CIEE Community Public Health
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- Language of Instruction: English
- Class Eligibility: Juniors
Introduction
Home to one of the most vital healthcare systems on the African continent, Botswana is the ideal study abroad destination for students who want to explore regional, social, and scientific health issues. When class is in session, you’ll further your understanding of biology, development, medicine, and public health courses at CIEE Gaborone and CIEE’s partner school, the University of Botswana. Outside the classroom, you’ll gain firsthand experience observing community public health in action in government-run clinics, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and hospitals.
Throughout your program, you will have opportunities to test your skills and knowledge by volunteering at local organizations, conducting community assessments, and organizing a health fair/expo to provide community health services to a village in rural Botswana. You can also expect your courses and experiences to be complemented by CIEE-led co-curricular activities and excursions beyond the city to enhance classroom learning and provide intercultural understanding.
- 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.
Academic Overview
Requirements
This program focuses on public and environmental health issues in Botswana. Students join the campus community and enroll in three required CIEE courses and 2-3 electives from CIEE Gaborone and/or University of Botswana courses. Students learn about healthcare delivery and related challenges, as well as basic Setswana speaking skills.
Direct Enrollment
Students have the option to enroll in two courses at the University of Botswana.
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
Major, minor, and concentration transfer credit will only be granted for courses in which students receive a grade of a C or above.
Curriculum
Required courses:
- Public and Environmental Health Issues in Botswana
- Community Health Practicum
- Setswana Language and Culture Practicum
Course Highlights
Public Health
Note: Changes occur frequently. Students are responsible for finding the classes they need and consulting the official site of the institution.
Non-Academic Overview
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.
Options
- Semester
- 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