Child Family Health International (CFHI) partners with UC San Diego to offer ethical and sustainable global health field experiences. CFHI programs are UC San Diego–approved and can help fulfill the 100-hour Global Health Field Experience Requirement for Global Health Majors.

About the organization: CFHI is a United Nations–recognized nonprofit that offers immersive, community-based Global Health Education Programs for students and emerging professionals. CFHI’s unique model emphasizes reciprocal partnerships with local health professionals and organizations, encouraging participants to grow in their understanding of health, culture, and global citizenship. Programs are currently offered in 10 countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, India, Mexico, South Africa, Uganda, Ghana, and the Philippines). As a CFHI participant, you will observe local healthcare delivery, learn from experienced medical and public health professionals, and explore key global health topics through clinical shadowing and public health activities. CFHI programs help students explore health in diverse settings, build real-world skills like cultural humility and communication, and strengthen their foundation for future academic and professional success.

Why Choose CFHI?

CFHI’s programs are tailored to undergraduate and pre-health students seeking a transformative experience in global health. By participating, you’ll:

  • Engage with diverse healthcare systems and global realities.
  • Build Real-World Skills like communication, adaptability, and cultural competence
  • Enhance Your Career Prospects: Stand out in applications with practical experience

Through CFHI programs, undergraduate students gain a range of competencies essential for academic and professional growth:

Cultural Humility

Understand and respect the values, practices, and perspectives of diverse populations.

Interpersonal Communication

Improve your ability to connect with people from all walks of life, including patients, peers, and mentors.

Problem-Solving Skills

Learn to address challenges with creativity and critical thinking in real-world settings.

Health Systems Knowledge

Explore how global healthcare systems function, including the social determinants of health.

Ethical Leadership

Cultivate the skills needed to navigate complex ethical situations in international education and health.

Personal Growth

Build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose through immersive global experiences.

Find your CFHI Opportunity

CFHI offers in-person and online programs, electives, rotations, practicums, and field experiences to undergraduate and graduate-level trainees, as well as academic partners.

Not sure which program is the best fit or have general questions?

We’re here to help! Connect with a member of our team at open office hours held most Fridays from 10 AM – 11 AM Pacific Time. Click the button to register.

Are you ready to Let the World Change You?

How To Apply

A. Create an Account
1. Go to www.cfhi.org
2. Click on “Apply Now” in the top right corner.
3. Create an account and fill out the required personal information.
4. From the drop-down menus, select your program, start date and duration.
5. Fill out the security CAPTCHA and click the “Continue” button to proceed.
6. An automatic reply will generate, prompting you to check your email. After following the activation link sent to your email, you will be able to login to your account to complete the remainder of the program registration.
B. Complete Application – Stage 1
1. Once logged into your CFHI account, click your “Profile” in the right hand corner then select “User Portal” from the drop-down menu to access your program dashboard.
2. Click on your program application to proceed and follow the steps outlined on the timeline.
3. Fill out the recommender form.
4. Complete the CFHI Application Form.
5. Once the form has been completed, CFHI will review the information provided and process your registration within 2-3 working days.
C. Required Information and Forms – Stages 2 and 3
After receiving a confirmation email, return to the CFHI website and log into your account. After logging in, you will see several tabs to guide you through your program requirements.
CFHI Team Members are available to provide support as you plan for your global health program. Please email [email protected] with any questions!

Scholarship Opportunities

Learn more about CFHI Scholarship Opportunities here: www.cfhi.org/scholarships

Frequently Asked Questions

Be sure to visit our FAQ page here!: https://www.cfhi.org/faq/