Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: A Cross-cultural Examination of Health and Well-being

Faculty:
Dr. Sara Brito (More Info)

Course:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: A Cross-cultural Examination of Health and Well-being

Program Dates:
May 18, 2025 - June 8, 2025

Honors Credit:
None

WKU Course:
TBA

Discipline(s):
Public Health

Course Description:

Discover Australia through a fresh lens as we dive into the rich cultures and unique perspectives on health and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This course offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for American students to compare their own beliefs with those of Australia’s First Nations peoples. You’ll journey through vibrant urban centers like Melbourne and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of regional Queensland.
Through hands-on experiences—visiting museums, exploring cultural centers, and directly engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people—you’ll gain invaluable insights into the diverse traditions that shape Australia’s health and wellness practices. This immersive learning experience promises to broaden your worldview and challenge how you think about culture, health, and community.


Prerequisites:
Be enrolled in a health science degree (e.g., allied health, psychology, nursing, pre-medicine, public health) and have completed 48 college credit hours or with the consent of the instructor.

Physical Activity Requirements:
Participants should be prepared to walk 3-5 miles on rough or uneven pavement each day, climb multiple sets of stairs, and spend extended time standing. Some days, we will be standing and walking for long periods. While there may be some opportunities for sitting, they may not always be available when navigating museum exhibits or walking from public transport to destinations. These distances may sometimes be up to 5 miles at a time.

Course Highlights:
Coming soon