Shadow healthcare service providers in clinics, learning about scientific and social health issues, and Botswana’s healthcare system.

What is unique about this program?

• Study with local professors and students though direct enrollment at the University of Botswana
• Observe in local healthcare service providers and organizations
• Give back to the community through volunteerism
• Explore rural public health issues and the relationship between modern and traditional medicine through a multiday stay in a rural village

Why study healthcare in Botswana?

Botswana has one of the most vibrant health care systems in Africa. On this program, you’ll explore the country’s healthcare delivery system and learn the successes and challenges from firsthand experience. You will observe the multifaceted response to a variety of healthcare issues in clinics, public health non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and hospitals. Engaging coursework, Setswana-language learning, homestays, and more will immerse you in this inspirational country and help you gain an understanding of its people. Your work in the classroom and engagement in the community offer you a unique insight into healthcare in Botswana and a profound intercultural study abroad experience.

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. The capital Gaborone is one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, located in the south, close to the South African border. Gaborone hosts the headquarters of the 14-nation Southern African Development Community, which focuses on regional development, economic growth, and poverty relief.

How do I choose among programs?

• See the Office of Global Learning’s “Selecting a Program” page for information on program types and considerations
• Use the search features on the Experience Cornell  Opportunities page to filter for programs approved by your college, and by particular subject areas
• Go to the “Get Advice” page for information on drop-in advising hours, scheduling an advising appointment, returned student contacts, and college advisors for study abroad
• Find out about upcoming events, check out FAQs, and read stories from returned study abroad students

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. You may complete both steps simultaneously, but the Cornell approval process must be complete before your program advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit any approval or nomination to the program.

1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page.
2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. (Note: This deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval. Many programs fill by rolling admission.)