Mexico

Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula offers students a unique opportunity to expand their medical knowledge while immersing themselves in one of the world's most culturally rich regions. From observing patient care in local medical centers to exploring the traditions and history of Mayan and Mexican communities, our experiences in Mexico give students valuable insight into how culture, environment and healthcare intersect.

OST 686 – Global Health: Mexico – Pre-Clinical Observation (3 Credits)

Complete clinical observations and learn about the Mexican healthcare system in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, a region abundant with Mayan-influenced culture and natural wonders. This pre-clinical program, offered during the spring and summer semesters, gives students an opportunity to conduct pre-clinical observations in area medical centers in Merida, Mexico, while learning more about the history, culture, and biodiversity of the Yucatan. Medical students can participate in this pre-clinical observation.

Eligibility Requirements:

Student must be in good academic standing (no failed courses on academic record) at the time of departure.
Student must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 at the time of application.
This program is open to MSU undergraduate, graduate, first-year medical and MS in Global Health students.

Spring 2027: March 6 - 14, 2027

Course Duration: 1 week

"I would describe this course and experience as one of the best experiences of my life. Through this program, I learned so much about healthcare and medicine in another country, which truly expanded my knowledge and mind, met so many people I hope to remain close with, and learned a lot about a new culture and got to see a new city. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything and I am grateful for having the opportunity."

- Spring 2026 Participating Student

"What I valued most about the Global Health program in Mérida was the opportunity to directly engage with healthcare delivery in a different cultural and resource setting. Through clinical exposure and community interactions, I gained a deeper understanding of how social determinants of health, access to care, and cultural beliefs influence patient outcomes. I especially appreciated working with local providers and learning how they adapt clinical decision-making with limited resources. Additionally, being immersed in the community alongside my peers fostered meaningful discussions about global health equity and strengthened my commitment to serving diverse and underserved populations in my future career as a physician."

- Spring 2026 Participating Student

"A great way to learn about how medicine in Mexico differs from that in the U.S. in both schooling and practice. Really eye-opening and important to see that people do not have the same healthcare luxuries we do in the U.S. Wonderful hands-on opportunities, and the staff was all very welcoming and open to observation and discussion. The coordinators were extremely helpful, and overall, the program was just wonderful. A super safe place to travel with a good balance of rotations, lectures, and free time."

- Spring 2026 Participating Student

Available Programs

OST 686 – Global Health: Mexico – Pre-Clinical Observation (3 Credits)