Yep, you read the title right – you can study abroad this summer and save … Read more
Contemporary Issues in Public Health Summer Program
Gain deeper insight into contextual issues relating to public health, determinants of health and health policy using Australia’s health system and programs as an example. Designed for a broad range of students interested in public health, the immersive traveling program – which moves through Brisbane, Byron Bay, Sydney and Cairns – is taught through morning lectures followed by field excursions with a particular emphasis on the differences in health indicators for indigenous and non-indigenous populations. Along with learning about Australia’s health system, you’ll also have plenty of time to discover the country’s cultural and natural wonders with included visits to such iconic sites as the Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef and ancient Daintree Rainforest.
Overview
Examine different aspects of public health, policy and programs particularly when it comes to multicultural communities and indigenous populations to earn 3 U.S. credits
Experience the coursework come to life through an extensive series of guest lectures and immersive field trips
Traverse the country staying in some of Australia’s top destinations: Brisbane, Byron Bay, Sydney and Cairns by the Great Barrier Reef
Explore Australia’s natural beauty by kayaking with dolphins in Byron Bay, snorkeling with sea turtles in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking coastal trails, visiting the majestic Daintree Rainforest, going on a memorable dinner cruise on the iconic Sydney Harbor, learning to surf lesson at famous Bondi Beach and more
Study the unique factors that affect Aboriginal health and how systems can help support indigenous populations
Benefit from access to TEAN’s in-country staff for continued support throughout the program
Academics
About the Course
Contemporary Issues in Community and Public Health (NRS 212)
A broad range of factors determine the health of a country, community and person, and Australia in particular has a number of unique social and physical health determinants. Students will explore all factors that make up “good health” from a community and national standpoint and be able to contextualize these factors in different geographic and cultural settings. Key elements of the course include lectures, class discussions, guided walks and observation of Australia’s unique determinants of health. The course addresses communicable and non-communicable disease, health through the typical lifespan, health and the environment, health systems and health in unique populations. Indigenous culture is fundamental to understanding Australian health and indigenous cultural ties to health concepts will be explored along with how traditional health behaviors. Through interaction and observation, a range of community and public health structures will be analyzed to better understand Australia’s universal health system.
To request syllabus complete this form and indicate the name of the course (Contemporary Issues in Community and Public Health) you need the syllabus for.
Prerequisites
This introductory level course is designed for students from a variety of disciplines including science and health majors, and is relevant for broader health and cultural studies programs. It assumes no, or very little, previous health science knowledge, however health science students will still have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, particularly in practical application.
Faculty
Dr. Larimer is an experienced community/public health educator, having taught “Health Promotion Throughout the Lifespan” at DePaul University’s School of Nursing for five years. She is the Community Engagement Coordinator for the School of Nursing and led the school’s community-based service learning pedagogy shift that has engaged more than 100 community-based organizations and graduated over 1,000 students with two-year CBSL experience. She is a long-time volunteer for the American Heart Association and currently sits as the President of the AHA, Chicago Metro Board dedicated to developing community partnerships for addressing determinants of health. She is also active with the Catholic Charities of Chicago, on the Latino Advisory Council and Health Council and has experience performing collaborative community assessments and planning,
Transcript & Credits
Upon completion of the course you will be issued with an Elmhurst College academic transcript. The course is worth 3 U.S. credits. The course consists of 69 hours of class contact time over three weeks comprising field trips, lectures and presentations.
Elmhurst College, located in suburban Chicago, is accredited by the Department of Education of the State of Illinois, and by: The Higher Learning Commission, A Member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Gain an understanding of what factors go into organising Australia’s public health policies while traversing the country with stays Brisbane, Byron Bay, Sydney and Cairns.
Brisbane
Jump into the course right away in Brisbane with several days spent getting to know your group, visit a local medical school, and guest lectures by industry experts from the University of Queensland, a leading research university.
Byron Bay
From Brisbane it’s then on to beautiful Byron Bay for a couple days including a day to explore on your own – choose to kayak with dolphins, learn to surf, visit Byron Lighthouse, scuba dive in the diverse waters off Julian Rocks or watch the parade of migrating humpback whales from one of the best vantage points on the east coast.
Sydney
Next, start your time in Sydney with a walking tour including stops at some of the city’s most iconic sites, such as the Opera House and Hyde Park. While in Sydney, you’ll be studying while going out on field excursion nearly every day to really bring the course content to life with visits to schools, community centers, foundations and recovery programs. Cultural experiences are also included, like doing the famous Sydney-Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk, a dinner cruise in Sydney Harbour, a tour of the Sydney Opera House and private surfing lessons at famous Bondi Beach.
Cairns
For the last few days of the program, head to the northern city of Cairns, known for its tropical climate and access to the Great Barrier Reef. After taking your final assessment, explore one of the country’s most unique regions hiking in the historic Daintree Rainforest with an indigenous guide, visiting the Great Barrier Reef Excursion and enjoying a farewell dinner.
Eligibility
Eligibility
- 2.5 GPA
- Currently enrolled at an approved degree-granting institution of higher education.
Program Details
Housing
Students will be housed in a variety of accommodation styles when travelling, including shared budget-style accommodation and student apartments.
Group Flight
International air travel and flights within Australia is organized through Qantas via our partner, STA Travel. Upon application participants will be provided complete airfare and booking details.
TEAN Staff
Throughout the program, students are joined by local TEAN staff along with U.S.-based TEAN staff who oversee the course and provide 24/7 support. Feel free to come to them with any questions or concerns you may have and make sure to ask them about what to do or where to go during your travels – they have plenty of insider recommendations!
