. 

While summer may feel far away during the colder months, now is the ideal time for students to explore options, plan ahead ,and connect with faculty leaders. 

Summer 2026 program options include:

  • Italy (IHSD 6790 Food Security and Resilience) | June 1-14
    Explore how rapidly globalizing food systems affect food and nutrition security, with a focus on sustainability and community resilience.
  • Wyoming (IHSD 6470 Leadership for Sustainable Development in the Age of Disruption) | June 28 - July 10 | 3 Credits
    This immersive experience in rural Wyoming blends leadership, sustainability, and adaptive strategies to tackle global challenges.
  • Cape Town, South Africa (IHSD 7050 Program Design and Evaluation for Vulnerable Children and Adolescents: Lessons from South Africa) | June 8-19
    Learn to design, implement, and evaluate evidence-informed programs for children and adolescents affected by HIV.
  • Havana, Cuba (IHSD 6860 - Public Health in Cuba) | May 24 - June 6
    Examine how the Cuban government has prioritized strategies to achieve universal healthcare over the past six decades.
  • Iquitos and Lima, Peru (TRMD 6760 - From Theory to Practice: Public Health Field Skills in Peru) | May 13-29
    Apply classroom concepts to real-world public health settings in both urban and rural environments.
  • Sierra Leone (TRMD 6340 - Diagnostic Methods in Microbiology) | July 18 – August 2 | 3 Credits
    Gain hands-on training in public health practice, laboratory methods, and community-based research within local communities of Sierra Leone.

The Virtual Study Abroad Fair on Wednesday, February 4 (12:00-1:00pm CT) will feature presentations on each program, followed by time for questions.

Detailed program descriptions available here.