Undergraduate
The undergraduate certificate requires a total of 6 courses (18 credit hours) and proficiency in one of the following foreign languages: Arabic, French, Portuguese, Spanish, or Swahili. Students may also fulfill the language requirement by completing at least beginner level in any language in addition to one year of study in an indigenous African language. Study abroad in Africa is strongly encouraged, but not required.
Please click here to access the Undergraduate Certificate registration form.
Core Courses
Students must successfully complete the following four required courses:
- HIST-111 or HIST-112: History of Africa I or II
Africa I and II offer a better understanding of the diverse and complex histories of various geographical regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and the interaction of African communities with the global economy. - ANTH-240: African Cultural Modernities
This course looks at challenges and cultural creativity in African societies, tracking how culture changes in relationship to fundamental norms and principles as Africans try to achieve what they see as a desirable “modernity.” - INAF-357: African Politics and Government
This course focuses on the diversity and the complexity of African politics across the continent. We contextualize the study of African politics within broader themes of democracy and development by focusing on similarities and differences among the countries and across various themes. Special consideration is given to public opinion in Africa and what it tells us about political preferences, political organizing and the future of democracy. - INAF-348-01 or -02: African Studies Capstone Course or Senior Thesis Seminar
Electives
Students complete at least two elective courses. Courses include, but are not limited to (see African Studies Assistant Director for complete course listing): African Cultures in the Americas, Memory and Orality in African Literature, African Self-Perceptions, History of Southern Africa, African Societies after Slavery, Culture and Politics of African Cities, History of Islam in Africa, Beginners Swahili I, Beginners Swahili II, Intermediate Swahili I, Intermediate Swahili II, Peace & Conflict in East Africa, US-African Relations, Africa, Religious Organization and Experience, Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict: Africa, Politics and Business in Developing Countries, African Military Conflict and Resolution, African Political Economy, African Development, African Culture and Foreign Policy, African Politics and the Novel, Financing Development in Africa, AIDS In Africa, Natural Resources: Africa & Me, Women and Politics in Africa.
Capstone Course
The Capstone Course allows students to receive a certificate/minor in African Studies by completing a 15-20 page research paper, in a small-group tutorial setting.
This course explores the representations of Africa and African peoples from various perspectives, focusing primarily on literature and film. The course provides a context for thinking about the totality of your study of Africa at Georgetown, offering you the opportunity to reflect on distinctly African themes, but in the context of your major field of study. It is structured so as to be a thoughtful conclusion to your undergraduate study and a bridge to your future work and study. Students view at least one film per week; complete a variety of readings of works of fiction by African authors; as well as complete an in-depth research study on a topic related to their major or concentration. The outstanding paper each year receives the Mopani Award, which is presented at the African Studies Program as part of Commencement Weekend.
Language Proficiency
Proficiency in Arabic, French, Portuguese, Spanish, or Swahili. Students may also fulfill the language requirement by completing at least beginner level in any language and one year of study of an indigenous African language.
Senior Thesis Seminar
Students with a GPA of at least 3.2 overall and 3.4 in African Studies courses can apply for the Senior Thesis Seminar. The senior thesis is a unique opportunity that allows students to explore and research a topic of their own choosing. The thesis also affords a one-on-one tutorial experience, and the ability to develop arguments and apply theories and methodologies that you have learned in previous courses.
Thesis applicants are required to have a strong academic record, good writing skills, and a well-thought out proposal. Students select a faculty member as their thesis advisor, who serve as a second reader and provide guidance throughout the semester. Upon completion, seniors will make a formal presentation of their research at the annual Senior Thesis Colloquium held in late April. The most outstanding paper each year is awarded with the Africa Prize, which is presented at the Tropaia Ceremony of SFS.