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Summer Community Public Health Program in Botswana
The summer Community Public Health study abroad program in Gaborone, Botswana is designed for students with an interest in public health issues in developing countries; the governmental, societal, and environmental factors that influence healthcare; and international health issues including HIV/AIDS. Students should expect to learn about ... read more
The summer Community Public Health study abroad program in Gaborone, Botswana is designed for students with an interest in public health issues in developing countries; the governmental, societal, and environmental factors that influence healthcare; and international health issues including HIV/AIDS. Students should expect to learn about overcoming challenges in healthcare from the context of a developing nation.
Academic Program
This seven-week program consists of five weeks of coursework, a language and culture practicum, and a weeklong field placement in a rural clinic. Students also engage in an urban community service practicum in and around Gaborone as part of the academic curriculum. Students gain a holistic appreciation and understanding of health and healthcare, and obstacles impeding the successful development of sustainable public healthcare. In addition, the program helps equip students with basic Setswana-speaking skills.
Academic Culture
The University of Botswana (UB) is a relatively young institution and, like other universities in the region, has limited resources compared to most U.S. colleges and universities.
The summer courses have been designed by CIEE in conjunction with the University's Department of Environmental Health. All coursework is conducted in English with the exception of the Setswana Language and Culture Practicum. Students should be prepared for a style of teaching that is more formal and technical, tends to rely solely on lectures, and emphasizes memorization. Readings are typically assigned in class. The practicum may involve independent research, hands-on training, journal writing, and presentations.
Students take the Public and Environmental Health course every morning Monday through Friday for two hours each day. The Community Health Practicum combines lectures with a local service practicum, and includes a week at a rural Botswana health clinic. The practicum features a mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and field work. Less
