Public Health in Ghana

Students fly together as a group to Accra, the capital of Ghana, on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, and known for the Makola Market, vast colorful bazaar. Popular seafront spots Labadi Beach and Kokrobite Beach offer golden sand and high-energy nightlife.

For three weeks, students will engage with caregivers to understand the living experiences of families in a low-middle income country and explore contemporary social issues, problems, controversies, and potential solutions in global health, particularly in developing countries.

Visit historical and cultural sites to understand how colonialism, slavery, environmental conditions, and socio-economic factors influence health and development. Additional places to visit include Cape Coast Castle, Kakuum National Park, Makola Market, the Centre for National Culture and Bojo Beach.

Following the program, students return to Michigan from Ghana.

Requirements: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Students who don't meet the GPA requirement may still be eligible and should speak with OU's International Education Office prior to applying.

Course: PH 4750/5750: Global Health and Social Issues (4 credits)

Those who take this class during the academic year and are interested in the field experience, will register for the course as an independent study student.

Students participate in a community-based, non-profit related project and visit a health facility or community clinic. Lectures will provide theoretical lenses to understand and critique issues and policies relating to health and development in Ghana.

Courses are taught in English by OU faculty and instructors

The program is open to students in diverse backgrounds, including biology, neuroscience, nursing, wellness and promotion, public health, pre-med, and pre-dental students. Students in sociology, social work, women's studies, anthropology, psychology, and have an interest in health issues are welcome.

Students will stay at the University of Ghana International Students Hostel or other hostel in Accra, Ghana.

Students may purchase meals independently at the many restaurants, cafes and bistros throughout the region. Favorite cuisine in Ghana are includes fufu (a mashed potato-like dish), banku (a fermented corn dough), kenkey (fermented corn and cassava dough), and waakye (rice and beans).

Tuition: 4 Credits

You will enroll in and you will be charged for these credits on your eBill at your normal rate of tuition.

Program Fee: $4,500

To be paid to OU on our MarketPlace payment system and includes: airfare, housing and most meals, ground transportation and all excursions while in Ghana, and health insurance.

Additional Costs: $895

You will need additional funds for these expenses not covered by program fee. Amounts are estimated.
Meals: $200
Incidental personal expenses: $200
Passport (if you don't have one): $175
Visa: $60
Yellow fever immunization: $200
Malaria pills: $60

Scholarships and Financial Aid: You are able to use financial aid to cover your full cost of attendance to this program (tuition, program fee and additional costs). Scholarships are also available through your study abroad application.