Dates, Fees & Inclusions
Application Deadline
TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application as soon as possible for Summer applications. Earlier applications will be accepted. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.
Summer 2019
| Early Application Deadline | Feb 1 |
| Application Deadline | April 21 |
| Arrive in Australia | June 22 |
| Program Ends | July 14 |
2019 Program Fees
$5,250
Early Bird Special
$4,950
Must apply online, submit your transcripts and pay the $500 program deposit before February 1, 2019
What’s Included
- Tuition (3 credits on an Elmhurst College transcript)
- All accommodation
- Airport transfers and all course-related ground transport
- Overseas health insurance, plus evacuation and repatriation insurance
- TEAN Orientation upon arrival
- Program-specific excursions including visiting the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, sea kayaking in Byron Bay, surfing lessons at Bondi Beach, a tour of the Sydney Opera House and a walking tour of Sydney’s main attractions
- Numerous field trips that complement the lectures including visits to UQ Mayne Medical School, a primary school, the Sydney Community Center for Older Adults, the Redfern Foundation supporting aboriginal communities and more
- Some meals
- Program-specific excursions
- Staff and resources available 24/7 to provide assistance and recommendations during emergencies
- Pre-departure planning sessions and assistance from U.S.-based TEAN staff including pre-departure guidance for students
What’s Not Included
- Airfares (Budget approx $2,500)
- Some meals
Scholarships
We Love Australia
Michelle Florance
Director - South Pacific
Sydney Tip
Cheap Eats
Food courts in Australia are probably not what you are used to from back home – here you can get some really fresh, delicious options for dinner and lunch. Check out Sussex Centre food court in Chinatown and Level 5 at Westfield in the CBD to start.
Q&A
What led you to your current role as TEAN’s Director – South Pacific?
I’ve worked in study abroad for more than 25 years at UNSW…20 of which was with the TEAN program! I managed the Study Abroad & Exchange portfolios at UNSW and when I was approached to take on this new role, I was very excited to try something new with a company that I have a lot of respect for. I love what TEAN does – from recruitment to in-country support and everything in between. We are truly hands-on and our students have the experience of a lifetime.
What originally got you into the field?
While I was studying at UNSW I worked casually in the Study Abroad Office and met some great international students. I don’t mean to sound cliche but I loved being involved in their life-changing experiences – that was what hooked me. I was originally just going to continue for a year and then move to the U.K. but obviously the job changed my career path indefinitely.
What is the best part of your job?
Seeing the students live their best life. I also love seeing and hearing about their experiences while abroad, like what changed them and what they didn’t expect. They leave our program a different person – one that is ready to take on the world. Again a cliche but it’s true!
What are some of the common challenges student have to overcome to study in Australia?
Students are shocked by how different Australia actually is from the U.S. They see the same icons and pop culture but, underneath, we have a very different culture. I think students can sometimes go through culture shock more than if going to study in a country with another language because the differences aren’t obvious at first so are very surprising. The university degrees are set up differently here too. Most degrees are only three years and there aren’t as many electives. Australia’s teaching methods and assessments are different as well, more independent which I feel students get used to and like. Worrying about credits transferring to home universities is a concern so students need to work closely with their advisors before leaving their home schools.
In your experience what makes Sydney a great place to study abroad?
Australia overall has excellent universities, incredible cities and is very safe. Sydney in particular is a fabulous multicultural city that offers absolutely anything and everything you could want. The busy weekly lifestyle gives way to laid back weekends and exploring new areas, taking in shows at the Opera House, or a sporting match at the former Olympic Park. Or you can just grab brunch or coffee at the beach! You can make your experience what you want.
Cairns Tip
Trinity Beach
A great local beach is Trinity Beach just north of the downtown. Hop on a bus from the city centre to spend a day on the sand and check out the local cafes for lunch!
Q&A
Where have you traveled and lived in Asia Pacific?
I lived and worked in Sydney for a year. I also had an internship in Sydney in college. I have also traveled to China, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Japan, and New Zealand.
Can you share some of the highlights or lessons from your time living abroad?
The biggest lesson I have learned from my time abroad is adaptability. Living in another country can really bring you out of your comfort zone and force you into situations where you have to go with the flow. I learned to embrace the differences of the different cultures I was experiencing rather than wishing I could have the same things/experiences I was used to back home in the U.S. I loved navigating my way around new places, getting lost and discovering the best places that I just stumbled upon because I was up for whatever came my way.
What are your recommendations for top places to check out in Sydney?
There are so many great suburbs that offer a little something different for everyone. I LOVE Bourke Street Bakery in Surry Hills, specifically their sausage rolls and lemon tart, but everything is amazing. I also recommend enjoying some of the northern beaches as they are much less crowded and gorgeous. People should also do the Manly to Spit Bridge walk as it is stunning!
What do you think makes Singapore an amazing place to study abroad?
Singapore is one of those hidden gems in Southeast Asia. I feel like it is a very misunderstood country as people think everything is just glass highrise buildings and everything is really expensive. There are actually some really great neighborhoods with lots of different cultures represented. Owning a car and buying an apartment are expensive, but for day to day life for a study abroad student, it’s a very affordable study abroad destination.
What is your advice for a student who is on the fence about studying abroad?
I would always tell students who were on the fence about studying abroad that they will never look back and say, I really wish I didn’t spend five months in Australia or wherever they are thinking about going. Studying abroad is such a life-changing experience and even if the first few weeks are tough, you learn so much about yourself and how well you can navigate the unknown.
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