Occupational Therapy

Students in Ireland — Community Tour in Ireland

Overlook of a lake — Cuicocha Lake, Ecuador

Woman riding a horse — Rucu Pichincha from Cruz Loma, Ecuador

Group of people in front of University of Ulster — Visit to Ulster University in Ireland

2 women riding swings — TeleferiQo in Quito, Ecuador

Study Abroad

Ireland Ecuador

Study Abroad

Study abroad experiences provide students with invaluable opportunities to expand their understanding of diverse cultures, occupations, and belief systems, fostering their growth as culturally responsive and globally competent practitioners.

Currently, the department offers two faculty-led study abroad programs: Ireland during Spring Break and Ecuador between the end of Summer II and the start of the Fall semester. Either program can be used to fulfill the 3-credit OT elective requirement for students in the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program. Students in the Sammons Rider Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Bachelor's program are also eligible to participate in these study abroad opportunities, though have no elective requirements. Additionally, these experiences may count toward other university requirements, such as the WES Level II World Language and Culture requirement and the Diversity and Inclusion requirement for students studying outside of the OT department

Ireland

Program Overview

Recognized as the longest running faculty-led study abroad program at Western Michigan University, Dr. Maureen Mickus, professor, Department of Occupational Therapy has offered this opportunity since 2008. Over 400 WMU students have traveled to Ireland and Northern Ireland gaining hands-on experience with progressive approaches to healthcare and social support involving diverse populations. Open to both undergraduate and graduates, participants are from diverse backgrounds, including occupational therapy, social work, nursing, counseling psychology, exercise science, business and engineering. Students gain insights into Ireland and Northern Ireland healthcare systems, engage with community organizations, and learn about inclusive practices in areas like elder care, and disability support.

Key organizations include:

Moorehall Lodge
North Belfast Men’s Shed
St. James Hospital
Bridgeview Special Needs School
Dundalk Institute of Technology
Cloghan Adult Day Centre
Guide Dogs UK
Kilcreggan Homes
Ulster University

Through site visits, lectures, and cultural immersion, participants develop a deeper understanding of Ireland’s strategies for delivering compassionate, person-centered care and addressing the unique needs of its communities. While abroad students also participate in outings such as visits to stunning landscapes, castles, natural scenic sites, and walking tours. These experiences strengthen students' understanding of national identity and cultural pride of the Irish people.

Key Quotes

"This trip was lifechanging for me. I was able to leave the country for the first time, learn more about the world and meet so many new people. Learning how to communicate more efficiently and with individuals from other cultures are skills that I will be able to use in my future career and life."

"The most beneficial aspect of this program is the variety of experiences we had. We had the opportunity to interact with individuals in the community as well as in facilities, schools and hospitals strengthening our ability to relate to others with different backgrounds."

Dates

This study abroad experience typically takes place during Spring Break

Faculty Leader

Maureen Mickus, PhD

Apply

Click here to learn more details about this study-abroad opportunity and apply.

Giant's Causeway Nature Preserve in Northern Ireland

Young woman dancing with older man — Enjoying Cultural Immersion Experiences

Students sitting in front of a screen that reads "Occupational Therapy" — Learning about the Role of Occupational Therapy in Ireland's Health Systems

Group of students holding a Western Michigan University flag in Ireland — Representing WMU in Ireland

4 students standing in front of a run down castle — Enjoying the Castle Viewing Excursion

Ecuador

Program Overview

Embark on a transformative study abroad experience in Quito, Ecuador, where you'll engage in service learning while building cultural humility and professional reasoning skills in pediatric and adult outpatient rehabilitation. This program offers clinical observation and hands-on experience at a local foundation dedicated to providing comprehensive rehabilitative care to individuals with neurological dysfunction. Outside the clinic, you'll explore Quito's rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural landscapes, from the vibrant city streets to the awe-inspiring Andes. Join us to grow both personally and professionally while making a meaningful difference in a stunning and diverse environment.

Students will gain skills in cultural humility, clinical experience, intra and interprofessional collaboration, professional and personal growth, public health insight, and Spanish language development by participating in service learning at a local foundation and engaging in cultural, historical and nature-based.