About the Program
Length: Fall Semester
Rooted in French and Ghanian history and society, this program examines the transatlantic slave trade from the African, European and American perspective. Students explore indigenous slavery systems, the trans-Saharan and transatlantic trades, and their impacts on African and European polities, economies, and cultures. With lectures, archival research, and visits to key heritage sites in both France and Ghana, this program examines each country’s central role in the transatlantic slave trade, as well as the resistance, resilience, and enduring legacies of the people affected by it. This program is meant to appeal to a broad range of majors, who are interested in an immersive historical experience and instruction in two countries.The course of this program spans twelve weeks: students and faculty leader(s) will spend nine weeks in France (Nantes) and three weeks in Ghana (Accra, Cape Coast) and the program includes instruction in both locations.
This program is particularly well suited for institutions seeking to expand access to global learning at the second and third-year levels without requiring students to navigate the French visa process. Nantes’ compact, safe, and walkable university setting provides a supportive environment for students, while programming in Accra and Cape Coast offers opportunities to engage deeply with Ghana’s rich history, culture, and contemporary society. The program offers an exceptional combination of academic quality, cultural immersion, and affordability—providing students with a once-in-a-lifetime international experience at a more accessible price point. And with no French student visa required, getting there is easier than you might think.
PLEASE NOTE: We cannot guarantee the availability of all housing, excursions, cultural events, guest lecturers or tours.
Academics
Academic Program includes:
- HS/CU 351 - Studies in Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery II: France and the European Legacy (required, 3 credits with IES Abroad-sourced faculty)
- IES Abroad Nantes Course in ENGL or FRN. Choose from:
1. HS/SO 380 - French Colonialism and Its Afterlives
OR
2. SO360 - Contemporary French Society: French Identity in the European Union
OR
3. FRN Language 101
OR
4. Any IES Abroad Nantes Area Studies Course in FRN (required, 3 credits with IES Abroad-sourced faculty) - One course taught by School faculty (content TBD by the School, not transcripted through IES Abroad Registrar)
- HS/CU 350 - Studies in Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery I: Ghana and the African Experience (required, 3 credits with IES Abroad-sourced faculty)
