University of Ghana

"One people, one nation, one destiny" – Ghana's motto

 Ghana is a small West African nation of about 70,000 square miles (about the size of New York State) and about twenty million people. It is a politically stable democracy with a developing economy and a well-educated citizenry known for their friendliness and hospitality. Formerly known as the Gold Coast, Ghana achieved independence from Britain in 1957 under the leadership of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. It was the first black nation in sub-Saharan Africa to become independent. Accra, the capital, is a bustling, rapidly growing city of more than a million people. It has a lively nightlife, affordable restaurants, and a decidedly "non-touristy" atmosphere. English is Ghana's official language, but nine traditional languages are also spoken and residents appreciate your trying to learn at least a few words in the local language. Ghana is close to the equator and has a tropical climate, with average high temperatures in the mid-upper 80's and average low temperatures in the mid-upper 70's most of the year.

 

The University of Ghana was founded in 1948 as the University College of the Gold Coast and became the University College of Ghana with the country's independence. From 1957 until 1961, the University of London oversaw its academic programs and awarded external degrees to its graduates. In 1961, by an Act of Parliament, the University of Ghana was accorded full university status with authority to award its own degrees and diplomas. The University of Ghana is the oldest and largest of Ghana's five universities. It is located in Legon, a suburb about eight miles outside of Accra.

 

 

The Program

Hollins students attend the University of Ghana through collaboration with the Office of International Education of the State University of New York's College at Brockport. Students on the program come from colleges and universities throughout the U.S. The program sponsor (SUNY/Brockport) makes all arrangements (group flight, orientation, housing, etc.). They will also work with you on course pre-registration. There is an experienced full-time, on-site resident director in Accra, who oversees the program and assists students with visa paperwork, housing, registration, health and safety, and other issues. The program is open to students of the arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Affiliate Program Pre-Departure Guide

Academics

 

Students on this program enroll in courses at the University of Ghana with local and other international students. There are hundreds of course offerings in fields including African studies, anthropology, dance, economics, geography and resource development, history, music, political science, sociology, and theatre. Many of the courses focus on West African culture, society, and the arts. Most instruction is in small classes, seminars, and tutorials taught by members of the University of Ghana faculty. As in most overseas universities, there is considerable emphasis on independent reading and learning outside the classroom. Students enrolling in this program should be highly self-motivated and flexible. In many cases, your grade will depend on a single examination at the end of the semester.

 

Students generally take five to six courses for a minimum of 14 credits. The approved courses for affiliated programs links you to a filtered Excel file listing courses that have already been approved by Hollins faculty for credit on each affiliated program. Other courses are subject to the registrar's course approval process.

Other Program Features

• Optional group flight with airport pick-up
• Full-time on-site director
• Full on-site orientation program, including field trips and excursions

Housing and Meals

Students are housed in double rooms in the international students' hostel on the university campus. Hollins provides a meal allowance to cover the cost of meals.

What is Covered by the Comprehensive Fee

• Tuition
• Accommodations
• Meal allowance
• Orientation program and materials
• Program field trips and excursions
• International Student ID Card

What is NOT Covered by the Comprehensive Fee

• Transatlantic transportation
• Airport transportation for return flight
• Books
• Personal expenses, including independent travel

Eligibility

Applicants are also evaluated on their academic and personal maturity, flexibility, and openness to new cultural experiences. Hollins recommends approved candidates to the University of Ghana. The university makes final admissions decisions.

**Please note: In addition to the Hollins application, you must also apply directly to the University of Ghana for acceptance into this program.  

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