Make progress toward your degree by completing your minor and General Education requirements through an exciting experience abroad in Africa, the cradle of humankind. Africa is a fascinating and fast-changing continent; spending some time there will enrich your personal and academic experience. Although a study abroad in African countries is certainly preferable as the only true first-hand experience of African cultures and societies, it is worth noting that several leading research universities in Europe offer excellent African Studies programs as well. There are also opportunities to study the African Diaspora in the Caribbean.

African/African American Studies Study Abroad Programs

Academic Advice

First Year Students

The earliest you can go abroad is the summer of your first year.
Students may fulfill General Education Foundations and/or Issues requirements abroad.

Sophomore & Upperclassmen Students

• No restrictions have been specified by the African & African-American Studies program. 
   
• Students can take courses that satisfy some requirements in their AAA minor or the General Education program. Be sure to begin planning at least six months in advance.
   
• Students do not need to speak a foreign language in order to study in a country where English is not the official language. The African & African-American Studies program also recommends exploring several study abroad programs in English-speaking countries: Ghana, South Africa, and Botswana.
   
• The African & African-American Studies program has a very strong cultural component. There is no better way to study African societies and to explore the African roots of African-American culture than by spending one or several semesters in Africa.
   
• Consider fulfilling your Issues General Education requirement abroad. Find out how!
• Students interested in combining their study abroad experience with an internship, or those looking to focus solely on an internship, have many options. Customized internships are available in a few locations through programs such as ELAP and World Endeavors 
   
• Courses will be reviewed on a case by case basis through the course equivalency process.

Keep in Mind

• Once you have selected a program to be sure to meet with your adviser at least three months before departing for your program.
• Be sure to explore both GVSU and External options by browsing the Program Suggestions below. Students are not limited to GVSU study abroad programs.
• There are several opportunities to intern and or volunteer while abroad.
• Students can fulfill the General Education Foundation requirements abroad as well as their General Education Issues requirement (reflection paper required). If you take at least 3 credits abroad, your Global Perspectives General Education requirement will automatically be fulfilled.

To determine the GVSU course equivalencies for courses taken abroad, please view the “How to Request Course Equivalencies” page. For more information contact Department Contact below.

Jack Mangala
101 Lake Ontario Hall
[email protected]