Kenya Study Tour
Explore sustainable practices in Kenya, East Africa
About the Program
The Kenya Study Tour offers a unique opportunity to observe Kenyan initiatives that align with several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Through this program, you will gain insights into the practical application of science across various facets of Kenyan life, spanning industry, agriculture and daily routines.
Trip Information
Why Study in Kenya?
Participate in hands-on experiential activities to deepen your scientific knowledge! Studying in Kenya will allow you to develop a global perspective on sustainability, something that is invaluable in our ever-connected world. Additionally, you will have the life-changing opportunity to immerse yourself in African culture and gain a deeper understanding of its rich heritage.
Where You’ll Be Staying
You will be primarily staying in the capital of Kenya, Nairobi, in the Swiss-Belinn hotel. Nairobi will act as your central hub for most of the study tour, with frequent travel just outside the city for your course activities. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to attend a 3-day safari trip to the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Activities While Abroad
During your time in Kenya, you will visit various sites where sustainability practices are being actioned to gain a broader understanding of their applications. This includes a national reserve, national museum, tea and coffee farms, non-governmental and non-profit organizations, animal orphanages, a tea factory, a hospital, a water institute and a centre for cultural resource preservation.
Course
The Kenya Study Tour is offered every second year and includes a three-week expedition to Kenya in the Spring Term. Students need to apply to participate. Successful applicants will be enrolled in the course listed below:
Spring, May 3-week course
Learn about and experience how science has been applied in many aspects of the Kenyan population, from industry to farming to daily life. Course assignments will have you reflect on and think critically about sustainable practices observed during the course through writing assignments, an oral presentation and daily journal summaries.
Prerequisite: AUIDS 101 (First-Year Seminar) or 2nd-year standing and by consent of the instructor based on successful completion of the selection process.
costs + supplies
A Mandatory Instructional Support (MIS) fee will be charged in addition to regular tuition. The MIS fee for 2026 is estimated between $4,700 - $5,200.
Included in MIS fee:
- Ground transportation in Kenya
- Trip Cancellation Insurance
- Accommodation (including breakfast and dinner)
- Park entry visas in Kenya
NOT included in MIS fee:
- Transportation to and from the Edmonton International Airport
- Return airfare from Edmonton International Airport to Kenya
- Kenya entry visa
- Daily lunch
- Items on the supplies checklist
Funding is also available for students to apply for through Education Abroad Awards. Students participating in the Kenya Study Tour may be eligible to receive up to $500.
Supplies
You will be responsible for the following items at your own expense.
Supplies Checklist:
- Passport (valid at least six months after the completion of the program)
- Student ID
- Flights (approximately $2,000)
- Travel immunizations as recommended by a public health nurse
- Travel health insurance
- Appropriate clothing and footwear (a complete packing list is provided before departure)
- Typical course supplies
- Pocket money (Kenya Shillings)
Important Dates
| Applications Open | |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Letters Distributed | Ongoing |
| Deposit ($500) | November 5, 2025 |
| First Payment ($500) | January 5, 2026 |
| Second Payment ($2,000) | March 5, 2026 |
| Final Payment (balance) | April 10, 2026 |
| Departure date | May 5, 2026 |
| Return date | May 27, 2026 |
Contact the Kenya Study Tour team
Questions about studying in Kenya? Contact an advisor or connect with the course instructor:
— Professor, Chemistry
Email: jkariuki@ualberta.ca