Frequently Asked Questions
Why study abroad in Mérida?
In Mérida, Yucatán, explore how Mexico balances 21st-century realities with the enduring influence of the pre-Hispanic Mayan empire. On this program, you will interact with complexities of the local culture and learn how the Mayan influence is thread differently throughout Mexico.
With an emphasis on public health and health systems, studying in Mérida creates the opportunity for students interested in healthcare to explore important issues in a setting vastly different from the United States. Explore clinical environments, explore contemporary issues in public health through the eyes of Yucatecan natives, and conduct a comparative assessment of Latin American health care systems on a program excursion to Havana, Cuba.
What is the academic focus in Mérida?
Brandeis in Mérida is an intensive academic program focused on public health and comparative health care systems. Students will spend time in the classroom and participate in site visits throughout the city and the region. The experience gleaned and lessons learned on this program are ideal for students interested in future work in public health or health care.
Students take two courses on the program taught in English. The coursework counts for eight credits at Brandeis and fulfills requirements towards the HSSP major and minor.
Does Brandeis in Mérida operate only in the summer?
Yes, the program runs from late May to early July. Students wishing to go to Mérida during the academic year should meet with a member of the study abroad staff to discuss other options.
Where will I live?
All students on the program will live with a homestay family. Your homestay will be arranged with a carefully selected host family and located within walking distance of the IFSA program center. Only one student is housed per family for maximum cultural and language integration. You will have a single bedroom with a bed, shared bathroom and desk or other designated place to study. Laundry and three meals per day are included.
If you have questions, please contact your study abroad advisor.
What is the deadline for studying abroad in the summer?
The application deadline typically falls in mid-February but interested students are encouraged to apply early. With rolling admissions, applications are reviewed up until the deadline as long as space is available.
Are Brandeis faculty involved in teaching in Mérida?
The program is designed and supervised by Brandeis faculty. A Brandeis professor will join the program onsite and assist with the transition to a new academic setting. Coursework is taught by local faculty under the guidance of the faculty in HSSP.
How do the classes taught in Mérida count for my Brandeis degree?
All courses are Brandeis courses and appear on transcripts as graded Brandeis coursework, not transfer credit.
Credits are applied automatically upon completion of your program evaluation. This program evaluation is mandatory and credit will not be applied until it has been completed.
Where can I get more information about Brandeis in Mérida?
This website has complete information about study in Mérida. Please also feel free to contact Ari Kramer in the Office of Study Abroad.
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Contact
Ari Kramer, Assistant Director of Study Abroad
Office of Study Abroad
781-736-3483