Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM) Global Health Programs

TUSM Commitment to Global Health

Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM) views global health education as an important component of its educational mission. Tufts faculty and graduates are engaged in collaborations in research, education, and training with colleagues in several countries around the world and serve as advisors and mentors for students planning global health experiences. Participation in field experiences is a key component of our approach to global health education. Together with our international partners, we prepare our graduates to be part of a growing number of health professionals equipped with the skills needed for clinical, research, and public health careers with an increasing global health dimension.

Opportunities for Student Global Health Experiences

All students are invited to apply for a global health experience during their time at Tufts University School of Medicine. Opportunities for short-term programs are available to MD, MPH, MD/MPH, MD/PhD, MS/MPH, BA/MPH, DVM/MPH, PA/MPH and other dual degree MPH students.

Tufts University School of Medicine offers opportunities for MD or MD/MPH students to gain exposure to global health in international settings through clinical observerships, community outreach, or research projects during the summer period between years one and two; to MD/MPH, MPH or other dual degree students engaged in the Applied Practice Experience (APE) or Integrative Learning Experience (ILE) during the summer period; and to 4th-year MD, MD/MPH, or MD/PhD students who would like to complete a clinical elective abroad during the spring semester. Dr. Maple Goh is the overall global health liaison for MPH or MPH dual degree students and can connect students interested in global health with appropriate Tufts faculty advisors and advise them through the global health application process. Dr. Maple Goh is also the APE instructor for MD/MPH students. Dr. Jeffrey Griffiths is the ILE instructor for MD/MPH students. Dr. Meera Gatlin is the APE instructor for DVM/MPH students. Dr. Jonathon Gass is the ILE instructor for DVM/MPH students. For all MPH and other dual degree students, their STEP instructors are their APE or ILE advisors. All MPH and dual degree students should discuss specific project details with their preceptors at the international site and their APE/ILE instructors.

For students who want to conduct research or project-based work in a global setting, please keep in mind that such engagements require at least a few months of advanced planning and discussions with in-country colleagues and mentors to ensure that your work aligns with needs in these settings in a manner that may benefit local service delivery or populations.

Students may choose among Tufts University School of Medicine-sponsored or independent global health programs. TUSM-sponsored programs include the University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana; the Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, India and the Universidad de Panamá, Panama City, Panama. Tufts University School of Medicine has long-standing collaborations and partnerships in medical education and research with these institutions.  Students are encouraged to participate in global health experiences in these programs. However, they may also choose from independent programs in a number of different countries, provided they meet the required criteria. Many independent programs are associated with current or former Tufts faculty. Students are encouraged to participate in global health experiences in these programs.