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Is this program right for you?

This program is designed for a wide variety of students, including those interested in studying the political and economic challenges facing sub-Saharan Africa and developing nations, and those interested in studying West African cultural practices in various musical and dance forms.

This program also offers wonderful opportunities, in the classroom and in the community, for students interested in critical issues of public health, development, and African history and culture. Through these mechanisms students become participants in, and contributors to, Ghanaian intellectual, cultural, economic, and social life.

Program Snapshot

  • Directly enroll in a wide range of courses, including West African performing arts, Twi language, and African Studies, or take a Development Studies Track
  • Contribute to Ghanaian intellectual, cultural, economic, and social life
  • Get extensive support from CIEE-trained “U-Pal” students
  • Have the opportunity to participate in community service, volunteering, internships, or an independent study project
  • Enjoy excursions to such places as Kumasi, Dodi Island, Elmina, and Cape Coast

Subject Areas

  • African Studies
  • Archaeology
  • Business
  • Community Health
  • Cultural Studies
  • Culture (host country)
  • Development & Planning
  • English Literature
  • Geography
  • History
  • Independent Study
  • Internship
  • Language (host country)
  • Music
  • Philosophy
  • Political Science
  • Religion
  • Science
  • Sociology
  • Theater
  • Theology
  • Twi Language

About Legon

The CIEE Study Center is located in Legon, approximately 10 miles from Ghana’s capital city, Accra, at the University of Ghana. While still characterized by a vibrant atmosphere, Legon has a slower pace than the bustle of central Accra. Because of its close proximity to Accra, students have the opportunity to experience firsthand the challenges of a large urban environment within an African context. Noticeably friendly, the people of Ghana make this experience one of the best opportunities for students to learn about the complexities of the African continent.

Where You'll Study

University of Ghana

As the oldest and largest of the six public universities in Ghana, the University of Ghana has an enrollment of more than 28,000 students and a faculty of over 900. The University comprises faculties of agriculture and consumer sciences, arts, law, medicine, science, and social sciences; schools of business, nursing, and public health; and three agricultural research stations. The University also has institutes for African studies; international relations; journalism and communication; population studies; and statistical, social, and economic research, among others.

Thoughts From Abroad

Akwaaba (welcome) to Ghana, the beautiful tropical country closest to the center of the earth. Ghanaians are a very friendly, warm, and hospitable people. All who have visited this country, regardless of their length of stay, have loved Ghana, and continue to love it. Ghana’s rich cultural heritage is a huge attraction in terms of language, religion, and family life. The ability to explore the country’s past and present is limitless.

At the CIEE Study Center at the University of Ghana, you will have a tremendous opportunity to experience, learn, and immerse yourself in every facet of Ghanaian and West African life and culture. Here, you will study Twi, Ghana’s most widely spoken language; take courses at the University; and study various forms of West African performing arts, such as music and dance. The variety of housing options also provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the Ghanaian people. Volunteer and internship opportunities will also add value to your learning goals. If you’re interested in exploring economic development, you will find Ghana an excellent case study.

You will have an unforgettable experience as many of your assumptions about life will be challenged and your horizon expanded. Akwaaba!

— Kwasi Gyasi-Gyamerah, Resident Director

Staff Bios

Prior to becoming Resident Director in 2006, Kwasi Gyasi-Gyamerah served as Resident Coordinator for CIEE in Ghana. Born and raised in Ghana, Kwasi received his B.A. and M.A. from the University of Ghana. He serves as Resident Director for both the International Business and Culture program and the Arts and Sciences program in Ghana. His research interests are adolescent sexuality and mental health issues.

Other CIEE Staff
Janet Anarfi Boafo, Program Assistant, assists the Resident Director and helps students with academic, student welfare, volunteer placements, and day-to-day matters. Janet obtained her B.A. from the University of Ghana. Abena Owusua Gyamera, Administrative Assistant, is responsible for housing coordination.

Recommended Credit

semester: 15-18 semester/22.5-27 quarter hours
academic year: 30-36 semester/45-54 quarter hours

Eligibility Requirements

  • Overall GPA 3.0
  • Junior standing and above
  • College-level coursework in African studies recommended

Program Dates

Fall 20098/9/2009 - 12/12/2009
Academic Year 2009-108/9/2009 - 5/15/2010
Spring 20101/8/2010 - 5/15/2010

Application Deadlines

Fall 20094/1/2009
Academic Year 2009-104/1/2009
Spring 201011/1/2009

Click here to check for deadline extensions.

