Introduction to Jamaica

White sand beaches, tropical forests and unique wildlife with the friendly island population are what most people think of when they think of the island of Jamaica. Jamaica is the third-largest island of the Greater Antilles and a major player in the Caribbean economy. It sits 191 kilometers west of Hispaniola and is hem to the Taino people. It is an increasingly diverse community, settled first by the Spanish and then the British before gaining independence in 1962. Today it draws immigrants from around the world who want to enjoy the island lifestyle.

As a tropical island, Jamaica is known for its rich and diverse ecosystem. It has many species found nowhere else in the world, including the Jamaican hutia and the Jamaican slider turtle. It is a picturesque island filled with friendly people, making it a popular place for international students to pursue their degrees.

What Is the Law System in Jamaica?

Jamaica follows the common law system which is based largely on the system that originated in England. In fact, the legal system in Jamaica was inherited from England and largely follows the same practices as the system currently used in the United Kingdom. Under this system, the courts have significant power. Jamaica's court decisions are binding authority for similar cases in the future, provided the courts are equal to or lower than the deciding court.

Why Study in Jamaica?
Jamaica presents many world-class opportunities for higher education through a number of institutions which offer dedicated faculty and diverse curriculums, as well as academic partnerships with leading international universities from the United States and England.

One of Jamaica's most well-known institutions of higher education is the University of the West Indies, which was founded as an extension of the University of London; UWI has campuses throughout the Caribbean, and is a premiere training ground for future doctors and other healthcare practitioners thanks to its highly regarded Faculty of Medical Sciences. Other well-known institutions include the University of Technology, which houses schools of pharmacy, health science, and architecture; and the newly established College of the Caribbean. While many young Jamaicans might have in the past emigrated off the island for work and advanced schooling, the government has had success with its campaign to expand its tertiary educational offerings.

A passport is required for visitors, but there is no visa requirement for those staying under six months, except for citizens of Pakistan, Nigeria, Sri Lanka and Sierra Leone. The requirements do vary according to country of origin, so visitors should be sure to confirm that all necessary papers are in order before traveling to Jamaica.

While academic opportunity abounds, this is by no means the only reason to seek out Jamaica as a place of study. Rather, Jamaica's rich past, diverse culture of food and music, and modern amenities, combined with the extraordinary welcoming nature of its people, offers an adventure unlike any other for students of life. Studying abroad in Jamaica provide international students with the rare opportunity to learn firsthand what life is like on this captivating isle.