Pursue Health Studies, Sociology, Cultural and African Studies, Political Science, Psychology with an in-depth and hands-on approach in South Africa.

What is unique about this program?

• Take specially designed courses with other IES Abroad students in a variety of disciplines.  IES Abroad courses are created with a comparative and interrelated curricular focus in order to help you learn more about South Africa and its neighboring countries.

• Choose from several Health Science or Sociology courses taught by local lecturers and learn how globalization, development, and disease affect different communities.

• Study relevant cultural aspects of Southern African literature, music and dance, or language, or learn about the power of protest, gender and sexuality, or the environment in the region. Through your instructors, you’ll learn new perspectives focused on the Southern African experience.

• Experience course-related trips to gain additional insight and enhance what you’ve learned in class.

Why study health, culture, and development in Cape Town?

Southern Africa is a rich, vibrant region and has become one of the world’s fastest growing economic zones despite facing challenges of poverty, disease, and economic imbalance. Its burgeoning economy, youthful population, ecological and ethnic diversity, and evolving politics make the continent an increasingly important player in the world of the 21st century. Cape Town’s idyllic setting on the South African coast makes it the perfect base from which to study this fascinating region, and our Health, Culture & Development Program is designed to offer insight into the complexity and breadth of the contemporary issues facing the southern part of this continent.

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a 2-Step process.  You may complete both steps simultaneously, but Cornell Approval must be obtained before your program advisor in Global Learning can complete any approval or nomination forms for the program itself. 

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 webpage.
2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. Note that this deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval.  Many programs fill by rolling admission.

Only 1^st and 2^nd choice programs will be considered for Cornell approval.  Cornell Approval is required for credit from Cornell.

Returning Applicants