BUx: The Practitioner’s Guide to Global Health

by Boston University

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to global health learning experiences, ranging from clinical rotations to volunteer work abroad. Covering three main stages—preparation, on-site activities, and reintegration post-experience—it provides essential guidance for undergraduate and graduate students, medical trainees, and volunteers. The course focuses on building knowledge to choose suitable projects, prepare effectively, manage on-the-ground challenges, and reintegrate after the journey.

Selection of appropriate global health projects aligned with personal and professional goals
Planning and managing logistics, security, and cultural aspects
Handling professional, ethical, cultural, and health-related challenges in diverse settings
Strategies for successful reintegration into home and work environments after the experience
Advocacy for expansion of global health opportunities within their institutions

No specific prerequisites are required for this course. It is suitable for anyone interested in engaging with global health experiences.

Evaluating the suitability of global health learning experiences
Preparation for the field including logistics, health, and safety
On-the-ground actions and problem-solving in international settings
Addressing post-trip challenges and reintegration
Developing advocacy skills for promoting global health learning

This course is tailored for undergraduate and graduate students, medical trainees, and individuals interested in volunteering or engaging in research projects worldwide in the field of global health.

Skills acquired from this course can be applied in diverse settings, enhancing participants' ability to successfully undertake international health projects, face and overcome various cultural and logistical challenges, and leverage their experience to improve global health practices and policies within their own organizations.