Nordic Healthcare

Health systems around the world: Understanding Nordic health care systems (Sweden and Norway)

Come to Norway and Sweden with us! And discover why the Nordic countries consistently rank among the happiest in the world, with strong health systems and wellness-supporting lifestyles.

The Department of Community and Global Health at the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health is sponsoring a unique opportunity to participate in a 3-credit hour, 10-day study abroad course exploring a universal health care model and culture that support the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

You’ll get an in-depth introduction to the Scandinavian health care system, comparing and contrasting it with the U.S. health system. Visit health care facilities and speak to high-level policymakers and health care providers. We’ll also visit unique cultural attractions that you won’t want to miss.

Time is divided between visits to sites in the field and interactive sessions with local experts. You’ll see and experience the active city life of Oslo, Norway and Gothenburg, Sweden – a glimpse into a contemporary European lifestyle. Join us!

Trip dates and application deadline

Program dates: May 20-31, 2024

Application deadline: February 3, 2024

Apply now

students peace sign in sweden
students out to dinner in sweden
sweden study abroad group

Additional expenses will include:

  • Airfare of approximately $1,500 for roundtrip transportation to Stockholm (students will arrange their own flights).
  • Spending money for meals, excursions, theater tickets, and other incidentals (recommend $500).
  • Study abroad fees of $87 for the international study fee and $33 for insurance.
  • Passport fee of approximately $145.
  • Tuition and related fees to cover the required three-credit hour course (amount will vary based upon residency status and full/part-time status); visit the IU Indianapolis cost estimator to determine how the three additional credits will impact your summer bursar bill.

Please note that travel inside Sweden is exceptionally expensive. Housing and food costs are among the highest in Europe. We try our very best to keep costs as low as possible while maintaining acceptable standards and good value.

Apply for a scholarship now, travel later

IU Indianapolis undergraduate students can apply for a study abroad scholarship and later identify where they want to study. As a degree-seeking undergraduate student within your first year at IU Indianapolis, IU Columbus, or IU Fort Wayne, you may be eligible for the Study Abroad Planning Scholarship of $3,000. Applicants to the scholarships do not need to have already identified a program. This is an opportunity to explore all international options. 

Question and answer sessions

Please join us for a question and answer session and choose the best date that works for you. All sessions are held via Zoom.

Pre-trip planning sessions

There will be a series of pre-travel meetings on campus at IU Indianapolis. More information on the meeting details will be sent to students accepted into the program.

How to apply

Preference will be given to public health undergraduate students; however, graduate students and undergraduate students of other majors are welcome to apply. Here’s what you need to do to secure your spot:

Complete your application