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Palm-lined Loboc River winding through tropical forest in Bohol, Philippines.

Spring Field Study: Philippines - Global Citizenship

Philippines: Global Citizenship

Spend your spring break exploring one of Asia's most distinctive countries. This faculty-led field study takes Rollins students from cosmopolitan Manila to the islands of Cebu and Bohol for a short-term study abroad experience in global citizenship. Shaped by Spanish colonization and American influence while keeping its Asian roots, the Philippines is working to close its wealth gap, restore its environment, and advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. You'll meet the students, community leaders, and organizations driving that work—and come home seeing the connections between the Philippines and the United States in a whole new way.

Program Highlights

Learn More

Itinerary Highlights

  • Connect With Students in Manila

    Start in Manila, where Spanish colonial history meets a fast-moving modern city. Trade perspectives with students at the University of the Philippines, take a walking tour of Binondo, one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world, and hear from organizations leading development and conservation work across the country.

  • Spend a Day of Service in Cebu

    Join a local nonprofit for a day of hands-on community service. You'll work alongside families and staff, help prepare meals, spend time with local children, and see how grassroots organizations tackle poverty and inequality on the ground.

  • Cruise the Loboc River in Bohol

    Float down the jungle-lined Loboc River and get up close with the Philippine tarsier, one of the smallest primates in the world. It's a chance to experience the country's natural beauty—and to learn what it takes to protect it.

Headshot of Mary Choi Robinson

Meet Your Program Leader: Mary Choi Robinson

“I'm inspired to broaden student perceptions and understanding of Asia and Asian cultures beyond the more generally known East Asian countries and cultures, and to help students discover the connections between the Philippines and the US.” — Mary Choi Robinson

Mary Choi Robinson serves as Associate Director of International Programs and an adjunct professor at Rollins. She has taught Global Citizenship and RCC 100, and currently teaches Asian American Identity Through Representation, an RFLA 300 course.

An experienced field study leader, she has taken Rollins students to Trinidad and Tobago and to the Philippines. On this program, she guides students to examine their own identities alongside Filipino culture, history, and values—and to understand how the Philippines is tackling global challenges.

Education: ’12MLS

Why Study Abroad in the Philippines?

See Global Citizenship in Action

The Philippines is actively working on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, from ending poverty and expanding quality education to clean energy, decent work, and reduced inequality. You'll see how local organizations and communities are driving that progress.

Discover Asia Beyond the Familiar

Explore a culture shaped by Asian roots, Spanish colonization, and a long US presence. You'll trace the lasting effects of that history, build intercultural communication skills, and uncover surprising connections between the Philippines, Spain, and the United States.

Make the Most of Spring Break

Field studies are designed to maximize learning during short-term breaks—no semester commitment required. Earn credit while gaining international field experience that stands out on your resume and in future interviews.

Financial Support Is Available

Partial need-based scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,500 are available to help offset costs. Apply directly through your program application.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Rollins field study?

Field studies are short-term, faculty-led study abroad programs typically held during spring break, winter break, or summer. They combine academic coursework with immersive, in-country experiences and are open to eligible Rollins students.

How much does the Philippines: Global Citizenship field study cost?

Field study costs vary by destination, length, and number of credits. Total out-of-pocket costs for Rollins field studies typically range from $3,500 to $6,000, including the program fee and any additional expenses. Partial need-based scholarships of $500–$2,500 are available to help offset costs. For exact pricing for this program, visit the Philippines: Global Citizenship Field Study program details on Via TRM.

What does the program fee include?

The Philippines: Global Citizenship field study fee covers round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations throughout the program, local transportation, excursions, some meals, tuition, administrative fees, international medical insurance, on-site staff support, and pre-departure advising. See the full list of inclusions on Via TRM.

What students should consider this field study?

This field study is a strong fit for students in Asian Studies, International Relations, Social Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability Studies—and for anyone curious about Asia beyond its best-known countries or how global issues play out in local communities. There are no course prerequisites, and the program meets the SE Immersion and Global Experience requirements. Applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.0, good academic and College standing, and an interview with the program leader. Be ready for lots of walking on uneven ground, extreme heat and humidity, and some on-site travel that can cause motion sickness. Review full eligibility on Via TRM.

When does this field study take place?

The Philippines: Global Citizenship field study takes place over spring break in March and runs about one week. Students also attend pre-trip and post-trip meetings on campus. For exact travel dates and application deadlines, visit the program details on Via TRM.

Boat cruises along a lush, palm-lined tropical river.

Ready to Apply?

Explore global citizenship in action through community engagement in the Philippines. Apply on Via TRM to join this field study.

Apply on Via TRM