African Studies
About Our Program
Hamjambo! Explore the vibrant culture and histories of the second-largest continent in the world in our African studies program. You’ll draw connections to a variety of disciplines as you seize the opportunity for complete cultural immersion and think about the world from a cross-cultural perspective.
By examining subjects like anthropology, economics, environmental studies, government, history, and more, you’ll develop an understanding of the diversity of the African people and the breadth of their experience throughout history.
From Canton to Kenya, you’ll learn from professors with a wide range of expertise who are eager to harness your curiosity for African studies through research, internships, and other hands-on experiences.
Learning Experiences to Prepare for Your Career
We provide you with the cross-cultural tools to take your education beyond the classroom.Research
Further your passion and interest with your own research project. You may even present your findings at an international research conference like Megan Kloeckner ’18 did. She combined her experiences during the Kenya Program and a research fellowship to work alongside professor Matt Carotenuto examining how local development priorities clashed with the racial hierarchy of colonial rule in western Kenya, and some of the ways it still impacts development debates today.
Brookings Institution Summer Internship
Amplify your education by completing an internship in a real-world environment. With an extensive academic background in African studies, you will be a strong candidate for an eight-week summer internship with the African Security Initiative, a leading D.C. think-tank whose mission focuses on academic research and public policy.
As an intern, you’ll collaborate with scholars, government officials, and other policymakers to examine issues impacting the African continent today. Curious about the cost of living? St. Lawrence provides a weekly living stipend for the duration of your experience.
Global Perspectives
You can choose from 30 affiliate programs in 20 countries to challenge your perspective and expand your worldview. Popular destinations for current students in our program include Kenya and France.
Kenya Semester Program
Put your knowledge into practice by spending a semester studying abroad in one of the longest-running programs on the African continent. Based at our St. Lawrence owned and operated campus in Karen, Nairobi, you will hone the skills you need to live safely and independently in Kenya.
During your travels, you’ll find a home away from home with host families, live off the land as a hunter-gatherer, navigate bustling local cities, and explore the coastal continent. You will learn the culture of each community directly from Africa’s diverse society while gaining a new perspective on the lives, experiences, and traditions of the Kenyan people.
From marine wildlife conservation to working with the Federation of Women Lawyers, you will collaborate with local organizations across the country in places like Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda during a meaningful and rewarding internship.
Among the 150+ clubs and organizations at St. Lawrence, you’ll find many that align with your interest in African studies, including:
- Anthropology Club
- African Student Union
- Black Student Union
- Gumboot Dance
- Model United Nations
Why St. Lawrence for African Studies
of students study more than one discipline
Nairobi Campus
5.5 acres of St. Lawrence owned and operated campus in Nairobi
47 Years
47 years of the Kenya Semester Program (KSP)
Proud KSP alumni
of St. Lawrence students study off campus
Graduates who studied African studies have careers in:
- Government
- International Development
- The Peace Corps
- The African Wildlife Foundation
- Education
- Federation of Women Lawyers, Kenya
- The African Medical and Research Foundation
Most Popular Study Abroad Program
The Princeton Review, 2020
More Program Information
Program Requirements & Courses
Explore African Studies minor requirements, as well as electives and combined study options.
Complementary and Related Programs
If you’re interested in african studies, you might also like these programs.
African Studies Faculty
Our faculty provide you with a robust education thanks to their interdisciplinary expertise. You’ll learn from anthropologists, biologists, economists, historians, language experts, and government scholars.
“St. Lawrence is a place that’s not just confined to a nice and beautiful place in upstate New York, but is a gateway to thinking about the world.”
Dr. Matthew Carotenuto
Erika Barthelmess
Eloise Brezault
Wendi Haugh
Dr. Kristin McKie
"We all had our heads and cameras hanging out the window as we cruised through Tanzanian villages nestled at the base of huge lush mountains. Kids lined the streets waving at the mzungus flying by. I immediately felt a special connection to this place and the joy that was so present among all of the people."
Annie Vatcher
Pack Your Bags
For over 40 years St. Lawrence has operated the Kenya Semester Program, making it one of the longest-running U.S. study abroad programs on the African continent. Prepare for an experience you won’t forget!
A Global Laurentian Network
The Kenya Semester Program has provided more than 2,200 students with a transformative experience in Nairobi. As a Laurentian, you’ll have opportunities to unpack your experience with your global alumni network through the Engaging Africa Initiative.
Get More Information
We’re excited to learn more about you, tell you more about our interdisciplinary academic programs, show you around our beautiful campus, and help you navigate your college search.
Apply to St. Lawrence
We’re looking for curious students who are eager to make a difference. We take a holistic approach to reviewing applications and consider all aspects of your application and what we learn about you.