MSW: Care Futures in Ecopolitical Crisis: Anti-Oppressive and Anti-Colonial Practices in Guatemala 2026

Jun 28 - Jul 11, 2026

This course provides an opportunity for students to explore concepts of anti-oppressive and anti-colonial practice by learning from care workers across Guatemala. The course is an exploration of the possibilities of future care work in the context of the unfolding ecopolitical global crisis. This course aims to encourage student critical reflection on the professionalized caring practices in which they are embedded as future professionals in social work, alongside the diverse and manifold caring practices that exist in more-than-professional circumstances,  including schools, community development work, religious and spiritual institutions, cooperative economic organizations, and environmental activism. Students will be asked to compare practices and systems of care (professionalized and otherwise) between Guatemala and the U.S., developing discernment around local, contextual factors and the impacts of global capitalism and continuation of imperialism and colonization.

We will learn from those involved in diverse caring practices in Guatemala, rooted in the longstanding relationships of Augsburg's study away programs, to develop new understandings of caring practices and to invite student reflection on these experiences to integrate diverse caring practices into their conceptualizations of professional and non-professional caring work at home. In Guatemala, Augsburg students will meet with social workers, community activists, Indigenous leaders, and other care workers. Course participants will meet prior to our departure for an orientation, in-country for seminars, and post-trip for a debriefing seminar upon return to Augsburg University.

  • Next Steps

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    At Northstar Travel Company, we take pride in our attention to detail and seamless planning process. Here’s how we make your travel experience stress-free:

    1. Complete the Intake Form: Start by filling out our Intake Form. This helps us gather the essential details about your trip and your traveler details. You'll have a spot to leave any loyalty numbers or KTNs as well!
    2. Review Your Itinerary: We'll send you a proposed itinerary within one business day of receiving your forms via email. Please review it carefully and let us know if any adjustments are needed.
    3. Approval & Booking: Once you approve the itinerary, we’ll send an invoice to you (or the designated party). Please note that prices and availability can change until the booking is finalized.
    4. Reach Out Anytime: Have questions? We’re always here to help! The best way to contact us is via email, and we’ll respond during our office hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST.

    Should I Contact Augsburg/CGEE or Northstar Travel Company?

    Augsburg's study abroad programs are wonderful and help students to explore the world, study other cultures, network, and learn simultaneously. We do not handle the program on the ground or the specifics of your university account or billing. If you have any questions regarding the logistics once you arrive or about your student account - please direct them to the proper faculty member with your AU/CGEE program. We are here to help with your travel arrangements to and from the destination.

  • Travel Documents: What you should know before you travel

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    Travel comes with many requirements, and staying informed is key to a smooth experience. While we can’t provide legal advice regarding immigration and customs, we’re happy to point you in the right direction.

    Here are a few general tips:

    • Passport Validity: Most destinations require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return date. Double-check your passport’s expiration date before booking to avoid issues.
    • Country-Specific Requirements: Each country has its own rules and restrictions. To ensure you’re prepared, we recommend visiting the U.S. Department of State Travel website. This resource provides:
      • Travel alerts and advisories.
      • Information on local laws and customs.
      • Guidance for specific communities, including LGBT+ travelers.

    You can visit the US Department of State Website via this link.

    Taking these steps ahead of time can save you stress and help you enjoy your journey with confidence!

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Your Advisor

Andrew Hallfrisch

Northstar Travel Company

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andrew@northstartravelco.com

(651) 300-1541