The UF in Panama program is a 8-day immersive program designed to help students develop both personally and professionally. This experiential journey combines cultural exploration and career readiness activities with a focus on empowering first-generation students and building their social capital.
The program will draw lessons from one of the wonders of the modern world, the Panama Canal. Students will learn about the canal from multiple perspectives relevant to each college, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of complex global problems. The program also seeks to empower students to explore potential career pathways by offering direct exposure to employers and companies in Panama.
Information Session
Thursday, August 28, 2025, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Farrior Hall 2000 or Zoom
Come find out about the new UF in Panama: Exploring the Canal Across Disciplines study abroad program. From January 3-10, 2026 we will spend the week learning about global careers and the Panama Canal. This program especially welcomes applications from first-generation and first-year students, but all students are welcome to apply. This information session will also offer support for applying for passports, so even if you have attended a previous information session you are welcome to join us.
Program application deadline: September 15, 2025
Can’t come in-person? Join us on Zoom
Application Deadline
September 15, 2025
Application Process
You should complete the program application on the International Center’s website by the published deadline. The application includes getting an academic advising form signed by the program director. CLAS students may schedule an appointment with Christine Richmond to get all sections of the form signed. You must also pay a $395 deposit. Application to the program is not guaranteed acceptance. Priority will be given to first-generation students.
Program Dates
January 3-10, 2026
Academics
IDS 4956 – UF in Panama (1 UF credit)
Eligibility
- Open to all majors.
- 2.5 GPA.
- Students in good standing.
Estimated Program Fee
Student Program Fee: $2,862
Program cost includes:
- Tuition for 1 credit.
- Housing (shared rooms in hotel).
- Academic and cultural excursions.
- In-country transportation.
- Breakfasts (hotel).
- Two dinners.
- 24/7 onsite support.
- International health insurance and emergency medical assistance.
Not included:
- International, round-trip airfare.
- Airport transfers.
- Additional personal travel and personal expenses.
Housing
Students will be housed in a local hotel in shared rooms.
Activities
This program includes multiple cultural excursions in Panama City as well as multiple company and organization site visits. The final itinerary is to be determined, but planned visits include: Miraflores Locks, Museo Canal, Metropolitan Natural Park, San Blas Islands, the Panama National Museum and a City Tour.
Pre-Departure Information
Once your application is approved you will receive more information on the next steps. We will offer multiple pre-departure sessions before you go as well as on-site orientations once you arrive in Panama. We will also visit the Panama Canal Collection at UF prior to the trip.
Withdrawal Policy (subject to change)
Please see the UF International Center’s policies on cancellation and withdrawal. You are responsible for knowing payment and withdraw deadlines.
Contact Information
CLAS Program Director
Christine Richmond
richmoc@ufl.edu