Accra, Ghana at dusk

Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, is celebrated as Africa's "Gold Coast," known for its rich natural resources, peaceful political history, and status as a burgeoning hub for social innovation and entrepreneurial leadership. This dynamic city serves as an exceptional location for internships, offering participants the opportunity to work with local companies on projects centered around Social Innovation and Entrepreneurial Leadership in Africa. With its unique blend of traditional Ghanaian culture and a rapidly growing modern economy, Accra provides a strategic environment for students eager to develop emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and professional leadership skills. Internships are conducted in a hybrid format, beginning with a week of virtual engagement and followed by a three-week immersive experience in-country. This program offers a comprehensive balance of career development and unforgettable cultural discovery, from visiting the Cape Coast Castle to exploring the lush rainforests of Kakum National Park.

"Taking on the responsibility of an internship in a foreign country is unlike any other challenge but will provide the reward of learning."  - Junior, Public Relations Major

2026 Summer Program Dates

Arrive:

Tue, June 16th, 2026

Depart:

Sat, July 18th, 2026

Program Provider:

Hilltop Global Group

Apply By:

Sat, Mar 14th, 2026

How to Apply

Application deadline is Saturday, March 14, 2026. Applicants are selected, upon successful interview, until program is full. Please check out the full program timeline.

Info Sheet  

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Yes, you can afford it! You may be eligible for a scholarship or to use your financial aid. All students accepted into the program are eligible to apply.

How to Pay

Learn More

Visit Hilltop Global Group's main website for the 2026 Ghana Internship Program for more info.

Link

Program Fees

Category Domestic Students International Students
Program Fee (based on enrollment of one participant) $4,750 $4,750
SMCCCD Tuition $0 (San Mateo County Residents) $422 per unit

For more detailed information about program fee inclusions, view the Program Info Sheet  .

Note: 3 weeks of the program will be in the country, and a combined week on the front and back end will be for program orientation and reflections.

What's included?

  1. Accommodation
  2. Daily breakfast
  3. Opening and farewell dinners
  4. Select lunches and dinners as specified in the itinerary
  5. Entrance fees to attractions in the itinerary
  6. Transport credit for travel to internship sites
  7. Transportation to and from scheduled cultural visits and weekend attractions in the itinerary
  8. Transportation to and from the airport

What's not included?

  1. Visa Services
  2. Self-arranged tours and excursions

Withdrawal/Cancellation Policy

  • Withdrawal on or before: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
    • A $250 processing fee is applied
  • Withdrawal after Wednesday, March 18, 2026 but on or before Saturday, May 2, 2026
    • 50% cancellation fee is applied
  • Withdrawal after: Saturday, May 2, 2026
    • No refund. Certain suppliers have terms and conditions different from what's listed above, and you will be charged accordingly.

Program Eligibility

  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Have a cumulative GPA of 2.25 or higher (please note that certain majors may require a higher GPA; please inquire during your advising appointment)
  • Have completed a minimum of 30 units of college level coursework prior to program
  • It is your responsibility to obtain any necessary travel documentation for your program destination (i.e. passport, visa, etc). Your internship provider (EUSA) works with each student to complete visa paperwork as needed. This may require you to pay fees of up to a few hundred dollars depending on the type of paperwork required.

More Information or Questions?

SMCCCD Study Abroad Program 
Email: studyabroad@smccd.edu 
Phone: 650-738-7098

About the program Provider Hilltop Global Group

Hilltop Global Group (Hilltop) is an education consulting firm and destination management company. Headquartered in Washington DC, Hilltop primarily facilitates turnkey study abroad & experiential learning trips to multiple destinations in Africa and helps Universities expand their international program footprint by leveraging our extensive personal & professional networks.