Study Abroad to Guatemala
Former participants describe the College of Nursing’s Guatemala program as a transformative experience. Guided by ECU’s mission of student success, public service, and regional transformation, and the College of Nursing’s focus on improving health in underserved regions, this elective course offers students meaningful opportunities to grow as future nurses through language study, cultural immersion, and hands-on community health practice.
Program Details
NURS 4220: Perspectives in International Community Health Nursing is a three-credit, three-week elective service-learning course in Guatemala. Open to undergraduate students in nursing and related health fields, the program blends Spanish language learning, hands-on public health experience, and cultural immersion. ECU nursing faculty guide and participate in activities, providing mentorship and support throughout the program.
What You’ll Do
- Live with Guatemalan host families – share daily meals, join in family celebrations, and experience local traditions.
- Learn Spanish – complete 60 hours of one-on-one instruction in Antigua with experienced local teachers.
- Contribute to public health – lead activities in schools, support women’s groups, and engage with community organizations.
- Gain experience in care delivery – provide health screenings and primary care outreach with Guatemalan physicians, local leaders, and ECU faculty.
- Explore Guatemala – visit plantations, shop at bustling Mayan markets, and take a boat ride on Lake Atitlan.
For More Information and to Apply
To Apply:
Go to the PiratesAbroad website and search for NURS 4220-International Perspectives in Community Health Nursing, then click Apply Now.
Learn more:
Watch the informational session recording on Panopto.
The slides include QR codes linking to several scholarship opportunities to help support your travel.
Financial Aid:
Available to eligible students.
Application Deadline:
December 5, 2025
Questions?
Contact:
- Claudia Kitchin, Program Director, kitchinc22@ecu.edu
- Karen Saxer, saxerk23@ecu.edu