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Center for International Studies
Yamada International House
56 E. Union St.
Athens, Ohio 45701
The Ohio University African Ensemble and Steel Band perform in 2024.
African Culture Through Music & Dance Graduate Certificate

African Culture Through Music & Dance Graduate Certificate

The Graduate Certificate in African Culture through Music and Arts — open to all OHIO master's and doctoral students — provides a specialized exploration of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Africa, focusing on its musical and artistic traditions.

This interdisciplinary program covers traditional and contemporary African music, visual arts, dance, and theater, emphasizing their historical, social, and cultural contexts. Students engage with various African artistic expressions, gaining critical insights and practical skills.

 

Career Opportunities

This certificate is ideal for educators, artists and cultural professionals because it enhances cultural understanding of African performing arts and prepares graduates for advanced roles in academia, arts and cultural organizations.

Music graduates who complete the certificate are well equipped to create inclusive and diverse curricula, incorporating African musical traditions into their teaching. Dance students learn new dance structures and movements for their creative works. Other majors gain in-depth knowledge of African cultures through music and dance.

Completion of relevant courses and participation in the Ohio University African Ensembles provides graduate students with a multicultural foundation, enhanced by personal experiences in African cultures through arts.

Admission Requirements

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The certificate program only accepts students who have been admitted to an advanced degree program at Ohio University. The African Culture through Music and Dance Certificate Director determines acceptance to the program.

Prospective applicants must prepare an application for submission to the African Culture through Music and Dance Certificate Director at Yamada International House or via email at international.studies@ohio.edu to obtain the signature of the Certificate Director. The application must include:

  • Completed Application for Update of Graduate Academic Program. This form is available on the Graduate College website. See Add Additional Certificate.
  • Resume/CV: This should list information about your academic background, professional and/or internship experience, and academic and/or professional accomplishments (such as conference presentations, publications, internships, volunteer work, prizes, honors, awards, etc.).
  • Statement of Purpose: This two-page statement should discuss your educational and professional goals and how the African Culture through Music and Dance Certificate will help you meet those goals. Applicants should be specific in discussing aspects of their background that have led them to the program and how the program can support their future professional and/or academic goals.

The completed application, including the signature of the African Culture through Music and Dance Certificate Director, should then be submitted to the Graduate College at Ohio University.

Completion Requirements

Full Certificate Requirements in the Official Academic Catalog

For More Information

Contact: Dr. Ghirmai Negash