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Jamaica Cross-Cultural Course (Outgoing Program) Featured:

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  • Locations: Ocho Rios, Jamaica
  • Program Terms: May Term
  • Restrictions: MU applicants only
  • Dates / Deadlines
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
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Program Description:

JamaicaJamaica Cross-Cultural Course May 2026

Course Description: This cross-cultural course provides students with an in-depth, immersive experience and examination of Jamaican culture. The course includes readings, seminars/lectures, guest speakers, homestays, plentiful interaction with the Jamaican people, and visits to major cultural sites at various parts of the island nation including Kingston, Mandeville, Negril, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay. Among other educational experiences, students will learn about history, government, industry, religion, education, geography, Christian ministries, and the patois language. As a part of the cross-cultural experience, each student will observe and reflect on an aspect of Jamaican culture that relates to his or her major area of study. Finally, the course fulfills Messiah University’s ELI requirements, including personal goals and reflection.

Estimated Course Fee: $4,200

Faculty Biographies:
Dr. Paul Johns serves the university in the Human Development and Family Science Department.  He teaches about interpersonal and family relationship dynamics, incorporating his rich experience as a marriage and family therapist and family life educator.  He co-led the Jamaican cross-cultural in 2012, 2022, and 2024 and is thrilled to do it again in 2026 for students. 
activities with children
Neville Tomlinson was born and raised in Jamaica and will act as primary cultural expert.  He is a professional counselor and family therapist living and working in Allentown, PA.  He is also the vice president of the board of directors for Teams for Medical Missions, which has a campus in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.  Neville and Paul led the Jamaica cross-cultural together in May of 2012, 2022, and 2024. .

If you have questions, feel free to contact Dr. Johns at pjohns@messiah.edu or (717) 766-2511 ext. 2603


Other information:
Jamaica May 2026 - Know Before You Go.pdf
Jamaica May 2026 - Syllabus Draft.pdf
Hiking in Jamaica

Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
May Term 2026 05/15/2025 12/15/2025 TBA TBA