Learning Abroad Center
This program page is for UofM students. If you are a non-UofM student, visit MSID—International Development in Senegal
boats on the coast of Dakar

MSID—International Development in Senegal (UofM Students)

Africa & Middle East
LAC Program

Study international development in Senegal—a fascinating country seen as a bridge between Africa and the West—while improving your French language skills. The program includes a six-week internship or research project with a grassroots organization focused on entrepreneurship, health, human rights, or sustainability.

Program Details

Location
Location
Dakar, Senegal
Term
Term
Fall Semester
Spring Semester
Housing
Housing
Homestay
Languages Taught In
Languages Taught In
French

Program Eligibility

Student Type
Student Type
UofM Students
Student Year
Student Year
Sophomores
Juniors
Seniors
GPA
GPA
2.5
Language Prerequisite
Language Prerequisite
Minimum 4 semesters college-level French

Photos

Videos

MSID--International Development in Senegal

Program Locations

West Africa Research Center (WARC)

Classes will be held here.

Latitude
14.691100
Longitude
-17.472100
Toubacouta

Students will participate in a multiday community action project in this village.

Latitude
13.784900
Longitude
-16.474300
Gorée Island

One of the sites students will visit on excursion.

Latitude
14.666900
Longitude
-17.398700
IFAN Museum of African Arts

Rue Emile Zola, Dakar, Senegal

Latitude
14.663500
Longitude
-17.438000
Soumbédioune Market

Both the artisan market and the adjacent fish market. Students can find baskets, jewelry, woodcarvings, and many other things or stop by and see what the catch of the day is.

Latitude
14.677700
Longitude
-17.458400
Les Almadies

The western most point of the African continent.

Latitude
14.744500
Longitude
-17.525400
African Renaissance Monument

A colossal and controversial monument is dedicated to Africa's emergence from the oppressive European regimes that once ruled the continent and the end of slavery.

Latitude
14.722200
Longitude
-17.495000
Mosque of the Divinity

A beautiful mosque located right along the coast.

Latitude
14.715800
Longitude
-17.490500
Lake Retba

Also known as the Lac Rose is pink due to the cyanobacteria and high salt content.

Latitude
14.838800
Longitude
-17.234100
Sea Plaza

A mall located near WARC. Students can use ATMs in the building or visit some of the shops and restaurants keeping in mind that they are geared toward wealthier Senegalese.

Latitude
14.693500
Longitude
-17.474500

About

Learning from experience is at the core of the Minnesota Studies in International Development (MSID) philosophy. This program puts you in direct contact with the social and economic realities of actual communities and people working within them to address complex issues. Through classes, excursions, and an extended internship or research placement, MSID strives to establish a continual dialogue linking experience with theory and critical analysis. Learn more about the mission and educational philosophy at MSID Philosophy.

Senegal has long been seen as a crossroads where African, Islamic, and European civilizations have met, clashed, and blended. Today, it's still seen as a bridge between Africa and the West and serves as a base for many multinational NGOs and corporations. It is also a place where Senegalese people remain deeply attached to traditional values and cultures. This program is based in Dakar, Senegal's cosmopolitan capital. Heated by the African sun, while surrounded on three sides by cool Atlantic waters, Dakar has a climate often described as "eternal spring."

Program Model

Experiential Learning
Study Abroad Center

Housing & Meals

Winter Pre-Session & Spring 2022: Due to COVID 19, homestays may not be possible, and in that case you would be housed in shared student apartments. Apartments are fully furnished, include cooking facilities. Apartments are located within walking distance of the program center at WARC. Weeknight dinners will be provided by the program (Monday - Friday). You will be responsible for providing breakfast, lunches and weekend dinners throughout the program.

Homestay placements may become available closer to the start of the program.

Homestay

You will live with a homestay family throughout your time in Senegal. Students who choose an internship or research placement outside of Dakar will have a second homestay.

Homestay families provide breakfast and dinner daily; you will be responsible for providing your own lunches. Host families can typically accommodate a variety of dietary needs, but students with severe food allergies and/or restrictions should discuss their situation with the program team prior to applying.

Homestays are an integral component of the learning experience and often a highlight for participants. Your family provides not only housing and most meals but is also a connection to Senegalese culture. Nearly all families have hosted program participants before and have been chosen for their genuine interest in sharing Senegalese life with an MSID program participant.

Students who choose an internship or research placement outside of Dakar will have a second homestay placement.

Excursions

Although excursions change from year to year, you can expect to visit a variety of sites that may include local markets, development organizations, and areas of interest in and around Dakar. Each of the International Development courses will include a day-long excursion focused on the particular topics discussed.

A five-day academic excursion to the rural Toubacouta region is considered a highlight of the semester by most program participants. This takes place half-way through the classroom phase and illustrates how many of the international development theories are put into practice.

Flight

The Learning Abroad Center works with Village Travel, a local travel agency, to arrange a coordinated flight for program participants. The flight is optional, and is arranged for those who want to fly with other program participants. Group flight information is typically available by the program application deadline, if not before.

