This study abroad course offers students a unique opportunity to explore how education, culture, and belonging intersect within a dynamic cultural context. Through immersive experiences in two distinct regions of Brazil (Santa Catarina and Bahia), students will engage critically with contemporary social issues, including educational inequality, racial identity, political participation, and cultural heritage.

In Santa Catarina, students will visit local schools such as Colégio Salesiano Itajaí and community organizations like Parque Dom Bosco to learn firsthand about Brazil’s K–12 education system and youth development programs. In Salvador, Bahia, the emphasis will shift to Afro-Brazilian history and culture, with special attention to how organizations like the Steve Biko Institute address racial disparities in education and promote social transformation.

The course blends academic seminars with site visits, community engagement, and reflection, offering students a holistic and place-based understanding of social change. Special emphasis will be placed on the lived experiences of marginalized communities and the role of grassroots movements in shaping a more inclusive society.

Who can participate?

• UMD undergraduate students (first-years, sophomores and juniors) from all majors are welcome to apply.

• You do not need to be in the Honors College to participate in this program.

Save the Date:

• The application will open November 10, 2026.

• Application Deadline: February 17, 2027.

• The program is scheduled to take place in Brazil from May 23 to June 6, 2027. Students should plan to arrive in Brazil on May 24th (by early afternoon) and return on June 5th.

Topics You Will Explore:

• Brazil’s Education System & Youth Development

• Race, Identity, and Afro-Brazilian History

• Environment & Ecosystems

• Education Policy & Social Change

What is included:

• Hotel lodging for the full program (double occupancy)

• All in-country transportation and program excursions

• Daily breakfast + several meals (lunches, dinners, or snacks)

• 3 UMD undergraduate academic credits. This course count towards Understanding Plural Societies (DVUP) diversity requirement at UMD. 

Estimated Program Fee:

• $4227.00 (for a complete list of expenses and total program cost, please visit Cost & Affordability).

Scholarship:

Make sure to review the process for the Gillman Scholarship. Even if you do not receive the full amount, you are guaranteed $500.00.  (If you apply for the Gilman and work with NSO, we’ll guarantee you at least $500—no matter the outcome. More information about the Gilman Guarantee here.)