Global Health Track - Program Elements
As borders between countries and continents become less distinct and international travel becomes more accessible, it is important that medical professionals be competent to work in this new and changing environment. Students at UTMB have long demonstrated a strong interest in global health, and recognize the need to treat more diverse populations, including many different ethnic groups and immigrants from around the world, as well as travelers returning from these areas. Knowledge of tropical diseases and public health issues are essential to global health.
But even more importantly, all those who profess an interest in reducing barriers to health care and disparities in health outcomes between population groups must work together to understand the many social, cultural, environmental, occupational, economic and other determinants of health that go beyond our traditional health care model. The track in Global Health will provide a framework for students to become knowledgeable and skilled in these areas.
The curriculum is integrated into the full four years of medical school, and involves coursework, clinical and/or research electives overseas or in border communities, as well as independent study and completion of a scholarly paper based on the overseas experience. The basic elements of the curriculum are noted in the table below. Some of the topics covered in the track include global public health, global infectious diseases, epidemiology, maternal and child health, nutrition, sustainable development for health, and social determinants of health and their impact on the global burden of disease. The course will be taught by a multidisciplinary team of UTMB and guest faculty with extensive experience in the topic areas.
Other requirements: Each student will have a faculty mentor, who will work with them to oversee their activities and progress in the track.
Students will be encouraged to submit a poster abstract for a local, national or international global health poster contest.
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All students enrolled in UTMB’s School of Medicine are eligible to apply for the GHT. Students should demonstrate a strong interest in global health issues, and be able to participate in all the required activities, including overseas electives. To remain in the track, students must successfully complete each required activity. Students who complete the track will be eligible to sit for the Certification Exam in Tropical and Travel Medicine through the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Full certification by ASTMH requires a medical diploma and a license, so cannot be completed until after graduation.
*Students who are interested in global health electives and other learning opportunities can enroll in individual global health electives without being enrolled in the track.
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Students interested in the track are encouraged to meet with one of the course directors. The application form is currently available on our web site: application form.
*For students who want to participate but have already completed the first year of medical school, an alternate pathway is available. Please schedule a meeting with one of the course directors to discuss requirements, as they may differ for individual students depending on prior coursework and experiences.
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PAHO/WHO Collaborating Center for Training in International Health
Students Improving Global Health Together (SIGHT)
The American Socieity of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene (ASTMH)
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