SIT Program: History and Cultures of the African Diaspora in Cape Coast Ghana

Please be advised that the information below is preliminary information. Check back often for more details or stop by the Education Abroad Office to speak with an advisor about the program.

SIT Experience

SIT study abroad is the pioneer of experiential, field-based study abroad with many programs in developing countries that deal with issues such as Social Justice, Peace and Conflict Studies, Development Studies and Multicultural Studies. SIT uses a field-based approach where traditional academics are combined into field based learning. Small seminars and discussions with academics, policymakers, and field professionals offer a comprehensive perspective of local, regional, and global issues.

During the program in Ghana students will gain a deeper understanding of West Africa's links to and impact on the world through this program exploring the African Diaspora. Ghana served as the point of departure for many West Africans who have migrated--voluntarily and involuntarily-- to points around the globe. Through field and classroom instruction, students examine the history and culture of West Africa and the interwoven influence of the Atlantic Slave Trade.

Prerequisites

Have completed at least one year of course work at SU, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5, are in good academic standing at SU.

Approved participants maintain enrollment at Seattle University, pay tuition and study abroad program fees directly to Seattle University. Room and board fees are paid by the student to the program. The university maintains all financial aid including institutional scholarships.

Click here for Seattle University eligibility requirements.

Academics

Students will take a language course in Fante with emphasis on speaking and comprehension. An interdisciplinary course conducted in English will focus on African Diaspora studies from a Ghanaian perspective with lectures on Ghanaian culture and society and African Diaspora Studies. It also will include Educational Excursions to various historic sites within Ghana. Students also will go on a weeklong excursion from Ghana to the nearby country of Benin that enables students to contrast the two nations' historical roles in the slave trade and their contemporary roles in the Diaspora. Students also will have a Field Study Seminar and an Independent Study Project which last for four weeks.

Program Evaluation will consist of an oral and written presentation of the Independent Study Project, a final language assessment, and overall program synthesis and assessment.

This program is on the semester system so credit transfer is 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits

Housing

Students will have a five week homestay in Cape Coast and a one week rural visit in Komenda. Other accommodations during the program will include hostels, private homes, educational institutions, or small hotels.

Application

Complete the online Horizons application as directed here. Once accepted to the program, students will be required to complete additional paperwork for admission into the CIEE Program at the University of Ghana.

Deadlines: Click here for deadlines.