Development and implementation of a semester program in Mexico for senior nursing students

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• International Health
• Cultural Competency

Background:

• Michigan State University College of Nursing (CON) partnered with the University of Guanajuato.
• A need for global perspectives in nursing education was identified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a novel semester-long study-abroad program for senior nursing students.
• To provide international clinical and academic experiences in Mexico.

Main Methods:

• The program included intensive Spanish language instruction.
• Required nursing courses were taught by Mexican faculty.
• Students engaged with Mexican healthcare practices and culture.

Main Results:

• Students gained a broad perspective on nursing and healthcare in Mexico.
• Participants developed enhanced cultural appreciation and language skills.
• The program fostered an innovative model for international nursing education.

Conclusions:

• The study-abroad program successfully integrated language, culture, and nursing education.
• This initiative offers a valuable model for developing international nursing curricula.
• The program enhanced students' global understanding of healthcare.