Democracy and Development in South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa
Immerse yourself in the politics and culture of one of the most dynamic and influential countries in Africa. On this program, you will work with leading scholars and organizations as you develop an understanding of how South Africa has developed into the modern state it is today.
Academic Director: David Hirschmann
Program Director: Dylan Craig
Academic Details
This six-week program focuses on democratization and political reform, decentralization and local governance, public health issues, ethnicity and national identity, poverty and unemployment, and other topics related as detailed on page 4 of the program guide [pdf]. The program consists of three academic components worth 3 credits each: a mandatory core seminar that includes lectures and discussions with prominent South Africans, an optional internship, and an optional independent study (alternative to internship).
Site Visits
Students on previous years' programs have enjoyed trips to the South African Parliament, Robben Island (the notorious island prison off the Western Cape), Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, and several townships.
2009 Program Dates:
May 15 – May 31: Core Seminar and Site Visits
June 1 – June 26: Internship or Independent Study
Program Costs: AU tuition plus program fee. See details on page 12 of the program guide [pdf].
Who Should Attend:
Graduate students in all majors and disciplines from any U.S. university may apply. Advanced undergraduates who have completed at least 90 credits toward the completion of their degrees or are enrolled in the Honors program are also welcome to apply. All students must demonstrate academic achievement, an interest in issues covered in the seminar, and the ability to adapt to a cross-cultural environment.
Logistics:
Students are responsible for making their own flight arrangements to/from Cape Town. Students will be housed in shared tourist class accommodations for the duration of the Program.
Application and Deadlines:
Application instructions and materials are available on page 13 of the program guide. Students must read the entire program guide before applying. All applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and must be received by March 16, 2009 for priority consideration.
Contact:
SIS Office of International Programs
sissum@american.edu
Download the summer 2009 program guide [pdf].