The African Studies Program focuses on key political, economic and social questions in contemporary Africa. The challenges facing Africa, among the most acute in the developing world, have compelled attention from the international community. The SAIS program covers the domestic and global context of African development, drawing on comparative approaches from the social sciences, along with extensive contextual knowledge of African countries. The study of Africa is organized along three broad themes: Governance The establishment of capable, effective, and legitimate government is among the most central dilemmas in post-colonial Africa. The study of governance includes themes of state formation; institutions; authoritarianism and democracy; public policy and administration; civil society and political participation; and the management of heterogeneous societies. We trace the historical origins of African states, their formation under colonial rule, and the difficulties of building public power and authority in independent Africa. Issues such as political reform, the rule of law, corruption, social diversity and federalism, and popular engagement in politics are important topics. We direct special attention to problems of democratization in Africa. Development Africa’s slow economic growth, and efforts at economic revitalization, provides a central theme of the program. The study of development includes economic growth and structure; social provisions and public welfare; the interplay of domestic and global markets; and the institutional foundations of economic performance. We are concerned with the colonial foundations of contemporary African economies, the region’s position in the world economy, and contemporary patterns of production, investment and trade. The role of governance and the development of institutions are important elements of economic change. We look at crucial issues of poverty, inequality, gender disparities, HIV/AIDS, education and health. We also consider the strategic options of African states under conditions of globalization. Security Security is a fundamental condition for effective governance and development. Since the end of the Cold War, the region has reflected widespread threats to national stability and human security. Failing states, interstate wars, and conflicts over natural resources have proliferated throughout the continent. Ethnic, religious and regional violence is a common syndrome, while in many countries criminality suffuses both society and the state. The study of security has global and domestic aspects. The nature of the contemporary international order and regional security arrangements provide central themes. The evolution of state power is a crucial focus. We also study the origins and changing patterns of instability in the region, and mechanisms for conflict mitigation. Campus Options Students studying at the Bologna Center may concentrate in African Studies. Since the number of African Studies courses offered by the Bologna Center is limited, students are advised to work toward fulfilling their SAIS economics and core requirements prior to their second year. Ph.D. Program The African Studies Program accepts a small number of doctoral candidates. In addition to coursework and comprehensive examinations, doctoral students normally write an article for publication. Each candidate’s dissertation prospectus must be presented in public and approved by the African Studies faculty. The African Studies comprehensive examination is scheduled in consultation with the Director. Click here to view the African Studies Ph.D. Program requirements. Typical African Studies Courses Click here to view full course descriptions - Africa in International Relations
- Contentious Politics in Sub-Saharan Africa
- The Darfur Crisis in Regional Perspective
- Democracy and Politics in Africa
- Economic Development of Africa
- Ethnicity, Identity and Politics in Africa
- Introduction to Political Inquiry
- Political Economy of African Development
- Politics and Development in Southern Africa
- Politics of Foreign Aid: Africa
- Post-Colonial Politics in Africa
- Senegal and Tunisia Summer Research Workshop
- South Africa’s Transition: Genesis and Legacy
- State-Building and Conflict in Africa
- U.S. Policy Toward Africa
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