Gabarone
Gaborone, Botswana

Arts + Sciences

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

15 - 17 semester hours

22.5 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

15 - 17 semester hours

22.5 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

15 - 17 semester hours

22.5 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

-

44 weeks

Costs

Credit

15 - 17 semester hours

22.5 - 25.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Bring your studies to Botswana, one of Africa's best wilderness and wildlife areas! Nicknamed the "Gem of Africa," Botswana features incredible natural wonders like Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, and the Chobe National Park. This beautiful country is also home to the "Big Five" (lions, leopards, elephants, black rhinos, and buffalo), making its natural landscape a fascinating backdrop for your study abroad adventure.

When class is in session, you will take courses in biology, environmental science, business, education, engineering, media studies, African languages, and more at CIEE Gaborone and CIEE's partner school, the University of Botswana. All courses are taught in English. Outside the classroom, you will have opportunities to participate in co-curricular activities and excursions beyond the city to enhance classroom learning, provide intercultural understanding, and better connect with the people of Botswana.

DIVERSIFY YOUR STUDY ABROAD ADVENTURE
For those looking to gain real-world work experience while abroad, you can add a for-credit internship to your curriculum at a local business or make a real difference by volunteering at a local organization. 

Unique Experiences

ENJOY LIFE AS A VILLAGER

and be exposed to different socio-economic spaces in modern-day Botswana during a village visit

VISIT KHAMA RHINO SANCTUARY

to discover Botswana’s rich wildlife and learn how communities are part of conserving the country’s ecology system

ENHANCE YOUR GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

by taking all your classes with local students

1,111 Carats

Second largest diamon discovered in Botswana

30K SQ KM

Makgadikgadi is one of the largest salt pans

18k

Student population at the University of Botswana

Experience
  • Kids in Gaborone
  • Giraffe in Gaborone

Your Destination

Run by multiparty democracy, Botswana is one of Africa's most stable countries. Most of its people belong to a single ethnic group, the Tswana, and the country is well-known for its rich biodiversity and diverse landscapes. Its capital, Gaborone, is one of Africa's fastest-growing cities and is located in the south, close to the South African border. Gaborone hosts the headquarters of the Southern African Development Community, which focuses on regional development, economic growth, and poverty relief.  

CIEE Gaborone is located at the University of Botswana, one of the main and oldest universities in the country. The university is situated in the city's center, within walking distance of major shopping centers and government offices.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Gaborone.

The Culture

Gaborone students with giraffe

Excursions & Activities

  • Expand your view of Botswana with local excursions to places like Main Mall, a village day visit, and a braii (barbecue) with local families. 
  • Meet students by joining a campus sports team or student group, such as Young Women's Leadership Club, Wildlife Society, Psychology Club, etc. 
  • Practice your skills in the Setswana language as you explore historical and cultural sites. 
  • Discover Botswana’s rich history and biodiversity with excursions to Mokolodi Game Reserve, Khama Rhino Sanctuary, and Bahurutshe Cultural Village.
Students in Botswana volunteering

Projects

  • Internships: Get real-world work experience for life after college with an internship at a community-based organization, such as Mokolodi Nature Reserve, Baylor Children Hospital, Nkaikela Youth Group,  or a local NGO or organization.   
  • Volunteering: Make a tangible difference by donating your time and energy to an environmental organization or an NGO orphanage, hospice group, or women’s shelter setting.

Program Blogs

From CIEE

My Sense of Belonging in Botswana

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Brianna James Even though my study abroad program concluded in May 2023, I am still brought to tears of reminiscence when I reflect on all those wonderful moments I... keep reading

Internship at Moselewapula

By Hong J.

For my fall internship with CIEE in Botswana, I had the opportunity to intern for the Guidance Department at Moselewapula Junior Secondary School in Phase 2 of Gaborone. I was... keep reading

Dealing with Grief While Abroad

By Destyni F.

What were your motivations to study to abroad? Was it to travel? Was it for personal growth? Was it a combination of those benefits you would gain? That was the... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • "I think that CIEE has a strong support system that does a good job in exposing students to diverse experiences."

    Ja'Na B. DePauw University

Housing
Academics

Academics

This program invites students of all majors to earn credits toward their degree with cutting-edge courses at University of Botswana and CIEE Gaborone. In addition, students volunteer and participate in unique excursions designed to immerse themselves in the community. Together, these pieces give students a solid understanding of contemporary Botswana culture and its role in Southern Africa. A typical course load is five classes a semester. Students choose courses from a range of options and must include one that focuses on Botswana or Southern Africa.

University of Botswana was established in 1982 with the goal of improving economic and social conditions for the nation. 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. The University of Botswana offers state-of-the-art facilities including a newly built medical school and sports facilities open to all students. Except for the CIEE Language and Culture Practicum, all courses are taught by University of Botswana’s faculty.

CIEE Gaborone is located in an ultra-modern building on the University of Botswana campus. 

Arizona State University (Optional): Enhance your international academic coursework with flexible online elective courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.

GPA

2.75

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Five classes from the University of Botswana and/or CIEE electives. 