Duration

Fall 200917 weeks
mid-August - mid-December
Academic Year 2009-1038 weeks
mid-August - mid-June
Spring 201017 weeks
early January - mid-May

CIEE Costs

CIEE program fees, inclusions, and estimated additional costs, are outlined below. Please note that CIEE reserves the right to adjust its fees in the event of significant change in exchange rates or other factors beyond its control. The actual cost of the programs may vary slightly for students from different institutions.

For comprehensive fee breakdowns and estimated additional costs, click the costs below:

  • Fall 2009 $11,500
    The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, excursions, field trips, host institution identity card, admission fees to host university events, immersion activities, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.*Students placed in Homestays will have breakfast and dinner provided during the week and three meals a day on weekends.

    Program Fees

    This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.

    Students required to study on CIEE programs through a School of Record will be charged a $340 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed below.

    Medical Insurance$74
    Educational Costs (direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students; including $300 non-refundable Participation Confirmation Fee)$9,752
    Housing*$1,540
    Visa Fees$134
    Total$11,500

    The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, excursions, field trips, host institution identity card, admission fees to host university events, immersion activities, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.*Students placed in Homestays will have breakfast and dinner provided during the week and three meals a day on weekends.



    Estimated Additional Costs

    The estimated additional costs indicated below are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee. Actual expenses will vary according to student interests and spending habits.

    Meals (apartment option)**$1,200
    Transportation (round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure)$2,100
    Local Transportation$100
    Books and Supplies$100
    Personal Expenses$1,800
    Total$5,300

    **Homestay students only need to budget for lunches during the week, estimated at $400.


  • Academic Year 2009-10 $20,700
    The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, excursions, field trips, host institution identity card, admission fees to host university events, immersion activities, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.*Students placed in Homestays will have breakfast and dinner provided during the week and three meals a day on weekends.

    Program Fees

    This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.

    Students required to study on CIEE programs through a School of Record will be charged a $340 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed below.

    Educational Costs (direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students; including $300 non-refundable Participation Confirmation Fee)$17,412
    Housing*$3,080
    Medical Insurance$74
    Visa Fees$134
    Total$20,700

    The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, excursions, field trips, host institution identity card, admission fees to host university events, immersion activities, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.*Students placed in Homestays will have breakfast and dinner provided during the week and three meals a day on weekends.



    Estimated Additional Costs

    The estimated additional costs indicated below are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee. Actual expenses will vary according to student interests and spending habits.

    Local Transportation$200
    Meals (apartment option)***$2,400
    Books and Supplies$200
    Personal Expenses**$3,600
    Transportation (round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure)$2,100
    Total$8,500

    **Students on the Academic Year program should budget an additional $500 for the break between semesters for meals.

    ***Homestay students only need to budget for lunches during the week, estimated at $400.


  • Spring 2010 $11,500
    The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, excursions, field trips, host institution identity card, admission fees to host university events, immersion activities, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.*Students placed in Homestays will have breakfast and dinner provided during the week and three meals a day on weekends.

    Program Fees

    This breakdown has been prepared from the program budget for the purpose of calculating eligibility for financial aid. During the course of program operations, actual figures may vary. It should not, therefore, be used as a basis for calculation of refunds. CIEE reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.

    Students required to study on CIEE programs through a School of Record will be charged a $340 administrative fee in addition to the Program Fees listed below.

    Educational Costs (direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students; including $300 non-refundable Participation Confirmation Fee)$9,743
    Visa Fees $143
    Housing (dormitory option)*$1,540
    Medical Insurance$74
    Total$11,500

    The CIEE program fee includes tuition, housing, optional on-site airport meet and greet, full-time leadership and support, orientation, excursions, field trips, host institution identity card, admission fees to host university events, immersion activities, a comprehensive student handbook, predeparture advising, and a CIEE iNext travel card which includes insurance and other travel benefits.*Students placed in Homestays will have breakfast and dinner provided during the week and three meals a day on weekends.



    Estimated Additional Costs

    The estimated additional costs indicated below are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee. Actual expenses will vary according to student interests and spending habits.

    Personal Expenses$1,900
    Books and Supplies$100
    Meals (apartment option)**$1,200
    Local Transportation$250
    Transportation (round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure)$2,100
    Total$5,550

    **Homestay students only need to budget for lunches during the week, estimated at $400.


Scholarship Information

For a complete list of scholarships available, please vist our Scholarships section.