Study Away
Nutrition and Food Environment of the American Southwest
Explore El Paso, Santa Fe and Sedona through field-based learning in food, nutrition, and health.
Overview
Spring 2027 Semester I Online course + 8-Day Travel Experience
Online course: January 19 – April 11
Field Trip: March 13 – 20
3 Credit Hours
Locations: El Paso, Santa Fe, Sedona and sites along the way.
What You’ll Experience
Farm and ranch visits
Community engagement
Real-world nutrition learning
Regional food environment exploration
FAQs
What is this course?
A 3-credit study away course that combines online learning with an 8-day travel experience across the Southwest, focusing on food environments and nutrition.
Where will we go?
- El Paso, TX
- Santa Fe, NM
- Sedona, AZ
- Sites along the way
What will we do?
- Visit farms, ranches, and food businesses
- Explore regional food environments
- Apply nutrition concepts in real-world settings
- Learn from local producers and community leaders
How does this relate to nutrition?
You’ll learn how food environments and access impact dietary behaviors and community health—bringing classroom concepts to life.
How many credits is it?
3 academic credit hours.
When does it take place?
Spring 2027 semester, January 19 – April 11
- Pre and post-travel online coursework
- 8-day travel experience (March 13-20)
How much does it cost?
Please note that cost of participation varies depending on the number of participants enrolled.
- Estimated ~$3,500-5500 per student
- $1,000 deposit required to secure your spot
Where does the trip begin and end?
The trip begins in El Paso, TX and ends in Sedona, AZ.
*Students will be transported to the Phoenix (PHX) airport for their flight home.
What does the cost include?
- Lodging
- Transportation during travel
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Program activities and site visits
*Students are responsible for their flights (One-way flight to El Paso, TX on 3/12/27 and One-way flight from Phoenix, AZ on 3/20/27)
Is it safe?
The program is faculty-led, structured, and includes a pre-departure orientation with safety guidelines and support throughout travel.
Will this delay my graduation?
This course has been approved by the TAMU Nutrition Department, consult with your advisor to discuss taking this course as an elective.
Why should I participate in this course?
- Travel with purpose
- Gain hands-on experience
- Build your resume
- Learn beyond the classroom
- Network with professionals
Is this program limited to certain majors?
This course has been approved by the TAMU Nutrition Department as a 3-credit hour elective course and is open to all majors. Non-Nutrition major msut consult with their advisor to discuss taking this course as an elective.
To request a copy of the syllabus, contact Ruby Aguayo at [email protected].
How do I apply or learn more?
Attend an info session or contact: [email protected]
NOTE: Program itinerary and activities are subject to change based on availability. Equivalent learning experiences will always be provided.
