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Language Requirement:	None
Courses Taught in:	English
Field of Study:	Africana Studies, Anthropology, Education, History, International Studies, Political Science, Sociology
GPA Requirement:	2.0
NC State Students Only:	No
Type of Enrollment:	Group

Program Description:
Contact a Program Ambassador to find out more information about this program

 Explore history and culture in West Africa and the origins of the Black experience in America! Home stays, introductory instruction in an African language and service learning opportunities are all part of the experience.

The Program

This intensive four-week summer program in West Africa is offered through the Africana Studies Program at NC State University. This program is open to any person wishing to participate and is not limited to students from NCSU. The major goal of this program is to prepare students for the 21st century by enabling them to develop and refine their skills in cultural awareness, intercultural adjustment, critical observation, and research. To this end, the program is designed to accomplish the following objectives:

• Provide students with an international educational experience that will enhance intercultural sensitivity and promote an awareness of global issues.
• Immerse students in an intensive study of West African culture. 
• Provide an opportunity for students to take courses that contribute to the Africana, African-American, and African/Black Studies curricula. 
• Offer a dynamic and related set of courses in the humanities and social sciences.
• Provide an opportunities for students to gain first-hand knowledge of West African life through host family stays and visits to places of historical and cultural significance.

For program cost information, see the above Summer Budget Sheet. Early application is advisable for all NC State Summer Programs.

The Location

Ghana is one of the friendliest and most welcoming of West African nations - economically stable and multi-ethnic with a democratic government. Both English and the Ghanaian language Twi are official languages. While this is true, there are more than 52 native tongues and hundreds of dialects in this country that offer a rich cultural heritage and many new experiences.

Ghana was the first African nation south of the Sahara to win independence from colonial rule. Students will discover this past history as well as experience the diversity of contemporary Ghanaian life.

Academics

Students will take two academic courses in Africana Studies and receive six credit hours from NC State University. "African Culture and Society" and "Exploring the Black Atlantic" are the courses offered.

Co-curricular lectures and seminars by Ghanaian scholars will introduce students to important information on Ghana's history politics and economy. As an integral component of the program, all students will receive instruction in the "Twi" (Akan) language. Courses will be taught by faculty from NC State and from the University of Ghana at Legon.

Most classes will be held at the University of Ghana at Legon in Accra. Course format will include classroom lectures supplemented by trips to various sites throughout the country, cultural performances, and arts demonstrations. Weekly reflection discussions will provide the opportunity for students to integrate program experiences with their individual academic and personal goals. In addition to course readings, small group discussions, and occasional quizzes, students will be responsible for one major project and presentation.

Accommodations

All participants will live with local Ghanaian families for two weeks of the program. This cultural immersion experience is a vital component of this program.

The remainder of the time is divided between hotels and the International Student Hostel on the campus of the University of Ghana at Legon. Program cost includes two meals per day (breakfast and lunch or dinner).

Flight Information

The Faculty Director will notify students of the required arrival date and time. Transportation will be arranged in Ghana for students, so it is highly recommended students arrive when requested.

Additionally, the Director will reserve seats on a specific flight, which students are encouraged to book. However, students will be required to make any deposits/payments directly to the travel agent. Students may also choose to make their own arrival arrangements.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is generally available to help qualified NC State students meet the expenses of NC State study abroad programs. Students from other institutions should contact their home institution study abroad and financial aid offices for information. For additional funding, NC State students should consider applying for a study abroad scholarship from the Study Abroad Office.

Resident Faculty

The Ghana Humanities Program is led by NC State faculty Craig C. Brookins, Ph.D., from Africana Studies and the Department of Psychology.

For further information contact:
Craig_Brookins@ncsu.edu
919-515-7518