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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Political and Social Sciences, African Studies & Health
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Location
Cape Town
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Host University
University of the Western Cape
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Term
Fall 2 2023
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Program Dates
Mid Jul, 2023 - Mid Nov, 2023
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Apr 01, 2023
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Apr 15, 2023
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Credit
48 - 60 Host University Units
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Eligibility
2.50 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$15,250
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
Located in the local Belleville neighborhood, the University of the Western Cape is still a beacon of freedom and societal change to South Africans, due to its role in the anti-Apartheid movement. The University houses the UWC-Robben Island Mayibuye Archives, which includes a collection of artifacts, historical documents, photographs, artworks, and audio-visual materials of the apartheid era in South Africa. You can take courses in several popular UWC academic disciplines, including African history, Development Studies, Education, Conflict Studies, and Political Science.
Semester + Semester Programs Available: You can combine the Spring + Fall OR Fall + Spring sessions at a discounted price. For more information about this option, please contact your ISA South Africa Program Manager.
Enjoy Flexibility with ISA Flex
We’ve partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to help you overcome common study abroad challenges by adding an ASU Online course to your ISA program. With more than 2,100 courses to choose from, ISA Flex minimizes academic challenges, like major requirements and limited course options, so you can make the most of your experience abroad. Once you’ve applied, access the Flex form in your ISA Student Portal for more information on how to add this to your program and enroll in the course you need.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.50.
You must have second semester sophomore standing at the time of participation in the program.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception
Airport Reception
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions
Excursions
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, and some summer sessions.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Credits
Host University Units
48 - 60
Recommended U.S. Semester Credits
12 - 15
Recommended U.S. Quarter Units
18 - 25
Academic Information
- Course Credit
Per the University of the Western Cape, 10 NQF credits are equivalent to 3 U.S. semester credits/4.5 quarter units. 15 NQF credits are equivalent to 4 U.S. semester credits/6 quarter units. Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
- Course Level
Students with no prior knowledge about a specific subject should select introductory courses at the 100 level. Students with prior knowledge about a subject should choose courses at the 200 and 300 level.
Eligibility for courses may be subject to a placement exam and/or prerequisites.
- Course Selection
The courses listed below are only a sampling of what courses the university offers. Courses and course hours of instruction are subject to change. To search for courses, please enter the UWC module course database.
1) Select Academic Year & Faculty and then "undergraduate" and "full-time" and "degree".
2) Click the bubble next to "an International Student"
3) Click on BA (2101)
4) View the course list. Note that Semester 1 courses are only offered during the Spring semester and Semester 2 courses are only offered in the Fall semester. You cannot take Whole Year courses unless you will be studying the full year in South Africa. ISA recommends you take a MAXIMUM of one 300 level course as past students have indicated taking two was too difficult due to academic rigor.
5) Get all possible courses you might take approved for credit transfer by your advisor.
*Courses at the 200/300 level normally require completion of pre-requisites prior to enrollment. Students will enroll in 4-6 modules per semester; each module is typically worth 10-20 UWC credits. Request for sample syllabi can be made to the Cape Town Program Manager
- Transcript Information
The transcript from the University of the Western Cape will reflect NQF credits for each course listed below. Please be in touch with your U.S. University regarding credit transfer for this program.
- Duly Performed/Duly Performed Refusal
Duly Performed (DP) is a grade qualifier used at UWC that will determine a student's eligibility to take their final examination. If a student has received DP for a course, it means that they have met the requirements for continuous assessment (eg. mid-terms, quizzes, assignments) to take their final exam. In the UWC system, grades are heavily contingent on the final exam. The largest percentage of a student's grade in a course is determined by the final exam grade. Opting to not take the final exam will likely lead to a failing grade in the course.
To access the fullest and most up-to-date course catalog for the host university, click the "Go To Course Search" button below and follow the direction above under Course Selection.
Go to Host University Course Search Here
Go to Course SearchCourses
select allclear all
Course Disclaimer
- Credits earned vary according to the policies of the students' home institutions. According to ISA policy and possible visa requirements, students must maintain full-time enrollment status, as determined by their home institutions, for the duration of the program.
Support & Funding
U.S. Team
Riley Dean
Program Manager, South Africa & Spain
Originally from Seattle, WA, Riley completed a B.A. in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Spanish at the University of San Diego. As an undergraduate, she spent a semester in Madrid, Spain, discovering an interest in foreign-language acquisition and cultural exchange. Drawn to Madrid's lively atmosphere and rich history, Riley returned after graduation to teach English in several primary schools. Her love for travel has brought her to over 15 countries, including South Africa and Ecuador. Now, as the Program Manager for South Africa and Spain, Riley looks forward to helping other students explore and prepare for their own study abroad experiences. In her free time, Riley loves to play soccer, paint, and take dance classes.
