Study Abroad

CIEE University of Botswana

  • Location: Gaborone, Botswana
  • Minimum GPA: 3.0
  • Language of Instruction: English
  • Class Eligibility: Juniors

Introduction

Bring your studies to Botswana, one of Africa’s best wilderness and wildlife areas! Nicknamed the “Gem of Africa,” Botswana features incredible natural wonders like Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, and the Chobe National Park. This beautiful country is also home to the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, black rhinos, and buffalo), making its natural landscape a fascinating backdrop for your study abroad adventure.

When class is in session, you will take courses in biology, environmental science, business, education, engineering, media studies, African languages, and more at CIEE Gaborone and CIEE’s partner school, the University of Botswana. All courses are taught in English. Outside the classroom, you will have opportunities to participate in co-curricular activities and excursions beyond the city to enhance classroom learning, provide intercultural understanding, and better connect with the people of Botswana.

CIEE’s student center is located at the University of Botswana, one of the main and oldest universities in the country. The university is situated in the city’s center, within walking distance of major shopping centers and government offices.

  • Visa:

    Required.

    Non-US citizens should consult with CIEE and the Office of International Student Support before applying to the program.

  • Fees: Students pay Haverford tuition to Haverford College. Haverford will then be responsible for submitting payments to the program. Students pay room and board fees directly to CIEE.
Requirements

Students take a Setswana Language and Culture Practicum course and regular university courses. These courses can be chosen from the CIEE program electives and courses offered by the University of Botswana.

Direct Enrollment

University of Botswana:  Established in 1982, the university strives to improve economic and social conditions for the nation and maintain a regional and international outlook. With 15,000 students and a staff of more than 2,000, the university is committed to academic freedom and integrity, cultural authenticity, and internationalism.

Academic Credit

Students are expected to take 15-17 credit hours per semester, usually 4-5 University classes plus the required language course. Major, minor, and concentration transfer credit will only be granted for courses in which students receive a grade of a C or above.

Curriculum

There are two CIEE programs students may participate in: Arts & Sciences or Community Public Health.

Course Highlights

African Literature, Art History, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Cities, Ecology, Economics, Education, Engineering & Technology, English, Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Feminist and Gender Studies, Geology, Health Studies, History, International Relations, Literature, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Public Health, Urban Studies

Note: Changes occur frequently. Students are responsible for finding the classes they need and consulting the official site of the institution.

Review the Full Academic Requirements for Studying Abroad

Orientation

Students participate in a week-long orientation in Gaborone to introduce students to the city, country, culture, and academic programs.

Number of Students

TBD

Housing/Meal Plans

University residence halls – Residence halls are on the university campus. Standard housing includes a shared double room with a local student at the university. Includes a shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities. There are dining halls on campus, as well as local restaurants and cafes nearby.

Homestay – Live with a local family, organized for students by CIEE. Homestays are 45-60 minutes from the university. Host families provide breakfast and dinner during the week and all meals on weekends.

Haverford students may not opt for independent off-campus housing – that is, housing not arranged by the program.

Notes

Gain Travel Grant – The CIEE Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grant helps cover airfare to and from CIEE program locations for students who demonstrate financial need. Pell-eligible students are guaranteed a GAIN Grant if they submit their CIEE scholarships application by October 15 for spring programs, or by April 1 for fall programs.

View Scholarship Information

Apply to Study Abroad!

  • PDF
  • Program List

Options

  • Semester
  • STEM Courses Offered
  • Direct Enrollment

Dates

  • Semester I: Late July to early December
  • Semester II: Mid-January to late May

Application Deadlines

  • Semester I: March 5
  • Semester II: October 15

Faculty Contact