• The earliest you can go abroad is the summer of your first year.
• Students may fulfill General Education Foundation and Issues requirements abroad
• Students taking at least 3 credits abroad will fulfill their Global Perspectives requirement
• Students should be working with their faculty mentor to plan and make appropriate course selections for study abroad.

Students can fulfill 200 hours or more of their practicum requirement.

Students participating in a practicum abroad will register for PH 689 – Public Health Practicum in a Global Setting.

This is considered and independent study, reach out to Kristen Cloutier [email protected]

To determine the GVSU course equivalencies for courses taken abroad, please visit our Course Approval page.

Once you have selected a program, schedule a meeting with your academic advisor to discuss your plans.

• Once you have decided on your program be sure to meet with your academic advisor at least 6 months prior to departing for your program.
• The process should begin during the first semester in the program, or no later than the second semester.
• Practicum options must meet the standards identified by the Public Health Program.
• Practicum options will be reviewed on a case by case basis by the program.

• Choose a country or organization.
• Once the organization is secured, an area of focus should be discussed and determined.
• Begin the IRB process as soon as possible.
• Consider funding. The Presidential Research Grant is one you can apply for. There are deadlines for each semester.
• Begin to meet compliance requirements, being careful of expiration dates and planned practicum. There may be additional requirements for your location. It is recommended to begin this process at least 6 months before departure.
• Begin working with the Padnos International Center. 
  • Look up GVSU's Travel Advisory Policy.
  • Begin the independent study process. This includes an application on OASIS. This must be completed at least six weeks before your practicum.
  • Work with your department to find a faculty supervisor. Schedule a meeting with Kristen Cloutier [email protected]

Why do a practicum abroad?

By doing a clinical rotation abroad, students can demonstrate cross-cultural competencies to future employers, broaden their understanding of the world and their field, and develop the soft skills necessary to work in an increasingly diverse and global world.

How are credits handled?

Students participating in a practicum abroad will register for PH 689 – Public Health Practicum in a Global Setting. This is a 3 credit course.

When should I do my practicum?

Students can do their practicum at any time during the program but should begin the process should begin during the first semester in the program, or no later than the second semester.

Is there a GPA requirement?

Graduate students need a 3.00 GPA in order to study abroad.

Is there a language proficiency requirement?

Language proficiency varies based on the individual placement. Students placed in a country whose official language is not English may be required to speak that language up to a particular level (i.e Basic, Advanced, Intermediate). Placements listed above do not require proficiency in a language other than English, even in countries where English is not the official language.

How long is a typical practicum?

Students must complete at least 200 hours to fulfill their practicum requirement. Students engaging in longer programs would need to work closely with their advisers.

What are the costs of a typical practicum abroad?

Costs vary based on program. You will work with Padnos International Center to develop a budget. You may use federal financial aid to help with rotation abroad costs.