Beats Beyond Borders: Digital Storytelling and Hip Hop Culture
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:
- BC 320 - Topics in Business of Creative Enterprise
- CC372 - Topics in Communication Studies
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.