Uganda, Kampala - SIT: Uganda - Development Studies

Examine contemporary development with case studies focusing on environment, health, gender, and civil society in the vibrant city of Kampala.

Location

Kampala, the capital of Uganda, is a thriving city ranked 13th on the list of fastest growing cities on the planet. The city borders Lake Victoria, one of the largest lakes in Africa. You can take a walk through history at one of the local museums or become one with nature on a Safari. At the Ndere Centre, cultural cooking and dance classes are offered, as well as performances by the locals.

Institution

The School for International Training (SIT) has designed a program based in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, which gives students an in-depth look at these issues with hands-on work experience.  Faculty and professors from Makerere University give lectures and facilitate discussions that inform students of Uganda’s social and political spheres.

Academics

Students enroll in classes taught in English as well as a Luganda language class. The program duration is approximately 15 weeks long. Enrollment in a Luganda language class is required. Students are able to complete an independent study project or an internship. There are no prerequisites for this program, but a background in development studies or related fields is strongly encouraged.

The SIT Uganda: Development Studies program does not have the most traditional academic schedule.  Students take a two credit Intensive Language Study: Luganda course, Field Study Seminar, and a six credit Development Studies Seminar.  For two weeks in the middle of the program, students are given the opportunity to focus on public health, grassroots development, or gender and development by working with organizations such as Kasangati Health Center, the Uganda Change Agent Association, and the women and gender studies department at Makerere University.  Students conduct weekly processing sessions for sharing experiences and cultural insights with the Academic Director.  The final portion of the semester is spent completing a six week Development Practicum, in which students work with a development organization and analyze development theories in a practical setting.

Student Life & Co-Curricular

Kampala is a city full of nature and history. Students are able to partake in the everyday life of Kampala while residing in homestays. SIT organizes visits to the Kasubi Tombs, Uganda Museum, Kabaka’s Trail, and Sezibwa Falls.  A trip to Rwanda sheds light on the country’s more recent history and the genocide memorials. The program also takes students on excursions to Western and Eastern Uganda to explore different projects and business organizations.

Housing

Homestays are the only housing option for students.  Because this program involves several different travel locations, students have one six-week homestay in Kampala, and a one week homestay in a rural area of Eastern Uganda.  Families are generally middle to lower class within society.

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

How to Apply

Enrollment is limited, and applicants are encouraged to apply early. Click here for more Information on the Marist Abroad application process.

Additional Information

If you have any additional questions about the program contact the Program Coordinator at caitlin.paul@marist.edu. 

Please click here for additional information on the program.