Our Summer Health Studies Program offers a wider range of health-related topics, including endemic diseases and nutrition, as well as courses that focus on the business and social impacts of health care in Southern Africa. Of those courses, you will enroll in two three-credit options for a total of six credits.
Summer - Health Studies
At a Glance
Program Dates:
- Summer 2026: June 08 - July 29
Credits:
Estimated Cost:
Visa Required:
Housing:
Language of Instruction:
Language Prerequisites:
About the Program
Program Advisor
Zhanè Vanderbilt
Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
About the Destination
Why Cape Town?
Surrounded by mountains and the sea near the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town is not only one of the world’s most beautiful cities, but also an ideal location to experience the complex socio-economic health care challenges of a multi-cultural developing country with great disparities.
The Student Experience
Mid-Semester Break: Kruger National Park & Johannesburg
IES Abroad facilitated trip to Kruger National Park & Johannesburg
Program Dates
Summer 2026
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Academics
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible, which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. Our Summer Health Studies Program offers a wide range of health-related topics, including endemic diseases and nutrition, as well as courses that focus on the business and social impacts of health care in Southern Africa.
There will be opportunities to gain additional exposure to South Africa’s mixture of public and private health facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and health-related NGOs. Past organizations have included:
- False Bay Hospital
- Green Point Community Health Centre
- Life Vincent Palotti Hospital
- Tibb Treatment Centre
Courses
You will enroll in two courses for a total of 6 credits.
NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.
IES Abroad Courses
Health Sciences (1)
| Course name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| SO/HE 347 - Public Health Dynamics in Southern Africa | Fall, Spring, Summer | English | 3 |
Requirements
- 18 years of age
- In good standing at your home school
- 2.5 or better GPA on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- Sophomore, junior, or senior standing when program begins. Undergraduate candidates only.
About the IES Abroad Center
The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.
The IES Abroad Cape Town Center is conveniently located near the University of Cape Town on the slope of the well-hiked Devil’s Peak. Whether you’re attending a guest lecture or studying in the student lounge, the Center is your study abroad hub.
IES Abroad Cape Town Staff
Housing
Residence Hall
Live in a private residence hall with IES Abroad, South African, and other international students. Students live in a furnished single room with a kitchenette, private bathroom, and a digital safe is provided. Living spaces are shared, and there is a gym on site. Internet access is available. Meals are not included.
An IES Abroad Resident Assistant lives in or by your residence and can serve as a great resource for tips on integrating into the local culture.
Field Trips
Even though your adventure starts in Cape Town, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Program Cost
Summer 2026
$7.9 Million in Scholarships & Aid
We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.
Orientation
Health & Safety
With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Apply for your passport today!
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identity Resources
Student Ambassadors
No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.
Related Programs
The Student Experience
Segovia, Valencia, and the Night I Figured Out What Makes Me Happy
This post covers two of the program's bigger trips, a day trip to Segovia built around Roman and medieval history, and a multi-day trip to Valencia full of...
Mid-Semester Break: Kruger National Park & Johannesburg
IES Abroad facilitated trip to Kruger National Park & Johannesburg
A Normal Weekday in Madrid: Metro, Kebabs, and Two Very Different Classes
This post walks through a typical weekday in Madrid, from breakfast and the metro commute to two very different classes, lunch with friends, and late nights out...
How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.