Language Requirement: None
Academic Standing by Program Start: Sophomore
Location: Africa, Tanzania
GPA: 2.5

Program Overview

This immersive 5-week summer program offers University of Oregon students a transformative experience, exploring social justice, human rights, race, ethnicity, and identity in Tanzania. Hosted at the Training Center for Development Cooperation (TCDC) in Arusha, students will earn 8 credits through academic courses and hands-on fieldwork.

You will engage with local NGOs and other organizations on critical topics in global development, legal advocacy, and ethnic diversity. The curriculum examines race, ethnicity, and identity, particularly within East African and diasporic contexts, deepening students' understanding of cultural diversity and shared global challenges.

Students will participate in community service, interactive workshops with local leaders, and meaningful exchanges with Tanzanian youth. You will also have a unique opportunity to stay as a group at the United African Alliance Community Center to further learn from local leaders and immerse yourself in local culture through workshops on topics such as African art, community service projects, and dialogue sessions. Excursions to Tarangire National Park and a hike to the first camp on Mount Kilimanjaro provide adventure and context, enriching the overall experience. 

Dates and Deadlines

 
TermYearDeadlineArrival DateDeparture Date
Summer2025 03/1506/2708/01

Academic Details

Academic Coursework

Two required courses will be offered to all program participants (8 credits total).

Development and Human Rights in East Africa(4 credits): Satisfies GLBL 445/545: Development and Social Change in sub-Saharan Africa AND Legal Studies Campus Partner Elective credits 

This four-credit course offers an overview of human rights issues in Tanzania and the broader East African context, focusing on legal frameworks, development challenges, and indigenous rights. Taught by Dr. Ana Haule, Executive Director and Law Faculty at the TCDC.

Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Race, Ethnicity, and Identity(4 credits): Satisfies GLBL 345: Africa Today: Issues and Concerns OR GLBL 415/515: The Global Story of Race AND Legal Studies Campus Partner Elective credits 

This four-credit course offers an examination of African and diasporic identities, emphasizingTanzanian ethnic diversity, historical legacies of colonization, and contemporary race relations. Taught by Dr. Irene Mkini, Gender and Development expert and Faculty at the TCDC.

Course Equivalencies

UO students: please refer to the UO Course Equivalency Process and the UO Office of the Registrar Course Equivalency Database.

Non-UO students: Actual credit awarded is determined by the relevant department at your university in consultation with the study abroad office. Check with your study abroad advisor for more information.

Faculty and Staff

Resident Director

Your resident director in Tanzania will be Ryan Lorenz. Ryan brings extensive experience and a deep connection to the region. A former Peace Corps volunteer in Kenya during the 1980s, Ryan has been working with communities in northern Tanzania since 1992. For over 30 years, Ryan has worked in study abroad program development delivering exceptional, student-focused experiences in multiple countries.

Ryan will be the on-site point person for the duration of the program, providing support including pick-up and drop-off of students at the local airport in Arusha, accompanying the group on excursions, as well as helping students with cultural adjustment and guiding them through the program experience. Ryan’s mission is to elevate your learning and cultural exchange through meaningful experiences. 

Housing Description

Hostel accommodation on the TCDC campus, includes:

  • Shared bedrooms
  • Access to shared living area and bathrooms
  • Access to laundry facilities
  • Bed linens and towels
  • Cleaning service
  • Access to Wi-Fi
  • Daily breakfast provided

You will also have access to TCDC campus amenities such as:

  • Restaurant, café and bar
  • Social spaces
  • Lush gardens and peaceful walks
  • Multiple visitor groups at times promoting knowledge sharing and friendships
  • Computer lab
  • Indoor and outdoor meeting space and classrooms
  • Library resources