Mexico: Cultural Competence in Human Services - A Mexican Immersion Experience

  Mexico

• Oaxaca: 
Oaxaca

Term: Winter 
Dates: Please contact us for updates

Description: This three-week, 6-credit program in Mexico provides graduate and undergraduate students with an intensive immersion experience and structured opportunities to acquire cultural competence in working and communicating with Spanish-speaking clients. The program takes place in the central historic district of Oaxaca (pronounced Wa-ha-ca), a beautiful colonial city in southern Mexico. The state of Oaxaca is extremely diverse, both culturally and ecologically, with a large and visible indigenous population. Oaxaca city is small and colorful, with numerous shops, art galleries, museums, and cafes. The downtown area bustles with pedestrians late into the night. The Zócalo, or central plaza, is a community gathering place for music, dance, and indigenous artisans selling art, jewelry, clothing, and leather goods.

Participants will combine intensive Spanish language classes with lectures, discussion, and site visits to human service organizations. We will also visit cultural and historical sites to gain a greater understanding of the history, economy, culture, and economic conditions of the region and its people.

FMSC 498C/698C is an approved CORE diversity course. Participants will also earn credit for FMSC 498L/698L, Human Services for Latino Clients. The courses are designed to provide students with cultural sensitivity and a perspective on their own culture, which will increase their ability to work effectively with clients from all backgrounds.

Highlights: The Solexico Language and Cultural Center will provide intensive Spanish language instruction and coordinate homestays with Mexican families. The center is located in the heart of Oaxaca's Historical Center, four blocks from the Zocalo, and two blocks from beautiful Santo Domingo, a former convent now serving as a cultural center and regional museum.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: 2,660 USD

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Mexico Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Scholarships are Available. The Study Abroad Office offers partial scholarships for UM undergraduate students to aid with the cost of attending a Winter Term program. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and financial need.

Application Process Involves:

• Essay
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Transcript
• Written Application