Program Overview
Ghana, located in West Africa, is a developing nation that was the hub of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. It has been a stable republic for nearly 50 years. This interdisciplinary study abroad program will expose students to the rich traditions of an ancient African society, and provide authentic African cultural experiences. Ghana’s tropical nature, wilderness, biological and cultural diversity, as well as its economic standing make it a prime target to experience innovative ecotourism products side-by–side with traditional tourism. In addition, Ghana faces a number of social problems that makes it a perfect field study as the country continues to transform itself to a viable economy.
The program incorporates a 30-hour service-learning component that gives students an opportunity to get involved in educational institutions, community social service, and/or development project(s). Excursions and activities are designed to augment academic requirements, and enhance student's understanding of social problems, and their ability to create sustainable entrepreneurial and innovative ventures--and learn stewardship of economic resources in any career.
The group will spend about half the time in the capital city of Accra, staying in University housing. This is also where the service-learning component will be arranged. We will spend and about a week in Kumasi—the second largest city, which will provide a launching point for several cultural and educational excursions. We will spend 2 nights at a Mole game reserve, and several days in the Cape Coast, which was the center of the slavery trade, and as a venue for exploring ecotourism. Housing outside Accra will be in four star hotels. All breakfasts and many meals are included.
A visa is required for this program at the cost of $50.00. This, as well as all required paperwork, will be collected in the fall.
Requirements
Applicants should have a G.P.A. of at least 2.0 (on a 4.00 scale).
Meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance, which is based on academic quality and demonstrated ability to contribute to the objectives of the program. Early application is encouraged as acceptances may be made on a rolling basis and the program may fill before the application deadline.
For all participants, a formal application is necessary, including a deposit, one transcript (non-University of Delaware students only), and one recommendation. An interview may be conducted in person or by telephone.
Study abroad at the University of Delaware is highly competitive. See here for an overview of the acceptance process. If you are not selected for your first choice program, we recommend moving your application and deposit to another program (by emailing your request to studyabroad@udel.edu).
UD students pay all program fee deposits by direct bank transfer via this website: http://www.udel.edu/studyabroadpayments. Non-UD students should send a check, payable to the University of Delaware, to CFIS, Elliott Hall, 26 East Main Street, Newark, DE 19716. Credit card payments are not accepted.
