Gabarone
Gaborone, Botswana

Community Public Health

Study Program

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

15 -18 semester hours

22.5 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

15-18 semester hours

22.5 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Credit

15 -18 semester hours

22.5 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Summer Community Public Health program in Gaborone lasts a full semester and is designed for students interested in biology, medicine, and community health. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in Botswana's culture. Live and learn in Gaborone!

Unique Experiences

Observe Healthcare Providers

to experience how the primary healthcare system is used as the key to the attainment of the goal of health for all

Participate in Community Assessments

to gain insights on health issues affecting communities in rural Botswana

Visit Khama Rhino Sanctuary

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

Experience
  • gaborone student safari truck ride

Your Destination

Gaborone is Botswana’s welcoming capital, known for its warm climate, peaceful atmosphere, and rich cultural traditions. The city offers access to vibrant markets, local music and art scenes, and nearby natural reserves like Mokolodi Nature Reserve. Whether you are majoring in public health, environmental science, business, communications, liberal arts, or African studies, Gaborone is the perfect place to study abroad.

Gaborone students volunteering with kids

Program Highlights

  • Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE courses, host institution courses and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
  • Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
  • Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join university clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city.
gaborone-student-group-mokolodi-nature-reserve

Excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Gaborone will open doors for you to explore Botswana’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.       

Samples of past excursions and activities:   

  • Profile a community in rural Botswana and implement a community health outreach activity to learn about the health issues facing communities in rural settings
  • Step beyond the classroom with hands-on community-based learning projects, where you’ll actively engage with local initiatives and gain practical experience
  • Explore a range of public health facilities, connecting with professionals and gaining invaluable insights into healthcare systems and practices

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.  

Program Blogs

Study Abroad in Botswana Africa

By Lauren B.

For my study abroad, I chose the Community Public Health Program in Gaborone Botswana during the Fall 2024 semester. I am a public health major on a pre-PA track and... keep reading

From CIEE

Internships vs. Volunteering Abroad: Which is Better?

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Are you looking for internship or volunteering opportunities while abroad? You’re in luck with CIEE! Follow along as we detail the differences between internship vs. volunteer work and what you... keep reading

From CIEE

4 Best Countries to Study Abroad in Africa

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Africa is the world’s second-largest and second-most-populous continent on the planet. The people, the landscapes, the animals, and more that make up this magnificent region are diverse and profound. If... keep reading

What People are Saying

  • “Our trip to Kanye was good exposure to clinics outside of Gaborone and the difference in culture between Gaborone and cities/villages outside of the capital.”

    Student, Fall 2017

  • “The staff was one of the best parts of my experience. They were able to help me with my registration issues and support me through all stages of my experience as staff but also as my friends. I can't say enough good things about the program volunteers and how they eased my transition during the first few weeks of my stay here.”

    Student, Fall 2017

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Gaborone: Study on the campus of the University of Botswana, the first higher education institution established in the country. The campus is conveniently located within walking distance of Riverwalk Mall – one of the oldest shopping centers in Botswana – where you will find a movie theatre, plenty of restaurants, and shops. CIEE Gaborone is situated on-campus where you will have access to a gym and computer labs.

University of Botswana: The University of Botswana was established in 1982 with the goal of improving economic and social conditions for the nation. With more than 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.

Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar. 

GPA

2.8

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Immigration/Entry Requirements

Visa Required: Yes. Students will apply for a Residence Permit on-site.

Additional Requirements

Students take three required CIEE courses and select three electives from CIEE Gaborone and/or a range of options at the University of Botswana. 

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

  • Three required CIEE courses
  • Three elective courses at the University of Botswana, one of which must be in public and environmental health 
  • Online Course Options: substitute up to one ASU online course

Program Credit

Total credit: 15-18 U.S. semester/22.5-27 quarter credits 

Course Credit

  • CIEE courses: 2-3 U.S. semester/3-4.5 quarter credits; 30-45 contact 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

Students notice striking differences in the educational system here. Following the British model, there is less structure and students 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 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. Semester schedule: One week of orientation, 14 weeks of classes, a one-week break, and two weeks of examinations. CIEE Gaborone follows the University of Botswana academic calendar, with additional time for orientation. 

Arizona State University: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online.

Class Format

University classes are open to students from Botswana and other nations. They 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. CIEE classes are only open to CIEE students. 

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5-weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.

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. Grades are given on a percentage scale, letter grade (A-F), and grade point scale. 

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students.

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

Effective Spring 2020, CIEE will offer COMM 3301 GABO: Intercultural Communication and Leadership course as an additional elective option. 

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Health Professions and Related Programs

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

Health Professions and Related Programs

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA ELECTIVE COURSES 

Students select three University of Botswana courses from the offerings listed below. One of the three elective courses must be Public and Environmental Health related. It is not guaranteed that the classes below will be offered, so we recommend choosing backup courses. 

PUBLIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 

Students enrolled in this program must select at least one course from this list. 

Community Mental Health Nursing 
Principles and Practice of Community Health Nursing 
Traditional and Alternative Medical Systems 
Demographic Aspects of HIV/AIDS Epidemic 
Basic Nursing Concepts and Skills in Health Sciences 
Basic Toxicology 
HIV/AIDS Education, Prevention and Control in Botswana 
Introduction to Community Health Nursing 
Parasitology for Health Sciences 
 

ADDITIONAL UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA COURSES 

African Languages and Literature 
Politics and Southern African Poetry 
Post-Colonial Theory and African Literature 
Rites of Passage: A Study of Social Dramas 
Studies in African Aesthetics 

Business and Economics 
Development Economics 
Economics of Botswana and Southern Africa 
Entrepreneurship and New Business 
Environmental Economics 
International Trade 
Money and Banking 

Education 
Rural Development and Rural Extension 

Engineering and Technology 
Design for Sustainable Development 
Digital Cartography 
Engineering Materials 
Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulics 
Infrastructure Planning and Management 
Water Engineering 

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 
Environmental Issues 
Urbanization in the Developing World 

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

Science 
Applications of Thermodynamic and Electrochemistry 
Dynamics of Savanna Ecosystems 
Geology of Africa 
Parasitology for Health Sciences 
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics 
Wetlands Ecology and Management 

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 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 BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

 

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.

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
  • McDermott Health Sciences, Nursing, and Public Health Merit Scholarships
  • Stohl International Undergraduate Research Scholarships
  • 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 Fall 2025 18 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Spring 2026 18 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $17,950
Program Fall 2026 18 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*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

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

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 $150 †††
Books & Supplies $250
Personal expenses $210 ††††
Total Costs $2,562

*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 $190

††††$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 $14,956 **
Housing $2,500 ***
Insurance $194
Total Fees $17,950

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

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 $290
International Airfare $1,700 ††
Local Transportation $150 †††
Books & Supplies $250
Personal expenses $245 ††††
Total Costs $2,635

*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. $845 for meals

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

†††Homestay students should budget for $190

††††$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.

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

Estimated Costs

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

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 Masego Maposa is a seasoned health, gender, and international development professional with over 15 years of experience managing and directing national and multilateral public health projects. She holds two...

Keneilwe Manisa

Program Assistant

Keneilwe completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology at the University of Botswana in 2022. She started as a student volunteer in 2019 and also has experience with...

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 study 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 Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info