Dates: 3-31 July, 2012

Where: Accra, Ghana

Credits: 6 graduate credits in International Relations

Open to all CUNY juniors, seniors & graduate students

The purpose of this course is to learn more about the formation of contemporary democracies in Africa, with a special focus on Ghana, which gained its independence from British colonial rule in 1957.  The course will also examine the history of traditional forms of governance in Africa and particularly in Ghana.  In many UN peacekeeping operations today the international community is discovering that governance in Africa may require a blending of modern democratic policies and institutions with traditional, tribal custom and decision making by local leaders.  This course will examine this relationship with the goal of providing a greater understanding for policy makers in solidifying stable governance systems that are relevant to local cultures.

Students will be required to attend all classes, read all the assigned material, and participate in all site visits.  Each student will choose a research topic and will be required to do interviews with people in Ghana, research Ghanaian governmental structures, and study tribal groups.

Costs*:

Program costs: $907

Application fee: $300

Meals: $700 (approx.)

Airfare: $2000 (approx.)

CCNY Tuition for 6 graduate credits

*Interested undergraduate students may apply for the CUNY Summer STOCS Award.

*For all students, Federal Financial Aid is applicable towards CCNY tuition costs.