African and African-American Studies Program

The African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the histories, cultures, and contemporary issues related to Africa and the African diaspora. This program provides students with a deep understanding of the diverse experiences and vibrant cultures of African peoples and communities across the globe, fostering critical analysis of social, political, economic, and artistic developments in these regions. Through a wide variety of courses, students examine topics such as African history, literature, music, art, politics, and social movements, as well as the transatlantic connections that have shaped the African-American experience. The program encourages engagement with both historical perspectives and contemporary debates, preparing students for careers in academia, public service, arts and media, international development, and more. Students may have opportunities to participate in research projects, cultural events, and study abroad programs that deepen their understanding and appreciation of African and African-American cultures. The department values both scholarly rigor and the cultivation of a nuanced understanding of identity, diversity, and social justice. With a commitment to fostering inclusive and informed perspectives, the African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth equips students to become thoughtful and engaged global citizens, aware of the rich histories that inform current realities and inspired to contribute to positive change.

The African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum designed to explore the diverse histories, cultures, and social dynamics of Africa and the African diaspora. The program engages students with a broad range of topics, including the history and politics of African nations, the development of African-American culture and identity, and the contributions of African-descended peoples to global civilization. Through coursework that combines history, literature, political science, anthropology, and art, students gain a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between tradition and modernity, colonialism and independence, oppression and empowerment.

The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, encouraging students to examine issues such as racial identity, social justice, human rights, and economic development within the context of African and African-American experiences. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, internships, and study abroad programs that immerse them directly in African and African-American communities, fostering a deeper appreciation and firsthand knowledge of the topics studied.

Faculty members in the program are experts in their fields, dedicated to teaching and mentoring students through small seminars, lectures, and collaborative projects. The program also hosts events, speaker series, and cultural activities that celebrate African and African-American heritage, fostering an inclusive academic community. Graduates of the program use their education to pursue careers in academia, public policy, social justice advocacy, journalism, international development, and more. Overall, the African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth aims to produce informed, engaged citizens who are prepared to contribute thoughtfully to discussions about race, history, and global interconnections.

The African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster an understanding of the histories, cultures, and social dynamics of African and African-descended peoples. students are required to complete a major consisting of a minimum of 10 courses, including at least two courses at the 100-level and a senior seminar focusing on advanced research and analysis. foundational courses cover topics such as the history and politics of African nations, the African diaspora in the Americas, and contemporary issues facing African and African-American communities. students must also engage in interdisciplinary coursework, incorporating disciplines such as anthropology, history, literature, and sociology to gain diverse perspectives.

Additionally, the program encourages students to participate in experiential learning opportunities, including study-abroad programs, internships, and community engagement projects, which are highly recommended to deepen experiential understanding of the subject matter. A senior capstone project or thesis is typically required, allowing students to conduct original research under faculty supervision. In order to fulfill requirements, students should demonstrate proficiency in relevant languages, such as African languages or historical languages pertinent to their research topics, which can be completed through language courses or external proficiency assessments.

Elective courses broaden understanding of specific regions, time periods, or thematic issues, such as Pan-Africanism, race and identity, gender studies, or economic development within African contexts. The program also emphasizes the development of research and analytical skills, encouraging students to critically engage with primary and secondary sources. Overall, the program aims to produce graduates with a well-rounded knowledge of African and African-American studies, capable of contributing to academic, policy, or community-based initiatives related to these fields.

Financing for the African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth College is primarily provided through the university’s standard financial aid policies, which include need-based grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and loans. Dartmouth College commits to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring that financial circumstances do not impede access to the program. Undergraduate students enrolled in the African and African-American Studies Program can apply for need-based financial aid through Dartmouth’s Office of Financial Aid, which assesses each applicant’s financial situation and awards aid accordingly.

The college's financial aid packages are designed to cover tuition, and often extend to housing, books, and other educational expenses, depending on each student's financial profile. For students from low-income backgrounds, Dartmouth offers substantial scholarship aid that reduces or eliminates the need for student loans, promoting a debt-free graduation. Additionally, students in the program may have access to specialized funding opportunities such as research grants, conference travel stipends, and summer research stipends that enable them to pursue scholarly activities related to African and African-American Studies.

Dartmouth also encourages and supports students in obtaining external scholarships and fellowships, which can provide additional financial resources. The college’s dedicated Office of Corporate and Foundation Relations assists students in identifying external funding sources relevant to their academic pursuits. Work opportunities, including part-time positions on campus, further supplement students’ financial support.

In terms of graduate funding, if Dartmouth offers graduate programs or certificates associated with African and African-American Studies, students typically qualify for federal financial aid programs such as Stafford Loans, and may be eligible for departmental fellowships or assistantships. These opportunities provide tuition remission and stipends to support students’ academic and research activities.

Overall, Dartmouth College ensures that financing is accessible to all students interested in studying African and African-American Studies by providing comprehensive financial aid packages, outreach to external funding sources, and supportive policies aimed at minimizing financial barriers to education.

The African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth College is an interdisciplinary academic program dedicated to exploring the histories, cultures, and contemporary issues related to Africa and people of African descent worldwide. The program aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of the diverse experiences, traditions, and contributions of African and African-American communities through courses that integrate perspectives from history, literature, sociology, political science, anthropology, and more. Students enrolled in the program have opportunities to engage with a wide range of topics, including the transatlantic slave trade, diaspora communities, postcolonial development, racial identity, social justice movements, and cultural expressions such as music, art, and literature.

The program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills, often involving research projects, seminars, and collaborations with faculty members who are experts in the field of African and African-American studies. Dartmouth’s location and its resources provide a unique environment for experiential learning, including possible internships, study abroad programs, and fieldwork in relevant communities. The program also emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of world history, economics, and social structures as they relate to African and African-American populations.

Graduates of the program find diverse career paths in academia, public policy, community activism, arts and media, international development, and education. The program aims to prepare students not only for graduate study but also for effective participation in a global society where issues of race, ethnicity, and cultural identity are increasingly prominent. Through its curriculum and community engagement, the African and African-American Studies Program at Dartmouth promotes awareness, inclusion, and social equity, nurturing informed and committed global citizens.