Beats Beyond Borders: Digital Storytelling & Hip Hop Culture
Program Dates
TBD*
*Students should plan on participating in group travel to Ghana for the program start date or arriving to Ghana on the program start date independently.
Program Overview
In this four-week program, students will immerse themselves in Ghanaian culture, capturing the spirit and essence of Ghana through the lens of their mobile device. A particular focus will be the both origins and present-day business of Hip Hop culture, particularly its undeniable global impact through the African diaspora. Guided by social media and digital storytelling methods, students will explore musical genres in Africa, such as Afro Beats, that influence today & pop culture. Students will then create compelling, engaging content documenting their experiences and leverage their digital presence through their storytelling.
Program Eligibility & Admission
- Open to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
- Recommended for Visual & Media Arts, Journalism, Marketing Communication, and Business of Creative Enterprise students, but open to all majors and minors
Course Information
This program is offered for a total of 8 credits. Students will be required to be enrolled by Emerson College in the following two courses:
- TBD
Academic Highlights
- Build your skills as a backpack visual storyteller.
- Collaborate with a cohort of Emerson students from diverse majors.
- Leave with a professional product to add to your portfolio.
- Immerse in the culture and history of Ghana.
Cultural Highlights
- Visit local media outlets and associations such as the National Film & Television Institute (NAFTI), Ghana Broadcasting Company/TV3, Ghanaian Institute of Journalism, and Media Foundation for West Africa.
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage site Elmina Castle, Black Star Square, the Dubois Centre, and Kakum National Park.
- Meet and learn from local experts in the fields of history, poetry, tribal governance, photography, beauty/fashion, media, and dance.
Cost & Inclusions
Program Fee: $TBD
Included in the Program Fee
- Tuition (4 credits)
- Registration Fee
- Housing in double rooms
- Some shared meals
- Included excursions, company visits, and guest speakers
- Airport transfers on program dates and in-country transportation
Not Included in the Program Fee
- Round-trip airfare to/from Kotoka International Airport (Est. $1,500)
- Some independent meals
- Incidental or personal expenses
- Passports (or visas, if required)
- International Health Insurance*
*May be waived by those with alternate comparable insurance.
*Health Insurance Coverage: Participants must have an insurance plan that provides coverage while abroad. If you feel your current insurance is not adequate, please research a plan that is.
For information on Supplemental Health Plans, please visit our Health Insurance Requirements page.
Subject to change.