Certificate Requirements
One required core course (3 credits) from AFRCNA 0127 - INTRODUCTION TO AFRICA , AFRCNA 0586 - EARLY AFRICAN CIVILIZATIONS , ANTH 1778 - CULTURES OF AFRICA , HIST 0795 - HISTORY OF AFRICA BEFORE 1800 , or HIST 1796 - HISTORY OF AFRICA SINCE 1800
Four elective courses (12 credits) selected from those on the course list that contain at least 25% African content
Language proficiency: a minimum of two years of study (four terms) of either an indigenous African language (Swahili, Amharic or Arabic) or a European language (other than English) relevant to African studies as a consequence of Africa’s historical experience (French, Portuguese, German or Spanish)
Capstone paper: This is the culmination of the student’s learning experience and clearly demonstrates in-depth knowledge of African studies issues in at least one academic discipline. The capstone must be an assignment submitted as part of coursework, such as a final term paper and the student must have received a B or higher grade on the paper. It must be submitted to the African Studies Program no later than the last semester before graduation.
Presentation: The student will present the culmination of their African Studies Certificate through sharing about their capstone or African Studies experiences in a mini-forum to students, friends and family. This can take place in December or April before the graduation ceremony.
GPA in African Studies Courses should be 2.5 or higher.
Academic Opportunities
Study Abroad and Internships
Studying abroad is not required but it is highly encouraged. Students can earn up to 15 credits towards the certificate by studying abroad in Africa. Alternatively, there are several internship opportunities locally and in Africa. Meet with the academic advisor to learn about scholarships and internships available to you!
Professional Development Opportunities
The African Studies Program offers two student internships every semester where students are given full exposure to the field of African Studies and can earn 3 credits for their academic internship. Students work on skills such as networking, public speaking, communications, media relations, critical thinking, and knowledge of Africa. An African Studies internship is a great way for students to build their resume and get real life experience working for a university.
Students enrolled in the certificate program have the opportunity to visit Washington DC on an international career search before they graduate! Contact the academic advisor for details.
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