Santiago, Chile

January Term - Health Studies

Study Abroad
Length:
Spring, January Term

At a Glance

Housing:

Homestay

Credits:

3 per Term

Language of Instruction:

English, Spanish

Language Prerequisites:

None

Visa Required:

Maybe

About the Program

Ideal for students considering careers in health-related fields, this program offers you the opportunity to learn about health care policy and delivery systems in the context of Chile’s public and private health care system. 

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Clinical Observation

Observe patient care in diverse health care facilities.

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Health Care Seminar

Understand the state of Chile’s community-centered public health.

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Travel in Chile

Join an IES Abroad field trip.

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Cultural Events & Activities

Take advantage of the cultural events we organize in Santiago.

January Term 2025

Program Dates:

Early January - Late January

Application Deadline:

Estimated Cost:

$
4,265

Program Advisor

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Lindsay Smith

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

Metropolitan Cathedral in Plaza de Armas, Santiago's main square

Why Santiago?

Study abroad in Santiago and gain unique insight into the field of health care! Ideal for students considering careers in health-related fields, this program offers you the opportunity to learn about health care policy and delivery systems in the context of Chile’s community-centered public and private health care system. An important component of the program introduces you to historical, social, and cultural aspects of health care specific to Chile, including the treatment of illness and patients’ rights.

Learn More About Santiago

Get to Know Your New City

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Bite Into a Chilean Empanada

Visit a panadería to try this savory local dish.

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Hike Cerro Pochoco

Get a taste of the Andes Mountains right in Santiago’s backyard.

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See the Street Art

Have lunch and stroll through the art-covered barrio of Bellavista.

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Visit Sky Costanera for a 360° View of Santiago

Take an elevator to the top of Sky Costanera for the city's best views.

The Student Experience

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Housing

Students sit around a patio table with their host family at a Santiago homestay.
  • Homestay

Homestay

You'll live with a family or señora who helps facilitate your language learning and integration into Chilean society. Your homestay host provides two meals per day. Internet access and on-site laundry will be available.

Academics

Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible, which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. 

We offer unique courses that explore Spanish language, Chilean health, and culture through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our world-class professors and course options enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class. 

Courses

You enroll in one course, divided in two parts, for a total of 3 credits: HL395 Health Studies: Clinical Observation and the Cultural Aspects of Health Care in Chile.

  • Clinical Observation and Seminar

    This component includes an academic seminar and clinical observations. The seminar examines the global perspectives of Chilean health and health care systems and provides the framework for your clinical experience. The clinical observations allow you to visit private and public clinics/hospitals and interact with different health care professionals. Experience and study the diverse responsibilities held by a variety of health care professionals. 

    NOTE: According to the Chilean Ministry of Health, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including two booster shots (four doses total) to participate in the required Clinical Observation portion of this program.

  • Spanish for Health Care Practitioners

    The intensive Spanish language component reviews fundamental aspects of culture and grammar and introduces you to vocabulary related to health care in Chile. This component will allow you to improve your Spanish in a Chilean health care context, further preparing you for a successful experience in this program. 

To learn more about IES Abroad’s innovative theoretical and pedagogical approaches to teaching language abroad, refer to the IES Abroad MAP for Language & Intercultural Communication

NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.

IES Abroad Courses

Disciplines (1)

Health Studies (1)

PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Learn More
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Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Santiago, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

January Term 2025

Tuition
$
3,264
Housing
$
941
Insurance
$
60
Total
$
4,265

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

Learn More
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About the IES Abroad Center

The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.  

The IES Abroad Santiago Center is located in Providencia, a vibrant residential neighborhood in central Santiago. Whether you’re in between classes, studying in the open-air courtyard, or eating in the shared kitchen and dining area, the Center is your study abroad hub.   

 

Orientation

Start at Home
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and the city.
Arrive in Santiago
Orientation continues when you arrive onsite with activities focusing on adjusting to Santiago. Detailed information about other important topics is also covered.
On-Site Staff Support
Our experienced, trained, and dedicated local staff are on-site throughout your entire program to ensure you have the support you need during your abroad adventure.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore Santiago before classes start to help you feel at home in your new environment.
Prepare to Learn
Feel prepared to begin classes with practical lessons, activities designed to help you learn your way around the area, and support from our dedicated student staff.

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Program Dates

January Term 2025

Program Dates:

Early January - Late January

Application Deadline:

Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age 
  • In good standing at your home school 
  • 2.5 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • No previous Spanish language study required 

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
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The Student Experience

How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

Apply Now
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