Elaine Marieb College of Nursing Announces New Winter Study Abroad Program in Athens, Greece

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The Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, in collaboration with the UMass Office of Global Affairs, has announced a new faculty‑led study abroad program, Food, Culture and Health in Athens, for undergraduate students during Winter Session 2027 (Jan. 5–Jan. 23, 2027). 

• Learn more and apply

UMass Nursing students enrolled in the three‑week program will take "Topics in Cross Cultural Health Care," a four-credit course taught by Clinical Associate Professor Ann Becker, RN, DNP, PHNL. The program combines classroom instruction with immersive, experiential learning that explores connections among food, culture, health, and sustainability through the Mediterranean lifestyle.

"What distinguishes this program is the integration of interactive excursions throughout the curriculum. This is a learning journey that aims to transform how students understand health through comparisons of health systems, cultural and environmental explorations and lived experiences." 

—Ann Becker, clinical associate professor

Participants will attend expert‑led guest lectures, visit clinical and industry sites such as the Hellenic Red Cross and the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and engage in hands‑on activities including a traditional Greek cooking class, market visits, and a regional dance session. 

"The program goes beyond textbook knowledge to examine how ancient wisdom and contemporary practices shape health outcomes across generations," Becker explains.

Cultural and academic excursions include the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, a day trip to Nafplio, a visit to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, and a dip in the mineral‑rich waters of Lake Vouliagmeni. Students will stay at Hotel Titania in central Athens; the program fee includes shared hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, and an unlimited local transportation pass. 

Becker, who has led study abroad programs for UMass Nursing students for several years now, adds that the Mediterranean climate in January is "absolutely beautiful—you'll enjoy significantly more pleasant weather than you'd experience back in Amherst!"

Quick facts

• Program: Food, Culture and Health in Athens (faculty‑led)
• Dates: Jan. 5–Jan. 23, 2027 (three weeks)
• Credits: 4
• Course: Topics in Cross Cultural Health Care (taught by Ann Becker)
• Eligibility: Sophomore or higher undergraduate status in the ABSN or B.S. in Nursing program, or graduate status in good academic standing by winter session 2027
• Cost: $5,250–$5,765 (scholarships available!)
• Housing: Hotel Titania (shared rooms, breakfast included)
• In‑country partner: Academic Programs International (API)
• Application deadline: Sept. 21, 2026. Learn more and apply!