gaborone downtown aerial
Gaborone, Botswana

Summer Intern + Study Abroad

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Tentative Dates

-

6 weeks

Credit

6-7 semester hours

9-10.5 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your CIEE Summer Intern and Study Abroad program in Gaborone lasts 6 weeks and features three key components: A part-time internship with an international organization (15-20 hours per week), an internship seminar, and a 3-credit academic course taught online course through CIEE’s global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with cultural and extracurricular activities while building career skills, expanding your professional network, and immersing yourself in Botswana's culture. Live, learn, and work in Gaborone! 

Unique Experiences

Engage in fieldwork and research activities

at a nature reserve

Participate in HIV/AIDS awareness

and prevention campaigns

Organize community events

and workshops at a local NGO

Experience
  • hike abroad botswana students ciee
  • gaborone large group of students

Your Intern and Study Abroad Destination in Gaborone

Gaborone is Botswana’s lively and fast-growing capital, known for its unique blend of modern development and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a dynamic atmosphere with bustling markets, vibrant arts scenes, and a deep connection to Botswana’s traditions. Explore the nearby Mokolodi Nature Reserve, visit the National Museum and Art Gallery, or experience the warmth of local hospitality in the city's cafés and restaurants. Whether you are majoring in business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Gaborone is the perfect place to study or intern abroad.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Gaborone.    

gaborone-student-group-mokolodi-nature-reserve

Program Highlights

  • Internship Placements: CIEE offers the largest inventory of internship placements that align with your career aspirations.
  • Elective Courses: Choose from online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
  • Workshops: Enhance your resume and interview skills while immersing yourself in Botswana’s business culture through an internship and workshops that build practical skills, foster cultural competence, and expand your network.
  • Company Visits: Visit a digitally native company, a consulting firm, or a local non-profit foundation to gain an in-depth understanding of the work environment in Gaborone. 
traditional boat ride in gaborone river

Excursions & Activities 

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Gaborone will open doors for you to explore Botswana’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, contemporary trends, vibrant art, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.       

Samples of past excursions and activities:   

  • Visit the Khama Rhino Sanctuary to witness conservation efforts firsthand and observe rhinos, while also enjoying Botswana’s beautiful landscape 
  • Take a trip to a cultural village and the National Museum to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Botswana 
  • Join host families for a fun and authentic braai (BBQ) where you enjoy delicious food 

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.  

Program Blogs

What I Packed to Study Abroad in Gaborone, Botswana

By Aspen H.

A master list of the items you should bring to study abroad in Gaborone, Botswana - including tips and tricks from my student perspective at the University of Botswana campus.

From CIEE

Arthur Pounds Join UB Marathon: Persevering through the finish line

By CIEE Gaborone at CIEE

Authored by: Ruby Pitinyane On October 13, 2024, Arthur Pounds (AJ) took part in the University of Botswana (UB) marathon at the UB Stadium, marking a significant milestone for him... keep reading

Study Abroad in Botswana Africa

By Lauren B.

For my study abroad, I chose the Community Public Health Program in Gaborone Botswana during the Fall 2024 semester. I am a public health major on a pre-PA track and... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Gaborone: Study on the campus of the University of Botswana, the first higher education institution established in the country. The campus is conveniently located within walking distance of Riverwalk Mall – one of the oldest shopping centers in Botswana – where you will find a movie theatre, plenty of restaurants, and shops. CIEE Gaborone is situated on-campus where you will have access to a gym and computer labs.

Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with optional online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 6-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar. 

GPA

2.5

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All Intern + Study Abroad in Gaborone students take the required 3-credit part-time internship with the embedded internship seminar plus one additional ASU online course for a total of 6-7 semester credits.   

Program Credit

Total Credit: 6-7 U.S. semester /9-10.5 quarter credits  

Course Credit

  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester credits/4.5 quarter credits: 45 hours of in-person and asynchronous online learning activities and 100-120 hours at the internship placement   
  • ASU Online Courses: 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

CIEE offers a focused and immersive experience for students, blending rigorous coursework with hands-on learning opportunities to deepen understanding of both academic subjects and the local culture. 

