Study Abroad Programs in Accra, Ghana

So you’re officially convinced Accra, Ghana is on your top-choices list, but you want to make sure it’s the right choice, especially when it comes to your studies. Ghana offers an array of disciplines to study and various types of programs, making Accra a feasible option for everyone!

Popular subjects to study. In the booming city of Accra, there are an array of subject for students to study but the most popular areas are African Studies — Imagine walking the same streets that you are reading about in your textbooks. Is there any better way to learn? Another popular subject for international students in Accros is Performing Arts. Music and dance is huge part of African culture. Again, is there any better way to learn about African culture than learning the azonto dance and playing the rakatak? The Academy of African Dance and Art is located in Accra, drawing performers from all over world. 

Lastly, many students check out service learning programs while studying in Accra. Here, you’re given the opportunity to truly integrate into the culture by doing meaningful work in the community for credit. 

Short Term and summer programs vs. long term programs. Accra has so much to offer that many students participate in long term programs to fully experience the culture and learn about the city’s history; however, a long-term program isn’t an option for everyone. Studying abroad in Accra offers various lengths of stay for different programs. For example, students who are looking to study abroad in Accra but only have their school breaks available for travel can participate in a volunteer programs. These programs gives students a an opportunity to not only learn about others but also about themselves. 

Attending Universities vs. other program types. Some international students choose to directly enroll at the University of Ghana which exposes them to the West African education system, as their classes will be taught by a Ghanaian professor. Students are also able to completely immerse themselves in Ghana life and they will “live as the locals do” by living in one of the university’s halls of residence and participating in their social life. 

Another option is to study abroad through an organized programs, which acts as an aid during your time abroad. These programs typically tend to offer more course options, and they also help you coordinate all the nitty gritty details that may be hard to solve for when you are still at home — like housing and meal plans.

Ghana’s capital holds over 2 million residents, and the city is home to the University of Ghana and many other colleges, so it is no stranger to students - making Accra the perfect city to study abroad. It is also one of Africa’s safest cities with with a warm, hospitable community that is always welcoming to new guests, making Acra feel like home for students from all over the world.

During your time in Accra, you can visit the numerous historical landmarks such as Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s Mausoleum or the National Museum, or spend your day at the lively markets hunting for beautiful hand made crafts of all sorts — make sure you leave room in your suitcase for a lot of souvenirs! If you’re exhausted from having too much fun all week and are looking to spend your day relaxing, Accra has an easy access to many exotic beaches that are only minutes away! Ghana is a tropical country, allowing students to experience the beautiful beaches regardless of the time of year they decide to study abroad. HELLO TAN LINES, bring on the sunshine!

Depending on how long you commit to studying in Accra, it can keep you busy for your entire trip; but, if you have the time, you can also take advantage of the numerous other attractions Ghana has to offer. Canopy walks in Kakum National Park, dips in Volta Lake, or animal-spotting in Mole National Park are just a FEW of the many gotta-do-it activities around.

GMT - Ghana Man Time: Things take time. Students should be prepared that some things that may take 20 minutes in their home country make take a couple hours in Accra as that is the way of life. 

So many options: As you should be able to already tell, Accra has an array of programs for students to elect. Be picky! Not all programs are made for everyone. Pick the one that fits you and your needs.

Leave your mobile at home - There are no monthly contracts, you can simply purchase a prepaid phone and use that as your main moe of communication. Rates fluctuate somewhat, but outgoing texts to North America usually hover around 10 cents per message, while outgoing calls are 10 to 15 cents per minute. All incoming calls and texts to your Ghanaian mobile phone will be free though. 

Don’t be afraid to say yes to new experiences - This is your time to really experience a new culture and make new friends! Studying abroad is your perfect opportunity to try all the things you have always been too scared to do, or never had the time for. Your time abroad is YOUR time to experience it all. Brush up on your Twi and pack your bags because Accra is waiting for you!

If you’re still not sure that this perfect place can really exist, read our comprehensive guide on studying in Ghana.