Online Course Options: substitute up to two ASU online courses

Program Credit

Total credit: 15-17 U.S. semester/22.5-25.5 quarter credits 

Course Credit

CIEE courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 

CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 seminar hours, 100-120 internship placement hours 
University of Botswana courses: 2-4 U.S. semester/3-6 quarter credits; 30-60 contact hours 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

The educational system is different, and students notice striking differences. Following the British model, this system offers less structure and asks students to take greater responsibility and initiative. Professors expect a great deal of individual study. Students are expected to take a full program of courses and complete all prescribed assignments and exams. Learning by rote is common. Professors read from notes or books, expecting students to copy their recitations word for word. Most professors are eager to give extra help during office hours. 

Class Format

University classes involve a combination of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and laboratories. Lectures may include up to 100 students. Tutorials and seminars range from 15 to 25 students. 

Grading

Most courses at the University of Botswana use a continuous assessment model that includes written assignments, projects, research exercises, essays, and written and oral exams. Assessment is done with percentage scale, letter grade (A-F), and grade point. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

University of Botswana Courses

Students may select from a variety of courses. This is a sample list of courses offered:

African Languages and Literature 
Politics and Southern African Poetry 
Epic Performance in Africa 
Popular Culture in Africa 
Women’s Literature in Botswana 
The Perception and Transcription of African Language Sounds 
Studies in African Aesthetics

Business and Economics 
Development Economics 
Economics of Botswana and Southern Africa 
Econometrics I 
Environmental Economics 
Industrial Relations 
Development Problems and Policy

Education 
Rural Development and Rural Extension

Engineering and Technology 
Design for Sustainability 
Design Fundamentals 
Engineering Mathematics I 
Engineering Materials

English 
Botswana Literature 
Currents of Thought in the Literature of the African Diaspora: African-American Literature 
Gender Issues in African Literature

Environmental Health and Environmental Science 
Environment and Disease 
Urbanization and Environment 
Energy and Environment 
Rural Development Theory and Practice 
Ecotourism

History 
African Cultures and Civilization 
African Diaspora in the Islamic World and Asia 
Historiography of Botswana 
Trade and Politics in Central African Kingdoms

Media Studies 
Media in Botswana 
Current Issues in African Media 
Economics and Social Issues in PR and Advertising 
Media Law 
Basics of TV Production 
Introduction to PR and Advertising

Political Science and Administrative Studies 
Africa in World Politics 
Politics in Botswana 
Politics of South Africa 
Botswana in the Region Context

Science 
Applications of Thermodynamic and Electrochemistry 
Dynamics of Savanna Ecosystems 
Regional Geology of Southern Africa 
Parasitology for Health Sciences 
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics 
Biology of Flowering Plants 
Chemical Informatics 
General Geology 

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 


Search ASU Online Courses >

Program Options
Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

Botswana's work scene is dynamic, driven by growth in eco-tourism, hospitality, public health, and development. The laid-back yet professional culture emphasizes family and community, promoting work-life balance. Colleagues often socialize after work, creating a supportive and relaxed environment. 

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A student intern sitting at a microscope in a lab

Health Science

Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

Interns wearing hardhats at a community development site

Human Services

Deepen your knowledge of human services through social welfare work, community development, and international advocacy.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2025 18 weeks Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2025 18 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2024 18 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,850
Program Academic year 2024-2025 44 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $38,800

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $16,456**

Housing = $3,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $252

International Airfare = $1,700††

Local Transportation = $100†††

Books & Supplies = $250

Personal expenses = $210††††

Total Costs = $2,512

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in Residence Halls, you should budget approx. $756 for meals

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Homestay students should budget for additional $190, and students registered for an internship should budget for additional $50

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $16,456**

Housing = $3,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $252

International Airfare = $1,700††

Local Transportation = $100†††

Books & Supplies = $250

Personal expenses = $210††††

Total Costs = $2,512

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in Residence Halls, you should budget approx. $756 for meals

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Homestay students should budget for additional $190 and if registered for internship budget for an additional $50

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $16,356**

Housing = $3,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,850

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $252

International Airfare = $1,700††

Local Transportation = $100†††

Books & Supplies = $250

Personal expenses = $210††††

Total Costs = $2,512

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in Residence Halls, you should budget approx. $756 for meals

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Homestay students should budget for additional $190 and if registered for internship budget for an additional $50

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $32,306**

Housing = $6,000***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $38,800

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $504

International Airfare = $1,700††

Local Transportation = $600†††

Books & Supplies = $500

Personal expenses = $420††††

Expenses during break = $2,000†††††

Total Costs = $5,724

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in Residence Halls, you should budget approx. $756 for meals

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††Homestay students should budget for additional $190 and if registered for internship budget for an additional $50

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

†††††academic year students who wish to stay onsite are responsible for arranging their housing and meals during the semester break

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Basetsana Maposa

Center Director

Basetsana Maposa returned to Botswana in 2008 after spending 10 years living in the United States. She has extensive experience working in health, youth leadership, human rights, and educational development.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

3

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

4

Interested in an optional internship?

After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!

Request Info