Student near the famously pink waters of Lake Retba in Senegal

International Development in Dakar, Senegal

SUA offers a study abroad program in Dakar through the University of Minnesota. This program is best suited for students with intermediate language skills.

Program Characteristics

The fall semester takes place from the beginning of September to mid-December. The spring semester takes place from mid-January to mid-May.

  • 2.5 GPA
  • Four semesters of college-level French

The semester begins with a one-week orientation, followed by seven weeks of intensive coursework. Next is six weeks of working as an intern or conducting a research project where a student is placed with a local organization. The semester ends with a one-week final seminar when students are expected to do presentations.

In addition to classes, you will visit development agencies and other areas of interest around Dakar. A longer excursion to the Toubakouta region will introduce you to life in a more rural area.

Students live with homestay families during the entire program.

Student group in Senegal
Video: More information about the program, operated by the University of Minnesota's Learning Abroad Center

Program Highlights

Dakar, Senegal map

Location

The western-most land on the African mainland, Dakar is on the Cap-Vert peninsula, surrounded on three sides by cool Atlantic waters. Its climate is often described as “eternal spring.”

Student group in front of program center

Setting

Students in front of the West African Research Center, where the program is based in Dakar.

 

Students with women's co-op in Toubacouta

Culture

Students meeting with members of a local woman’s co-op group in Toubakouta.

Student and employee working on signage

Internship opportunities

Students spend six weeks of the program either working on an internship or on a research project.