Overview

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a strong and complex university that seeks to reflect the society in which it is based in terms of institutional values, research interests, and demographics. UKZN currently has five campuses under its direction. 

Close to numerous game preserves and the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains, the Pietermaritzburg (PMB) campus of UKZN was the former University of Natal. Particularly attractive academic opportunities are in African studies, South African topics, and media studies, but a wide range of programs are available. The campus is about one hour by car from the Indian Ocean and the coastal city of Durban. Pietermaritzburg is distinguished by its pleasant small-city atmosphere, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and lush forested hills and valleys.

Students attend classes with international and South African students.

Course Opportunities

This program offers a full range of courses in the arts and humanities; fine arts, including studio art and dramatic art; the natural sciences, environmental sciences, botany, zoology, and other disciplines related to environmental, wildlife, and agricultural sciences; social sciences, especially African studies, Zulu language and culture, political science and history, and rural sociology; communication and media; and philosophy, ethics studies, and religion.

Use the following resources to learn about courses on EAP:

• EAP Program Search provides information on general areas of study.
• Host institution online catalogs or course listings:
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • Course handbooks
• MyEAP Course Catalog lists courses previously taken by UC students. Additional courses may be available and not all courses may still be offered. Since courses in new programs have not yet been taken for credit, they may not appear in the MyEAP Course Catalog.

Units

You are required to take a full-time course of study while abroad; 21 UC quarter units per semester are required, which is usually three or four courses.

Language of Instruction

English

Language Study

None

Internships, Research, and Independent Study

Internships and independent study for academic credit may be possible in this program.

Community service opportunities are also available through the International Student Exchange Office. You may enroll in an upper-division political science class titled Policy Issues and Community Service, which combines classroom learning with community service in various organizations and government departments, including:

• Association for Rural Advancement
• AIDS Training
• Centre for Criminal Justice
• Natal Parks Board
• Midlands Women's Group
• Programme for Survivors of Violence
• Society for the Prevention of Cruelty Against Animals
• Tatham Art Gallery

If you are interested in taking this course, obtain an application from the instructor after arrival.

Arrangements for all opportunities are generally made at the EAP Study Center after arrival, and predeparture preparation may be required.

Duration

Go to the Participants section to see current or past calendars.

Fall: mid-July to late November
Spring: late January to mid-June
Year: late January to late November

You are encouraged to extend your EAP participation in South Africa.

Housing

EAP students live on campus in a dormitory with international and South African students. Living off campus is not permitted.

On-site Support

EAP students are supported by UC's network of EAP offices at every UC campus and partnerships with EAP host universities throughout the world. Host university faculty members administer EAP programs in South Africa and serve as EAP liaisons; these liaisons advise UC students on academic matters. The International Student Exchange office at UKZN provides assistance with housing, information on cultural events, and additional support.

See the EAP Program Guide (PDF) for program-specific details about host institutions, program structure, and courses; academic culture and conduct; internships, research, & independent study; units, exams, and grades; orientation; housing; and information about the intensive language program (if applicable).

Host Institutions

• University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg

Estimated Cost

Participation in EAP is a great value! The cost of EAP programs is typically less than that of non-UC study abroad programs. The dollar figures listed in the chart represent: 1) the amount of the fees that are paid directly to EAP in the current year, and 2) an estimate of the amount needed to cover personal living expenses in this location. Personal travel and entertainment are not included here.

Don't forget that you take your financial aid with you and the amount of your financial aid package will be based on the estimated TOTAL COST of this experience, as it is estimated below.

These expenses are estimated for 2009-10. Amounts will vary for 2010-11 participation due to proposed changes to UC fees, exchange rate fluctuation, etc. For a more detailed breakdown of 2009-10 payment information, visit the Participants Portal and select the appropriate program.

Here’s what is included in the estimate:

• Predeparture expenses (visa, etc.)
• Round-trip transportation from California
• UC fees
• Tuition at partner institution
• Accident and medical insurance
• On-site orientation
• Room and board
• Program activities
• Books and other incidental expenses
• Automatic transfer of credits and grades to your UC transcript

Estimated EAP Costs*

Option	Cost
* Based on most recent costs for 2009-2010 to the nearest $100.
Fall	$11,300
Spring	$13,200
Year	$23,400

Application Requirements

Class Level

Junior, senior, graduate

Language Prerequisite

None

GPA

2.85 cumulative GPA at the time of application and maintained through the end of the last term prior to departure. No exceptions. Graduate students must have a 3.0 GPA.

Other

Successful completion of a course in Africa-related studies (history, politics, or sociology preferred) prior to departure

Minimum Criteria

All applicants must also have:

• Serious academic goals and a clear plan for integrating EAP studies into the student’s UC degree program
• Social and cross-cultural sensitivity; maturity; ability to adapt successfully to a different environment and a new education system; ability to assess and exhibit appropriate behavior in a variety of situations
• A willingness to abide by program regulations
• An endorsement by the Campus EAP Selection Committee and completion of all campus-specific requirements (an interview may be required)

These are minimum program requirements only and do not guarantee selection. The Campus EAP Office determines selection. The final admission decision is made by the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Deadlines

Application deadlines and information on the application process are available through your Campus EAP Office. Supplemental predeparture materials will be required for many programs, including, but not limited to, host institution applications, visa and housing applications, medical clearances, etc.

For participation in the program, you must meet all deadlines and submit complete application materials.

Visit your Campus EAP Office for more information:

• UC Berkeley
• UC Davis
• UC Irvine
• UC Los Angeles
• UC Merced
• UC Riverside
• UC San Diego
• UC Santa Barbara
• UC Santa Cruz