South Africa, Cape Town - CIEE: Cape Town Multiple Programs

Near the southwestern most tip of Africa, Cape Town is all about the wonders of nature – and the fallout of a complicated history that make this a society in transition. Experience it all, with strong academics, links to Cape Town peers and communities, historical site visits, and time to explore on your own.

Location

Cape Town is a lively city with an indecipherable atmosphere that seems both European and African. It is a product of First World and Third World with its affluent and impoverished areas.  In addition to the leisure activities of water sports, nightclubs, and gourmet restaurants, Cape Town is an example of an economy transitioning from the colonial period to the global period.  CIEE in Cape Town welcomes students from all academic disciplines who want to learn about contemporary South African life and society.

Institution

The University of Cape Town (UCT) was established as a college in 1829 and is internationally recognized as a leading research university. All of the courses are taught by UCT faculty. Class sizes range from 100 to 300 with lectures and tutorials. An academic year at UCT runs from early February till late November.

Academics

Students enroll in classes solely for CIEE students with courses taught in English. The program duration is 20 weeks. Students are required to enroll in at least once course with specific African content and are highly encouraged to partake in community service through Habitat for Humanity. Different program choices will have specific course guidelines. During the program, students will partake in a homestay lasting for three days while in the community of Ocean View.

The curriculum offers courses, research and community service. Students can enroll in a maximum of 18 credits per semester. Community service is not credit bearing.

Student Life & Co-Curricular

Cape Town is a colorful adventure that has entertainment opportunities filled to the brim with cultural education. The University of Cape Town lets students join up to three social, sport, or cultural clubs. The program also includes a few excursions. Students will explore sites such as Cape Peninsula and Robben Island.

Housing

Students in Cape Town have the option of living in a homestay to maximize cultural immersion. The travel time to the university on public transportation is around 20-30 minutes long. The University of Cape Town also provides apartment-style residence halls with the local students. Residence halls are composed of single rooms, a bathroom, and a shared kitchen for two to three people. The university is a five minute bus ride away. There is also an option to have off-campus apartments with fellow CIEE participants with both single and double rooms within an apartment. They are also provided shared kitchens and other facilities for up to ten students.

Program Cost

The program fee includes tuition (12-16 credits), accommodation, program orientation, scheduled academic excursions, and international health insurance. The program cost is based on full-time semester tuition and on-campus Marist housing. Students receive a detailed cost sheet once they have been admitted to the Marist Abroad Program.

Admission Criteria

• Minimum 2.5 – 3.0 cumulative GPA at the time of application
• Sophomore standing or higher at the time of study abroad
• Academic Advisor approval of program and coursework