UC Education Abroad Programs in Africa

UC Education Abroad Programs in Africa for undergraduate and graduate students.

The University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) is the official, system wide study abroad program for the University of California. UCEAP is partnered with 115 universities worldwide and offers programs in 42 countries. These UC-approved programs combine immersive learning with engaging activities. UCEAP students enroll in courses abroad while earning UC units and maintaining UCLA student status. Many programs offer internship, research, and volunteer opportunities. 

Choose from summer, quarter, semester, and yearlong options. Financial aid and scholarships are available for qualified students.

Students interested in studying in Africa can choose from the following programs:

Study Abroad in Botswana

Come to Botswana’s capital, Gabrone, one of Africa’s fastest growing cities where traditional culture and modern global influences intersect. Located in southern Africa, Botswana is home to spectacular nature reserves, diverse wildlife habitats, and rich ecosystems.

As you take classes at the University of Botswana, you can intern volunteer, or conduct research in an area of your interest—from public health to biodiversity in the Kalahari Desert or African literature. Cultural activities and excursions include a weeklong homestay in a rural village and trips to the Gaborone Game Reserve, National Museum, and Okavango Delta.

Study Abroad in Egypt

Egypt is a focal point of dramatic socio-political change in modern North Africa. Its fusion of ancient and progressive influences offers an empowering and unforgettable experience. Explore the Great Pyramids, the Nile, majestic tombs, and Islamic Cairo’s frenetic souks (bazaars).

Courses on Islamic art and architecture, Arab media, history of Sunni and Shi’a Muslims, and other draw on the rich resources of Cairo, often including field trips. Arabic language study as well as internships for academic credit and service learning helps connect you to Egyptian society.

Study Abroad in Ghana

Ghana, one of the New York Times top travel destinations, is home to Africa’s fastest-growing economy and an ideal locale for those in development studies. Discover villages that live by centuries-old traditions and new upscale neighborhoods that embody West Africa’s challenging social disparities.

Acquire UC credit as you take courses and live alongside Ghanaian students on campus. Exceptional community engagement projects are available in public health, renewable energy, business, women’s rights, and more. Provide HIV/AIDS education to schoolchildren, promote eco-tourism, or help improve access to healthcare in a remote village.

Study Abroad in Morocco

Exotic yet contemporary Rabat is the seat of government and port gateway to North Africa’s fabled locales including Casablanca, Tangier, and the Saharan desert. The multilingual, academic setting lends itself to the studies of modern Moroccan politics, culture, and religion in relation to the Arab world and the West.

Cultural group trips to places like Fez, Marrakesh, the ancient ruins of Chellah, Andalusian Gardens, and Kasbah Mosque are included to expand on class studies, while homestay housing with a Moroccan family gives you a glimpse into life as a local resident. You may also volunteer with NGOs, women’s groups, schools, and government agencies.

Arabic language study is also available in Morocco: Study Arabic at the CIEE Study Center in Rabat and also choose courses provided by CIEE at Mohammed V University. Homestays are an integral part of this exciting new program, giving you a genuine, behind-the-scenes understanding of Moroccan life. Take advantage of this chance to prepare yourself for countless job openings in diplomacy, international business, NGO work, education, health services, and more.

Study Abroad in Senegal

This democratic nation in French-speaking West Africa offers an intriguing mix of natural coastal setting and urban life brimming with arts festivals, music, and performance venues. It is an excellent home base for studies in public health, development studies, French or African language studies, or Senegalese culture.

Living in the capital, Dakar, with its multilingual society and diverse socio-cultural landscape, is a perfect starting point for a future career in Foreign Service. Highlights include credit-bearing internships alongside local experts in education, health, and commerce; travel and community projects in rural villages; and fieldwork with NGOs or the Peace Corps.

Wolof language study is available in Senegal as well: ​Designed for students with interest in African studies, international relations, development studies, French and Francophone studies, Senegal introduces students to French-speaking West Africa through coursework, homestays, internship and community service opportunities.

The vibrant political and economic center of Dakar provides an opportunity to see a multilingual urban African community in action.  Rural excursions and an extended stay outside Dakar deepen student appreciation and understanding of the country. 

Tracks within the program include development studies (for those with advanced French) and language and culture (open to all).  These tracks provide unique perspectives on issues related to gender, religion, politics, the economy and environment in Senegal today.

The program includes day trips and longer excursions that include observation of non-governmental service projects, with visits to the historic Gorée Island and Toubab Dialaw, a fishing village and artist’s colony.  

Study Abroad in South Africa

South Africa comprises dynamic and evolving social and ecological systems, 11 national languages, expansive coastlines, wildlife parks, mountain climbing adventures, and a multicultural population. In Cape Town, study your UC major and experience fusion cuisine, upscale entertainment, and a warm and friendly society.

