Jamaica
Program Dates: November 1-8, 2025
About / Important Dates / Courses / Program Costs / Itinerary /
Tailored for occupational therapy students in the MHS program, the Jamaica Study Abroad program offers the chance to join a prestigious program delivering therapeutic services to residents of Mustard Seed Communities in Jamaica. Students will gain hands-on experience while immersing themselves in Jamaican culture and health services. Set against the backdrop of beautiful beaches, this opportunity also fulfills a Level 1 Fieldwork requirement.
Program Eligibility: Must be enrolled in the Occupational Therapy program (not open to undergraduate students).
International Travel & Health Information
Important Dates
Application Deposit Deadline: $200
- 07/03/2025
1st Payment Deadline: $1,325
- 07/16/2025
2nd Payment Deadline: $1,325
- 08/08/2025
SAO Orientation (mandatory)
- TBD
Program Cost
Program Fee
- Transportation
- Lodging & Some Meals
- Mandatory Excursions
- Basic Insurance
Airfare
- Purchased Individually
- Students must attend a mandatory workshop before purchasing flights
Not included: , some meals, optional excursions, and spending money.
Course Offered
OTHP 6001 - International Fieldwork I, OTHP 7009 - International Fieldwork II
Program Leaders: Sharon Swift and Dr. Pam Kearney
Itinerary may be subject to change
01
Nov.Day One
Students will arrive in Kingston in the evening and travel to their home base at Jacob’s Ladder (JL), a residential facility in Moneague. After a late dinner and a brief orientation, the group will settle in for rest ahead of the week’s impactful service learning and cultural immersion.02
Nov.Day Two
The day begins with a community breakfast prepared by the students, followed by Mass in the JL chapel, where students are invited to celebrate alongside residents and staff. After an in-depth orientation and a tour of JL’s expansive campus, the group will travel to Jerusalem (Jer) in Spanish Town to tour its network of care facilities and engage in initial activities with residents. In the evening, students return to JL for a game of bingo with residents, a shared dinner, and an evening debrief to reflect on the day’s experiences.03
Nov.Day Three
After breakfast at JL, students head to Jer for morning prayer and a team meeting with the site’s therapy coordinator. The day includes a mix of therapeutic engagement and activities with residents, including an off-site grocery store outing and meal support during lunch. Upon return to JL, students lead a baking activity with residents in the Care Plus area before concluding the evening with dinner and a group reflection.04
Nov.Day Four
Students divide into small groups to engage in direct care, therapeutic interaction, and cooking activities with residents. After assisting with lunch and afternoon care, students return briefly to JL before heading out to enjoy a group dinner at the popular local restaurant, Scotchies, in Ocho Rios. The evening concludes with optional group discussion time back at JL.05
Nov.Day Five
A highlight of the trip, students accompany Jer residents and staff to Fort Clarence Beach for a full day of sun, community, and care. Meals are provided on-site as the group enjoys a relaxed and joyful atmosphere by the sea. That evening, students participate in an art and craft session (with optional games) back at JL, followed by dinner and group reflection.06
Nov.Day Six
The day begins with a community breakfast prepared by the students, followed by Mass in the JL chapel, where students are invited to celebrate alongside residents and staff. After an in-depth orientation and a tour of JL’s expansive campus, the group will travel to Jerusalem (Jer) in Spanish Town to tour its network of care facilities and engage in initial activities with residents. In the evening, students return to JL for a game of bingo with residents, a shared dinner, and an evening debrief to reflect on the day’s experiences.07
Nov.Day Seven
After breakfast at JL, students head to Jer for morning prayer and a team meeting with the site’s therapy coordinator. The day includes a mix of therapeutic engagement and activities with residents, including an off-site grocery store outing and meal support during lunch. Upon return to JL, students lead a baking activity with residents in the Care Plus area before concluding the evening with dinner and a group reflection.08
Nov.