Annual Study Abroad Program in Panama

Explore. Engage. Empower.

Expand Your Horizons in Panama!

19th Annual Study Abroad Program in Panama

May 5 - May 25, 2025

Experience Panama’s vibrant culture and history through this immersive study abroad program. Sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, Diversity Office, Latin American and Latino Studies Program, the Department of Political Science, and the Department of Communication, this program offers students the unique opportunity to earn academic credit while exploring one of Latin America’s most dynamic countries.

📹 Watch:

2025 Panama Program Video
Panama “Happy” Video

Program Highlights:

Earn Six Credit Hours:

LALS 313 / ML 551:Panamanian Culture - Required for all participants. (This course satisfies SB-D2 for Cardinal Core)
This course provides students with an overview of Panamanian history and culture and is offered annually through the LALS Study Abroad Program in Panama.
POLS 370 / LALS 321:Latin American Politics - (satisfies SB-D2 for Cardinal Core). An overview of Latin American politics, focusing on nation-building, government evolution, party systems, civil-military relations, and political culture. Examines regional political patterns and why some countries follow or diverge from them.

Pay plan available. Finnancial Assistance. Insurance included.
Cost: $3,750 (includes round-trip airfare, lodging, transportation, and most meals)

Lodging at Torres de Alba Hotel and Suites (Wii-fi, Kitchenettes, Laundry, Breakfast Buffet)
Lodging and breakfast in Western Panama

$500 discount for students providing their own round-trip airfare
Classes held at Quality Leadership Institute in Panama City
Special Features:

Panama Canal Tour – Experience the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal with a visit to the Miraflores Visitor Center, offering interactive exhibits and observation decks.
Historic Casco Viejo and the Presidential Palace – Explore the colonial charm of Casco Viejo, Panama City's historic district, home to cultural landmarks like the Presidential Palace.
Visits to Portobelo and Isla Grande – Discover the rich history of Portobelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and relax on the beautiful beaches of Isla Grande.
Cultural Exchange with the Emberá Indigenous Community in the Gamboa Rainforest – Engage with the Emberá Indigenous community to learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life in the lush Gamboa Rainforest.
Service Project at Aldeas Infantiles SOS Orphanage – Make a meaningful impact by volunteering at Aldeas Infantiles SOS, supporting orphaned and vulnerable children in Panama.
Excursions to Bocas del Toro and Boquete – Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bocas del Toro's islands and explore the scenic highlands of Boquete, famous for its coffee farms and natural beauty.

Important Dates:

Application Deadline: February 27 priority deadline, rolling deadline through April 3
Pre-Departure Orientation: March 1, 2025 | 3:00–4:30 PM | Strickler Hall 107
Mandatory Pre-Trip Classes: TBA

Program Information:

Passports: A valid passport is required. Apply early! UofL students can apply for a passport at:

📍 UofL International Center Passport Office
International Center, Room 205 | 📞 (502) 852-6604

Important Reminder: Passport applications should be submitted 4–6 weeks in advance. By the Orientation, students should have already applied or received their passport.

Terra Dotta Profile: All participants must create a profile in Terra Dotta, UofL’s online system for study abroad programs. Create your profile here.

Course Registration:

All students are automatically enrolled in:
- LALS 313 / ML 551:Panamanian Culture
- One elective: POLS 370 / LALS 321

Payment Plan:

Total Program Fee: $3,750 (billed through the Bursar’s Office)
Payment plans are available. Contact the Bursar’s Office for details.
Full payment is required before departure.

Scholarship Opportunities:

Required Items (Submit ASAP):

Photocopy of your current passport
Health clearance form (No immunizations required; flu and tetanus shots recommended)

📍 Submit your documents on the Terra Dotta portal

📞 Campus Health Services: 215 Central Avenue, Ste. 110 | Louisville, KY 40208 | (502) 852-6479

Useful Links:

Contacts:

Dr. Tricia Gray
Department of Political Science
Ford Hall
📧 tricia.gray@louisville.edu | 📞 (502) 852-3309

Karen Battoe
Department of Communication
309B Strickler Hall
📧 karen.battoe@louisville.edu | 📞 (502) 852-6976

Quality Leadership University (QLU)
C. 45 Este 4-160
Ciudad Panamá, Panamá
📞 +507 264-0777

Latin American and Latino Studies