Witness the nation’s ongoing social transformation as manifested in new initiatives to promote public health and development, economic empowerment, and education. Take part in rewarding internships and volunteer projects in ecological conservation, criminal justice, and other enterprises.
 

Study Abroad in Tanzania

From Mt. Kilimanjaro to the plains of Serengeti, Tanzania is a land of beauty and dramatic contrast. Colorful markets, tranquil coastlines, and incredible wildlife will be a memorable part of your experience as you join program-guided safaris and excursions to national parks and reserves.

Development and African studies majors will find much to learn in Tanzania, a nation that personifies change with its progressive social and political agendas, environmental development, and evolving relationships in gender, class, and ethnicity. Gain field experience working with Tanzanians in education, healthcare, conservation, or social services through internship or service-learning courses.

African programs by academic specialty

Biological and Environmental Science

Ghana: University of Ghana, Accra

Sub-disciplines: Aquatic Biology, Biochemistry, Ecology, Environmental Science, Microbiology, Plant Biology, Neurobiology, Zoology, Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental Biology,

Language of Instruction: English

The Department of Marine and Fisheries Science collaborates with agencies from around the world on research in such areas as biodiversity assessment, toxins and heavy metals in seafood, and shoreline evolution. The Department of Animal Biology and Conservation Sciences focuses on theory and application of animal biology. In addition to diverse coursework, you can conduct in-depth research in collaboration with faculty.  

South Africa: University of Cape Town

Sub-disciplines: Aquatic Biology, Biochemistry, Ecology, Environmental Science, Evolution, Human Biology, Neurobiology, Pharmacology, Physiology, Plant Biology, Zoology, Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental Biology

Language of Instruction: English

Small class sizes, field work, and hands-on lab work all complement studies at the University of Cape Town. The Department of Biological Sciences houses the Bolus Herbarium, Marine Biology Research Centre, the Plant Conservation Unit, and the Animal Demography Unit, among other research centers. The Department of Environmental & Geographic Sciences is known for its commitment to sustainable living. Some focus areas include climatology, climate change, soil erosion and land degradation, and environmental management.

Engineering

South Africa: University of Cape Town

Sub-disciplines: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering

Language of Instruction: English

The engineering degrees at the University of Cape Town emphasize design skills, entrepreneurship, and project management. Students in civil engineering are taught theoretical aspects in lectures, but a larger part of the courses are lab sessions that investigate properties of construction materials, soil behavior, water quality, and waste treatment.

Fine and Performing Arts

Ghana: University of Ghana, Accra

Sub-disciplines: Visual Arts: Art Theory & Criticism, Design

Performing Arts: Acting, Choreography, Dance, Design, Directing, Ethnomusicology, Music Performance, Music Composition & Theory, Production & Management, Screen & Playwriting 

Language of Instruction: English

The School of Performing Arts offers both practical and theoretical coursework in music, theater, and dance. Many courses have a focus on Ghana and Africa. The Department of Homes Science offers coursework in clothing design. You will have the opportunity to participate in internships and special study projects.

Math and Physical Sciences

South Africa: University of Cape Town

Sub-disciplines: Astronomy, Chemistry, Earth Science, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics

Language of Instruction: English

Experience firsthand the dynamic and evolving ecosystems of South Africa. The Faculty of Science offers a full range of courses taught by the best scientists in the country. The Department of Astronomy has strong ties with the South African Astronomical Observatory, which is located just two miles away from campus. The Mathematics Department is known for carrying out international research in both pure and applied mathematics.

Political Science Abroad

Egypt: American University of Cairo

Sub-disciplines: American Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory

Language of Instruction: English

Egypt is the epicenter of dramatic socio-political change in the modern Middle East. While studying at the American University of Cairo, choose from course topics such as Comparative Politics of the Middle East, Muslim Political Theory, and International Security. Research, internships, and independent study for academic credit may also be available.

Psychology

South Africa: University of Cape Town

Sub-disciplines: Biopsychology, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Science, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology

Language of Instruction: English

South Africa embodies dynamic and diverse cultures and ongoing social transformation. Here you can learn psychology at an internationally recognized department with strengths in clinical psychology as well as research in a number of areas such as child development, gender, psychological trauma, social psychology, cognitive psychology, research methodology and statistics, psychoanalytic theory, and neuropsychology.

Complete information on UCEAP programs in African locations as well as around the world can be found at the UCEAP offical website. 

UCLA EAP contact information:

UCLA International Educaton Office
1332 Murphy Hall 
Los Angeles, CA 90095

Tel: 310-825-4995 (General Inquiries)
Tel: 310-206-9966 (Travel Study Inquiries)
Fax: 310-825-1528 
Email: info@ieo.ucla.edu
 

Published: Friday, March 7, 2014