Dual Degree Innovation for Sustainable Global Futures: Lessons Learned from International Collaboration
1
Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, United States
2
International Office, Universidad del Valle de México, Mexico City, Mexico
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A1016
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Global health challenges demand a new generation of professionals who can think systemically, collaborate across disciplines, and act with global responsibility. Dual degree programs that integrate medical education with global health training provide an innovative framework for preparing future physicians to advance sustainability, equity, and resilience.
METHODS:
The University of Arizona’s Zuckerman College of Public Health (USA) in collaboration with Universidad del Valle de Mexico (Mexico) designed an interprofessional dual degree program in medicine and public health with an emphasis on global health to integrate clinical practice with public health leadership and global collaboration. Detailed review and evaluation of both programs was conducted to assure that learning outcomes and competencies were met in the integrated curriculum.
RESULTS:
Currently, the program has a total of 68 students. The first cohort of students enrolled in 2024 and includes 22 medical students. The 2nd cohort started in 2025 and includes 39 medical students and 7 students from biotechnology for a total of 46 students. Recruitment is ongoing for the 3rd cohort that will be starting in April of 2026. Dual degrees face significant challenges related to language, retention, dropout, and sustained engagement. Therefore, attrition can be higher than in single-degree programs.
CONCLUSIONS:
Innovation is reshaping global health education, expanding access through digital platforms, interdisciplinary curricula, and international collaboration. By intentionally addressing barriers related to language, workload, retention, and engagement, institutions can ensure that these programs are not only academically rigorous but also supportive, equitable, and sustainable. When designed with cultural responsiveness, curricular innovation, and strong institutional collaboration, dual degree programs can produce globally competent physicians who are well-equipped to advance health equity and contribute meaningfully to sustainable futures across countries and health systems.
Global health challenges demand a new generation of professionals who can think systemically, collaborate across disciplines, and act with global responsibility. Dual degree programs that integrate medical education with global health training provide an innovative framework for preparing future physicians to advance sustainability, equity, and resilience.
METHODS:
The University of Arizona’s Zuckerman College of Public Health (USA) in collaboration with Universidad del Valle de Mexico (Mexico) designed an interprofessional dual degree program in medicine and public health with an emphasis on global health to integrate clinical practice with public health leadership and global collaboration. Detailed review and evaluation of both programs was conducted to assure that learning outcomes and competencies were met in the integrated curriculum.
RESULTS:
Currently, the program has a total of 68 students. The first cohort of students enrolled in 2024 and includes 22 medical students. The 2nd cohort started in 2025 and includes 39 medical students and 7 students from biotechnology for a total of 46 students. Recruitment is ongoing for the 3rd cohort that will be starting in April of 2026. Dual degrees face significant challenges related to language, retention, dropout, and sustained engagement. Therefore, attrition can be higher than in single-degree programs.
CONCLUSIONS:
Innovation is reshaping global health education, expanding access through digital platforms, interdisciplinary curricula, and international collaboration. By intentionally addressing barriers related to language, workload, retention, and engagement, institutions can ensure that these programs are not only academically rigorous but also supportive, equitable, and sustainable. When designed with cultural responsiveness, curricular innovation, and strong institutional collaboration, dual degree programs can produce globally competent physicians who are well-equipped to advance health equity and contribute meaningfully to sustainable futures across countries and health systems.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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