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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Sustainable Development, Environmental Studies & Sport Science
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Location
Port Elizabeth
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Host University
Nelson Mandela University
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Term
Spring 1 2024
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Program Dates
Feb 01, 2024 - Jun 26, 2024
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Program Length
Semester
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Application Deadline
Oct 10, 2023
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Oct 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
$13,750
- This session is closed and is no longer accepting applications.
Study Abroad Program Description
Nelson Mandela University is one of ISA's most flexible university partners in terms of course selection. As a visiting student, you can select from a wide range of courses within any of the university's seven faculties: Arts, Education, Health Sciences, Science, Law, Business and Economic Sciences, or Engineering, the Built Environment and Information Technology. As scheduling allows, you may even combine courses offered in different departments and faculties. One of the highlights of the NMU offerings is the 2-credit Community Service Learning course.
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 Site Specialist.
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.
Resident Staff
Resident Staff
The part-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 Offices
On-Site Offices
You will have access to many of the resources and facilities at the host university. ISA resident staff members will hold office hours either at the host university or at another pre-determined location in the city each week.
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
Academic Information
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Course SelectionCourses and course hours of instruction are subject to change.Eligibility for courses may be subject to a placement exam and/or prerequisites.Some courses, such as research or applied learning, may require additional fees.The courses listed below are only a sampling of what Nelson Mandela University offers. Please see the course catalog, linked below, for additional course options.
- Course Credit
Per Nelson Mandela University's (NMU) recommendation, 4 NQF (National Qualifications Framework) credits are equivalent to 1 U.S. semester credit (1.5 quarter units). Students may also receive 2 U.S. credits for participating in the NMU service-learning course. The final decision regarding credit transfer is determined by the students' home universities. Students enrolled in 48-60 NMU credits are considered full-time. The transcript from NMU will reflect NQF credits.
If you select less than 48 NMU credits, you will need to get confirmation from your home university that you are enrolled in full time status.
Most modules (courses) are available to study abroad and exchange students. Students can choose modules from any faculty.Take note of the semester offered, along with module unique codes. Spring modules may be listed as semester 1 or terms 1+2. Fall modules may be listed as semester 2 or terms 3+4. Students may only enroll in modules offered at the Summerstrand Campus (A1), North Campus, South Campus, Ocean Sciences Campus and Second Avenue Campus. Credit weighting/conversion varies by each module. For a description of each module, use the Module finder: NMU Course Finder. Enter a subject descriptor (ex. Biology) of that particular module. - Transcript Information
The transcript from Nelson Mandela University will reflect NQF credits for each course listed below. Please be in touch with your U.S. University regarding credit transfer for this program.
To access the fullest and most up-to-date course catalog for the host university, click the "Go To Course Search" button below and enter a subject descriptor (ex. Biology) of that particular module.
Go to Host University Course Search Here
Go to Course SearchCourses
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Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating identity questions related to traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
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.
PORT ELIZABETH TEAM
Calton Mupande
Resident Staff, South Africa
Calton Mupande
Resident Staff
Calton Mupande is a graduate student at Nelson Mandela University. He is originally from Zimbabwe but has been in Port Elizabeth for several years while completing his undergraduate law degree. Calton has also been an active International Student Leader on campus and recently organized and led the Africa Day events in collaboration with the International Office. In his free time, Calton is an avid traveller and hiking enthusiast. He has explored breath-taking landscapes and embraces the physical and mental challenges of trekking. Calton is passionate about immersing himself in diverse cultures, fostering a continuous desire to learn and understanding the intricacies that shape our global society.
Identity Resources
Accessibility & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@studiesabroad.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
Destination Information
Our diversity pages for each ISA destination include information on Indigenous communities, languages, race and ethnicity, religion, LGBTQIA+, and disability access. We hope it will help when reflecting upon and contextualizing intersectionality in your host community.
Identity Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog, and interested students should email diversity@studiesabroad.com for more information.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
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. No matter which type of housing you choose, you will commute to class as most locals do, via the university bus or walking. With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
Student Residence
The residence halls in Port Elizabeth 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
Addo Elephant National Park
The Addo Elephant National Park has over 550 elephants and is the third largest conservation park in South Africa. You will have the opportunity to discuss local policy that protect these lands from development, privatization, and poaching. Become further aware of differences in how some of these species feed, breed, select their partners for mating and survive various threats and predators.
Addo Elephant National Park
The Addo Elephant National Park has over 550 elephants and is the third largest conservation park in South Africa. You will have the opportunity to discuss local policy that protect these lands from development, privatization, and poaching. Become further aware of differences in how some of these species feed, breed, select their partners for mating and survive various threats and predators.
Untold Stories of Mandela in Port Elizabeth
Nelson Mandela Bay is named after the world icon and former statesman, Dr. Nelson Mandela. This tour seeks to illustrate the reason Mandela gave permission to have his name given to this Metro area out of thousands of cities from across the world.
Untold Stories of Mandela in Port Elizabeth
Nelson Mandela Bay is named after the world icon and former statesman, Dr. Nelson Mandela. This tour seeks to illustrate the reason Mandela gave permission to have his name given to this Metro area out of thousands of cities from across the world.
Cultural Activities in Port Elizabeth
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Port Elizabeth. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Port Elizabeth special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included park visits (cultural park with arts and crafts expo and nature park), community involvement (local community visit, cultural soiree community dialog, and outreach community service), old city town visit, and local museum visits.
Cultural Activities in Port Elizabeth
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Port Elizabeth. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes Port Elizabeth special.
These activities vary each term, and previous offerings have included park visits (cultural park with arts and crafts expo and nature park), community involvement (local community visit, cultural soiree community dialog, and outreach community service), old city town visit, and local museum visits.