How to Study Abroad in Ghana Where To Study Abroad In Ghana. Most people studying in Ghana attend one of two universities — the University of Cape Coast or the University of Ghana. Both are known for their excellent academics; classes are taught in English, and the University of Ghana is an affiliate college of the University of London. Some American universities have satellite programs here as well. If you are looking for direct enrollment in a U.S. school while abroad, this is a good option; however, you will not be taking classes with any local college students.
Top subjects to study in Ghana are humanities courses such as business, history, political science, and of course, African studies. You can also find performance art, environmental sciences, and even service-learning courses that involve work with local community service organizations. You’ll probably find the classes here are much less structured than at your own university; in fact, Ghana is best for students who can work well independently, because this is the style of instruction in most courses.
Living In Ghana. There are two main housing options for studying abroad in Ghana — either living in a residence hall with Ghanaian and international students, or living with a family in a homestay. The latter gives you a more family-style life where you eat Ghanaian home-cooked meals and attend family birthdays or other celebrations.
Arts, Religion, Nightlife, And Wildlife. Traditional Ghanaian craft is centered around textiles and cloth, and fabric is an important form of their art and written history. Other art forms include diverse music and dance performances. Drums are a major instrument, and Afro-jazz is a popular style here. Christianity is the main religion in Ghana, but there are also areas in the north that are predominantly Islamic. Relations between these two groups are peaceful.
The Academy of African Music and Art in Kokrobite, offering overnight lodging and some great drum shows and beaches. Markets are a part of life in Ghana. The city of Accra has the bustling Makola market and the cool Osu Night Market. In Kumasi, check out the Kejetia Market.
Be sure to stop by Kakum National Park while studying abroad in Ghana to soak in the tropical rainforests, butterflies, pygmy elephants, and meerkats. You’ll walk over hanging bridges that are at the canopy level — a thrill and a challenge to anyone with a fear of heights.
Mole National Park is the biggest wildlife refuge in the country and home to hippos, monkeys, elephants, antelope, and other creatures. For some incredibly cool photos, check out Nzulezo, a small village built on stilts along the water.
Historic Excursions. Many locations in Ghana are steeped in history; two of the most prominent are Cape Coast Castle and St. George’s Castle built in 1482, The two are close enough together that both can be visited the same day. A guide is highly recommended, as they will be able to explain the significance for the slave trade and take you through the castle. Be prepared to feel unnerved when you visit the dungeons where slaves were kept — the space has a very creepy air. Cape Coast Castle was originally built as a hub for trading gold and timber, but was later used in the slave trade.
The Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi is another fascinating Ghanaian landmark that provides a rare glimpse into the lives of Ashanti kings hundreds of years ago.
Ghana is a safe and affordable country, and is an excellent choice for studying abroad whether or not you have been to Africa before. You’ll be welcomed by total strangers here, and traveling around the country is relatively easy. It’s a guaranteed learning experience that will open up your eyes to another world.