Certificate in African Studies
Students in IR Master’s programs have the option of earning a Graduate Certificate in African Studies, under the joint direction of the IR Department and the African Studies Center (ASC). Students fulfill all of the usual requirements of their degree program but choose their coursework such as to fulfill the requirements of the certificate. No additional coursework is required because courses completed for the African Studies Certificate also fulfill electives and/or track requirements toward the MA degree.
Please note that while in theory the African Studies Certificate may be combined with any of our MA programs, in practice the relatively complex course requirements of some of our joint programs may make it difficult to complete the certificate. The certificate can easily be undertaken by students in the MAIA, IRRN, IRIC, IR/MBA, and IREL programs. Combination with other degree programs may prove difficult.
Requirements for a Graduate Certificate in African Studies
- Successfully complete at least 16 hours of course work from the African Studies Curriculum.
- Obtain a grade of B or better (i.e. not a B-) in each of the courses.
- Include courses from at least two departments or schools.
- Include no more than 8 hours of coursework in directed study or research.
- Write an MA Paper or two substantial research papers in graduate-level seminars on African topics.
- Pass the language exam in an African language or a major European language used in African studies.
- Receive approval of completion from the Director or Assistant Director of the ASC and the student’s faculty advisor.
For additional details regarding this certificate, please see the African Studies Center website or call them at 617-353-3673.
The African Studies Certificate is not available for students at our Brussels campus.