Comparative Healthcare & Innovation
Valencia, Spain | Summer
Explore the Spanish healthcare system's history, structure, and culture by learning from local physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and patients. Study the social, cultural, structural, and technological factors that affect individual and community health through analysis of local healthcare systems and discussions on healthcare stories. Gain an understanding of the Spain's healthcare history by visiting a historic hospital. Discover more recent innovations in healthcare through a visit to a regional center with medical 3D printing capabilities. Gain an appreciation for the complexity of healthcare delivery and hone your critical thinking skills for overcoming healthcare challenges — all skills that will serve you in your future career.
Eligibility
This program is open to all interested undergraduate students but may be of particular interest to students majoring in pre-health fields, including Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences, Nursing, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Social Work, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Public Health, and other health adjacent fields.
Other Considerations & Requirements
Priority is given to students in good conduct standing with a GPA of 2.5 or higher; exceptions may be granted upon appeal.
Note: Do not purchase airline tickets until advised to do so in the IP portal.

FSU Valencia Study Center
Positioned behind the iconic Serrano Towers as pictured here, the FSU Valencia study center is located in the heart of the city’s historic district. The building brings history to life with exposed 10th century Moorish walls and glass floors that showcase 14th century leather tanning tanks. Modern comforts including classrooms, a computer lab, study spaces, and administrative offices blend in seamlessly with the historic features, creating a remarkable learning environment.
Housing
Program housing is in shared apartments in the historic district of the city. Apartments are located either on the top floors of the study center or in nearby buildings. Each apartment includes a fully-equipped kitchen, shared bathroom, and a furnished living area. Wi-Fi and a regular cleaning service with a change of bed linens and towels is included. You'll also have access to laundry facilities.
Note: Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing.
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Academics
On this program, you'll study a focused curriculum with an FSU faculty member. You’ll have the opportunity to use the city as your classroom through immersive academic experiences.
Excursions & Activities
You'll receive a program calendar before you leave; here are some examples taken from past programs of potential excursions & activities you may do:
Overnight trip: Madrid, Barcelona, or other Mediterranean location
Day trips: Nature activities, visits to sports sites, wineries, Albufera Natural Park, Xativa Castle, and/or other historic sites
Academic & other local experiences: Paella making class, local museum visits
Class visits: Hospital de los Inocentes (first mental hospital in Europe), regional innovation center with 3D printing for medical applications & implant manufacturing, LaGrua Estudio (hear from local authors & artists who have influenced health narratives), local hospital, clinic, & pharmacy visits, and guest speakers (may include: European clinical trial specialist, local physicians, & other health innovators)