CIEE courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The required internship seminar is a hybrid course, featuring both in-person sessions and online asynchronous activities.  

In addition to lectures, most CIEE courses often incorporate local co-curricular activities, providing students with firsthand exposure to the rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. These experiences not only enhance academic learning but also foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the local context. 

Attendance is mandatory in CIEE courses. This emphasizes the importance of active participation and engagement in the learning process, encouraging students to fully commit to their academic pursuits. 

ASU Courses: You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. Some are earning their degrees entirely online, while others, like you, are supplementing their education with an online course. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online. Most ASU online courses are asynchronous, meaning there are no set log-in times, but make sure to verify this before the add/drop deadline in case you want to make a change.

Class Format

Students participate in a six-week CIEE part-time in-person internship and required academic course taught in a hybrid learning environment, featuring both in-person class sessions and online asynchronous work. 

CIEE classes are for CIEE students only. Classes are small, typically with up to 15 students per class, and emphasize communication and work in small groups. Instruction is supported and augmented online with our learning management system, Canvas. 

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5 weeks long in semesters and 6 weeks long in the summer, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end. You’ll need a standard PC or Mac desktop or laptop computer with a download speed higher than 25 Mbps, as well as access to email, productivity software like Microsoft Office and other applications needed to perform a variety of educational functions. Most course materials you will need are available online. Since you are working mostly or entirely asynchronously, you’re given deadlines for your assignments by your instructor or in your syllabus, but you can work at your own pace within these due dates. Most instructors suggest a recommended pace to optimize your learning, but you have the flexibility to complete your ASU courses while pursuing your studies at your CIEE location.

Grading

CIEE reports all final course grades to students’ home institutions using a U.S. letter grade equivalent scale of A-F (ASU grade scale is A+ through E). For CIEE-administered courses, students’ grades are based on several different assignments and activities related to the academic course, including but not limited to: Engagement with the course materials, online participation forums, reflection papers, and written exams. In the context of internships, besides the specific deliverables outlined in the syllabus and the completion of 100-120 work hours, feedback from the internship supervisor is also taken into consideration. Internship supervisors and students each provide written evaluations of progress towards goals.

ASU grading: As a U.S. institution of higher education, the grading practices should be familiar to any CIEE student. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” grading options are not allowed for CIEE students. Please see the CIEE Academic Manual for Students for more information about your grades.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 

Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

 

Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

Botswana's work scene is dynamic, driven by growth in eco-tourism, hospitality, public health, and development. The laid-back yet professional culture emphasizes family and community, promoting work-life balance. Colleagues often socialize after work, creating a supportive and relaxed environment. 

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A student intern sitting at a microscope in a lab

Health Science

Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.

A restaurant manager reviews information on a table with a chef

Hospitality and Tourism

Polish your hospitality management skills by studying global tourism practices, customer service excellence, and more.

Interns wearing hardhats at a community development site

Human Services

Deepen your knowledge of human services through social welfare work, community development, and international advocacy.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE STEM Scholarship
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Summer 2026 6 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Basetsana Maposa

Center Director

Basetsana Masego Maposa is a seasoned health, gender, and international development professional with over 15 years of experience managing and directing national and multilateral public health projects. She holds two...

Keneilwe Manisa

Program Assistant

Keneilwe completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology at the University of Botswana in 2022. She started as a student volunteer in 2019 and also has experience with...

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Utilize the Internship Search Tool

Search our catalog of internship opportunities to view the placements that align best with your academic and professional goals.

2

Start a Program Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

3

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

4

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Email us if you have questions or need help applying to this program. Upon your acceptance, you'll speak with on-site CIEE staff about your internship goals. CIEE will reach out to companies that align with your goals, interests, and qualifications.

Request Info