Study abroad with Penn State—in Jamaica
Inside the Green Grotto
As a student in this embedded course, Social Media Management and Analytics in Jamaica, you will be introduced to social and digital media-related topics that hinge on understanding socio-cultural experiences outside of the United States, specifically on the small Caribbean island nation of Jamaica.
You will learn, through classroom study, that Jamaica has an influential global presence, but it sits squarely in the digital divide with only about half the population connected to the internet and even fewer connected to social media. You will explore Jamaicans’ willingness and ability to participate effectively in the digital economy despite the financial and social boundaries they may encounter, including those of vulnerable populations. You will also study the genesis of digital marketing campaigns such as I Live Where You Vacation and We Eat What We Grow, as well as marketing opportunities targeting the large Caribbean diaspora in mid-Atlantic region of the United States.
Dunn’s river falls
During fall break, you will travel with faculty and students to Jamaica for an immersive cultural experience driven by the country’s immigrant heritage and multiracial society. Jamaica’s lush tropical landscape provides an unforgettable setting to explore and meet native and indigenous peoples.
While abroad, you will spend hours climbing Dunn’s River Falls and swimming in the Green Grotto Caves, followed by a visit to the capital city of Kingston, a 330-year-old city bursting with important heritage sites and attractions and the birthplace of reggae music. There, tours of the University of Technology and a local school will provide you with newfound sense of fundamental formative experiences outside of the United States.
Travel Itinerary (subject to change)
Rose hall greenhouse
- Day 1 Arrive at Donald Sangster International (Montego Bay)
- Day 2 Rose Hall, Iron Shore and Trelawny
- Tour Rose Hall and Appleton Estate
- Day 3 Trelawny and Runaway Bay
- Tour Maroon Town and Green Grotto Caves
- Day 4 Runaway Bay
- Visit Dunn’s River Falls
- Drive into Kingston
- Day 5 Kingston
- Visit University of Technology, Jamaica School of Computing and Information Technology
- Bob Marley Museum Tour
- Devon House Tour and Dinner
- Day 6 Kingston and Port Royal
- Visit primary/secondary school
- Visit Fort Charles
- Pantomime and Local Play
- Day 7 Port Royal
- Relax and Shop
- Day 8 Depart for Philadelphia
Fort Charles
Expenses
International program costs, estimated at $2,800–$3,600 (subject to change), will be applied to your bursar account upon enrollment in the course, and are charged in addition to tuition paid. Grants and scholarship monies may be retroactively available through Penn State. Underwriting for each program is provided by Penn State Abington to maximize opportunities for our students to study abroad. Program costs include round-trip airfare, local ground transportation, all lodging, and some meals.
Non-U.S. citizens may require a visa in addition to their passport. Non-U.S. citizens should consult their embassy for information and may ask the Office of Global Programs for guidance.
About Embedded Courses
Traditionally, “study abroad” meant that students spent a semester in another country and attended classes at an accredited university. Short-term, faculty-led courses with an international travel component are viable alternatives as they offer solid academic international experiences at a reasonable cost with a reduced time commitment.