"The program/trip has been one of the most fulfilling events of my life."

"From depressed areas of Johannesburg to wild game reserves in Pilanesburg to the beauty of Cape Town, every area we visited offered an outstanding visual backdrop for our learning experience."

"Our trip to South Africa through GMU was amazing! You could read dozens
of books and attend hours of lectures in the States without gaining as much insight into the country's policy challenges as you get in just a few days of the
trip."

"The South African study abroad program was magnificent. This program was the perfect blend of socio/political and socio economic studies with the extra bonus of a tremendous cultural experience. Great professors, great tour guides great country. I highly recommend it."



Study in South Africa
June 8-20 2008
Earn 3 credits

Course directors:
Dr. Maxi Schoeman, Head, Department of Political Studies, University of Pretoria,
South Africa
Desmond Dinan, Director of the International Commerce Program, School of Public Policy, GMU
Michal McElwain, Director of External Programs, School of Public Policy, GMU 

South Africa: Political, Economic, Social and Security Challenges

This study-abroad course examines the political, economic, social and security challenges confronting South Africa today. These include poverty alleviation, black economic empowerment, the HIV/AIDS crisis, education, land and the environment. The course also explores South Africa in its regional setting, with specific attention to issues such as Zimbabwe, regional integration through SADC (Southern African Development Community), efforts at peacekeeping and conflict resolution (Democratic Republic of Congo), and South Africa as a continental power driving NEPA (New Partnership for Africa’s Development). An examination of trade and investment issues affecting the country’s international position brings a global perspective.

Classes take place in Pretoria (on the campus of the University of Pretoria) and Cape Town (on the campus of the Business School of the University of Cape Town), with lectures by a variety of specialists, including academics and practitioners. Formal sessions are complemented by various site visits, governmental and non-governmental, to encourage a more comprehensive understanding of the multi-faceted issues affecting the country and society. The program aims to provide context for understanding the rapid change that South Africa has experienced during the past fifteen years and the dynamic nature of the country as Africa’s emerging powerhouse.

PROGRAM FEE:$3500*

May 3rd Orientation- 9:30am - 12:00pm rm 245

Application
2008 Schedule
Course Readings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Contact
Useful Travel Links
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Hotels
Student Comments/Testimonials

*If spring/summer tuition goes up, so will the price (difference per credit hour).
The program fee is based on a 7 Rand to the dollar. If the dollar falls, the program price will increase accordingly. The final price of the program will be set April 10th.

School of Public Policy Study Abroad Programs

Currents, a Web journal on the activities of George Mason University's School of Public Policy features the Study Abroad program.

 

Photos courtesy of South African Tourism