Cal Poly Offers New International Study Programs in Ghana and South Africa

Cal Poly is offering two new study-abroad programs in Africa.

The university, which has the highest rates of students participating in study-abroad programs in the 23-campus California State University system, will offer students new CSU International Programs in Ghana and South Africa in 2006.

In Ghana, Cal Poly and other CSU students will be able to study at the University of Ghana, Legon, near Accra, the capital city. Founded in 1948 as an affiliate college of the University of London, the University of Ghana, Legon, is Ghana's premier higher education institution. CSU International Programs students there can pursue course work in African studies, geography and resource development, and social sciences at the campus. Students will enroll in Twi language classes to develop a better understanding of the Ghanaian culture.

In South Africa, students will be able to study at the University of ZwaZulu-Natal in Durban and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in Port Elizabeth. Both institutions have excellent academic reputations and offer a wide variety of degree programs. CSU study-abroad students there can concentrate their studies in one or possibly two fields within their major; they will also enroll in Zulu language classes to gain insights into South Africa.

Study abroad enhances students' academic preparation and provides career opportunities, and provide unique perspectives for students to better understand themselves and the world around them, said John Battenburg, director of International Education Programs at Cal Poly. "Experience in and knowledge of developing countries are increasingly important in today's world. These new programs offer students valuable insights into the cultures and languages of Africa," he said.

Some 600 students a year participate in year-long study abroad programs in 19 countries at over 50 different institutions through CSU International Programs. At Cal Poly, some 90 students participate annually in CSU International Programs, while another 510 students participate every year in other study-abroad partnership programs offered by the university.

Contact: John Battenburg,(805) 756-2945, jbattenb@calpoly.edu