Patrick Reid
Program Manager, Greece, Ireland & South Africa
Born and raised in Ocean City, MD, Patrick received a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). While at UMBC, Patrick spent a semester studying Social Sciences and Humanities at the University College Dublin (UCD) in Ireland. While there he was able to join several societies and clubs and fully immerse himself in the university experience, which helped ignite a love of Irish history and culture. He also used this time abroad to travel and explore Europe, becoming much more comfortable as a global citizen. After graduating from UMBC, Patrick spent several months volunteering abroad as an ocean lifeguard in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica where he provided a much-needed service to a region that struggles with high rates of water related emergencies. In his free time, Patrick enjoys running, swimming, lifting and whenever possible, surfing. Since becoming a Program Manager, he is excited about sharing his passion for travel and adventure with other students in search of unforgettable experiences abroad!
CAPE TOWN TEAM
Ouma Mpela
Resident Director, South Africa
Ouma Mpela
Resident Director
Ouma Mogale-Mpela has over 20 years of experience in international higher education in South Africa. She was born in the northwest part of South Africa in a small village town called Itsoseng. She moved to Cape Town in the late ‘90s to further her studies in Human Resources Management but later joined the International Office at the University of Cape Town as their Semester Studies Abroad Program Coordinator. Ouma has been a Resident Director in South Africa since 2004. She enjoys and excels at building solid and lasting relationships. She considers herself a student of life, loves traveling to new places, and is the mother of four beautiful children.
Funding Your ISA Program
Wondering how you’ll fund your program? ISA’s got you covered! If you receive financial aid for your home university, you will likely be able to use those funds for study abroad too. The first step is usually speaking with your home university. Check out the steps for using financial aid here.
Need to know how much to budget for a term abroad? Take a look at the additional expenses you might expect, depending on your program.
As an ISA participant, you have the opportunity to apply for scholarships and grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad programs. We offer over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, visit the scholarships and grants page.
View all Funding OptionsHousing
Living in ISA housing will give you the opportunity to experience aspects of the South African lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor. Uncovering the uniqueness of your surroundings will help you to feel right at home. As a student at the University of the Western Cape, you will commute 35 minutes via public bus to UWC. With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
Student Residence
The residence halls in Cape Town are located off campus. The apartment-style accommodations have shared kitchens and bathroom facilities. Meals and laundry service are not included. You will pay a $500 refundable security deposit if living in this ISA housing option. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property, or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
Aquila Private Game Reserve
Spring Semester Only: The Aquila Game Reserve is a game reserve where you will keep your eye out for the Big 5: the elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, lion, and African buffalo. Gain a sense of the impact of climate change on the ecosystem of the Aquila Game Reserve and enter consider how policy makers can do more to mitigate further damage.
Aquila Private Game Reserve
Spring Semester Only: The Aquila Game Reserve is a game reserve where you will keep your eye out for the Big 5: the elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, lion, and African buffalo. Gain a sense of the impact of climate change on the ecosystem of the Aquila Game Reserve and enter consider how policy makers can do more to mitigate further damage.
Hermanus
Fall Semesters Only: Learn firsthand about South Africa's vast biodiversity through sea kayaking and whale watching.
Hermanus
Fall Semesters Only: Learn firsthand about South Africa's vast biodiversity through sea kayaking and whale watching.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Marvel at Cape Town's natural wonders with Table Mountain in the background. Find a new perspective exploring the tree top canopy walkway and the enjoy many types of Proteas, South Africa's national flower.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Marvel at Cape Town's natural wonders with Table Mountain in the background. Find a new perspective exploring the tree top canopy walkway and the enjoy many types of Proteas, South Africa's national flower.
District Six Museum
Explore the famous museum commemorating the Coloured population of the city.
District Six Museum
Explore the famous museum commemorating the Coloured population of the city.
Langa Community Tour
Designated as a zone for Black Africans prior to apartheid, the Langa Township is a suburb of Cape Town. See first-hand some typical living conditions within the townships of South Africa and meet some of the locals.
Langa Community Tour
Designated as a zone for Black Africans prior to apartheid, the Langa Township is a suburb of Cape Town. See first-hand some typical living conditions within the townships of South Africa and meet some of the locals.
Robben Island
Visit the infamous Apartheid-era political prison where former South African president and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years.
Robben Island
Visit the infamous Apartheid-era political prison where former South African president and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years.
Cultural Activities in Cape Town
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Cape Town. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Cape Town special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included a community service day, city walking tour, First Thursdays (visit galleries and attend cultural events around Cape Town), The Castle of Good Hope Museum, and visiting the Old Biscuit Mill for African Cuisine.
Cultural Activities in Cape Town
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Cape Town. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Cape Town special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included a community service day, city walking tour, First Thursdays (visit galleries and attend cultural events around Cape Town), The Castle of Good Hope Museum, and visiting the Old Biscuit Mill for African Cuisine.