May 2026 - 8 Week
Program DateMay 21, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026
Application DeadlineJan 01, 2026
Cost$7,550
Credits4 - 6
Overview
Gain hands-on experience in global healthcare in Hanoi, Vietnam’s dynamic capital city, while interning at one of the country’s leading medical institutions. This program combines clinical observation with professional mentorship, offering a unique opportunity to explore patient care and medical practice.
Program Details
Set against the backdrop of Hanoi’s bustling streets and historic charm, this internship places you inside a major Vietnamese hospital where you’ll observe clinical procedures, interact with patients, and learn from healthcare professionals across a variety of departments. Guided by a department supervisor, you’ll gain practical exposure to hospital operations while developing cross-cultural communication skills that extend far beyond the classroom. To help you adapt to your new setting, your first two weeks will include daily lessons, such as learning helpful phrases in Vietnamese, so you can better connect with patients and fellow staff.
You'll also be paired with a local university student through our buddy program. These students have an interest in cross-cultural communication and are excited to show you the best Vietnam has to offer. During your program, they'll help you navigate Vietnam's work culture and everyday life.
From the moment you land to the day you leave, our team is here for you. You’ll be greeted at the airport and supported by our experienced on-site staff throughout your stay. Whether you need help navigating life abroad or just want local recommendations, we’re here to ensure your experience is safe, supported, and unforgettable.
We’ll help you make the most of your time abroad with immersive excursions and interactive activities throughout your program. We’ll also host an in-depth orientation when you arrive to help you navigate the city, work culture, and your new home – all included in your program. Outside of the hospital, immerse yourself in the spirit of Hanoi and its surrounding landscapes through hands-on cultural activities, including a Vietnamese cooking class, guided tours, and a trip to Vietnam's peaceful countryside.
Eligibility Requirements: You must be a current university student or a recent university graduate in good academic standing with a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher. All applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
Dates & Fees
June 2026 - 8 Week
Program DateJun 04, 2026 - Aug 02, 2026
Application DeadlineJan 15, 2026
Cost$7,550
Credits4 - 6
What's Included
Your program fee covers all the essentials, so you can focus on your experience. You’ll be responsible for your flights, meals, books, personal spending, travel insurance, and your international cell phone plan. Don’t worry—we’ve got a budgeting worksheet to help you plan ahead!
Internship Placement
Cultural Activities & Excursions
Housing & Internet
Local Team Support
Airport Reception
In-Country Orientation
International Insurance
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Mental Health Support
Career Resources
International Internship Course
Optional Academic Credit
Placement Opportunities
You’ll intern at one of Vietnam's top surgical centers and medical training hospitals, learning directly from experienced healthcare professionals in departments ranging from cardiothoracic to neurosurgery. You'll shadow local doctors, engage with patients under supervision, and build your skills in a globally respected clinical environment.
You'll intern for approximately 35 - 40 hours per week. During your first two weeks, part of this time commitment will be dedicated to lessons designed to help you connect with your new setting.
If you're interested in shadowing multiple departments, you'll have the option to rotate between assignments up to four times during your program.
Available departments:
- Anesthesia & Surgical Intensive Care Center
- Cardiovascular and Thoracic Center
- Center of Andrology
- Digestive Surgery
- Emergency Abdominal Surgery
- ER and Clinics
- Hepato-Biliary Surgery
- Institute of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery
- Kidney Diseases and Hemodialysis
- Laparoscopic Surgical Center
- Maxillofacial, Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery
- Neurology and Neuro Intensive Care
- Neurosurgery Center
- Neurosurgery I & II
- Oncology
- Organ Transplantation Center
- Orthopedic and Outpatient Clinic
- Pediatric and Neonatal Surgery
- Rectal Surgery Center Perineal
- Rehabilitation
- Septic Surgery
- Spine Surgery
- Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery I, II, III
- Urology
- Voluntary Treatment
Earn Academic Credit
You'll be enrolled in our required International Internship Course, which focuses on the NACE Career Readiness Competencies and intercultural development. This course provides you with a framework to critically reflect on and analyze the transferable skills gained throughout your international internship and supports your self-awareness and personal growth in a cross-cultural context. By the end of your internship, you will be prepared to market your experience in any professional setting.
This online course is asynchronous and begins just before your internship start date. Successful completion of the course will result in a Career Readiness Micro-Credential that can be shared across digital platforms.
If you are interested in or required to earn academic credit for your internship abroad (including for visa purposes), you may explore the following options:
Transfer credit from University of South Florida: We’ve partnered with the University of South Florida (USF) to offer a U.S. transcript for all internship programs, for an additional fee of $375. A USF transcript will be sent to your home institution 2–3 months after the program end date. Letter grade and credit will be awarded based on the successful completion of written academic assignments, completed internship hours, and a supervisor evaluation.
- 8 weeks: 4 credits (minimum of 25 hours per week)
- 8 weeks: 6 credits (minimum of 32 hours per week)
- 12 weeks: 6 credits (minimum of 25 hours per week)
Credit from your home institution: You may work with your home university to receive academic credit for your program. Each academic institution has a unique policy for granting internship credit, thus students should inquire about receiving academic credit with their home university advisors, professors, and/or academic department heads.
If you are earning credit through your home institution, you'll still be expected to participate in the International Internship Course.
Excursions and Activities
Discover more abroad through curated excursions and cultural activities designed to immerse you in the local culture. From guided city tours to hands-on activities and weekend getaways, each experience is intended to help you connect with your host community. You’ll have access to a detailed itinerary in the WorldStrides Connections app prior to your program.
Offerings vary by term; below is a sample of past activities to give you a taste of what’s in store. Optional excursions require an additional fee.
Housing
After you've applied, you'll complete a housing questionnaire that will help us match your preferences with the available options. Housing assignments are on a first-come, first-served basis, so complete this form as soon as you're able! We strive to match your housing preferences as best we can, but requests cannot be guaranteed.
The options listed below are based on single-occupancy. All utilities and internet are included, though you may be charged an additional fee should your consumption exceed the allotted monthly amount. A refundable security deposit may be required for some options.
Health & Safety
Your safety is our top priority – in fact, we've got a team of experts whose full time jobs are taking care of your health and safety while you're abroad. Our skilled health and safety professionals have the resources to effectively respond to any situation where you need support, no matter how large and small.
International Insurance
Your program includes a blanket accident and sickness insurance policy.
24/7 Emergency Support
Easily access local and stateside support in the event of an emergency.
Worldwide Alerts
Our team keeps you, your emergency contact, and your home university in the loop on global events.
Mental Health Support
Get 24/7 access to telehealth and in-person mental health professionals.
Local Support
Our local, English-speaking team will be there to support your while you’re abroad.
Mobile App
Our app puts all of our health and safety resources at your fingertips.