All students will be met at the airport in Dakar (DSS). If you take the group flight, or are able to arrive just before the group flight, our staff will meet you at the airport and bring you to your arrival hotel at no added cost. If you do not take the group flight, we will arrange a taxi for you, but you will need to pay for it on your own. Specific arrival instructions will be sent out prior to your departure.

For immigration purposes, you should purchase a round-trip ticket, since you must be able to show your entry and exit dates from Senegal.

Learning Outcomes

  • Foster an understanding of the global context through classroom and experiential learning
  • Cultivate awareness and appreciation for development issues through engagement with diverse communities
  • Translate insights gained into thoughtful and respectful long-term perspectives on concepts of social justice and sustainable development
  • Strengthen communication skills through acquisition of local languages and cultural awareness
  • Gain cross-cultural competencies through extended engagement at a local grassroots organization

Faculty & Staff

A team of dedicated local staff, based in Dakar, work to ensure that your experience is safe, academically enriching, and rewarding. Combined, the Senegal Staff have decades of experience working with students.

Dr. Ousmane Sène, Resident Director

The team is led by Dr. Ousmane Sène, who has been a part of the program since 1995. Dr. Sène chaired the Department of English, Université Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, for 10 years. He received his PhD in literature from the École Normale Supérieure de St. Cloud and the Université Paris III-Sorbonne. He has taught and done research on francophone and anglophone literature at several North American and European institutions. Among his special interests is the portrayal of African social, cultural, and development issues through literature. Dr. Sène is also the Director of the West African Research Association (WARC), the institution housing MSID in Senegal.

Korka Sall, Assistant Director

Korka Sall is the assistant director for the MSID Senegal program and is in charge of the academic planning for the program. In May 2021, Dr. Sall completed a Ph.D. in English from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst). She returned to Senegal after nine years in the US, teaching and taking classes at different universities including UMass Amherst, Mount Holyoke College, and Harvard University. Dr. Sall is a passionate scholar and academic, invested in creating inclusive learning environments, mentoring students, contributing to students’ understanding of themselves as part of a diverse world, and helping them apply transferable skills to their daily life.

Awa Fall, Program Coordinator - Housing & Finances

Marie Guèye, Program Coordinator - Internships

Papa Samba Niang, Program Coordinator - Student Affairs

MSID Senegal Staff
In the photo from left to right: Papa Samba, Marie, Ousmane, Awa, Korka

Program Structure

Program Level
3000–4000 level courses
Courseload

You are required to take 16 credits for fall or spring semester. Add 4 credits for optional French language pre-session.

Coursework

MSID Timeline

Spend seven weeks engaged in coursework in Dakar, followed by six weeks working as an intern or conducting a research project with a local grassroots organization. All classes are taught in French by local faculty and take place at the West African Research Center (WARC). MSID students enroll in four required courses, including an internship or research project:

Historical & Political Context of Senegal

All students will be enrolled in this interdisciplinary course, designed to provide context to your time in Senegal.

International Development

Choose a theme to focus your studies and prepare you for your internship or research project. See theme descriptions for more information.

  • Entrepreneurship 
  • Health
  • Human Rights
  • Sustainability 

Language

You will select to study either French or Wolof. You will choose a course in that corresponds to your language level. All students are encouraged to study Wolof during the semester. This will help you communicate with your host families, internship/research colleagues, and navigate in and outside of Dakar. Wolof is spoken on a daily basis throughout Senegal. If you need to complete a French language and grammar course for your degree requirements, you are encouraged to participate in the Intensive Pre-Session.

Internship or Research

You will choose to complete either an internship or a research project. The corresponding course will begin during the classroom phase and continue throughout the six weeks of your internship or research project. Your placement will correspond with the theme you chose in the International Development course.

 

Optional Language Pre-Session

The Intensive French in Senegal is offered in August and in January. All students are encouraged to participate in the pre-session program. This intensive three weeks of French will help you bring your language skills up to speed and will provide more time to adapt to Dakar and Senegal before diving into the rigorous MSID Semester. Past participants report that the extra time in country, and additional French language practice before tackling Wolof, was very beneficial. It enhanced their ability to understand the print and televised media, to navigate the city, and to converse with their host families and friends. The French language course is taught over three weeks and awards four undergraduate credits. Intermediate and Advanced French levels are offered.

Internships & Research Projects

The internship or research experience is the cornerstone of the MSID program. Your placement will be with an organization engaged in grassroots work related to your chosen international development theme.

During the classroom phase, the on-site staff will review your interests and attempt to place you with an organization whose goals match your objectives. Most requests within a general field can be accommodated, but adjustments may be made based on availability. You will work at least 25 hours each week. Details about the internship and research process are in the Program Handbook.

See a description of past internship and research placements. The chart below will help you differentiate between an internship and a research placement.

ThemeInternship exampleResearch example
EntrepreneurshipMeet with micro loan applicants and review loan application materialsAnalyze the loan repayment rate at a microfinance organization
HealthProvide support to health care professionals in a small regional hospital or clinicSurvey the hospital’s education and outreach plan to address local health disparities
Human RightsProvide support to an organization that provides job skill training for womenAnalyze the wage gap between men and women in various sectors of the local economy
SustainabilityParticipate in an agroforestry project in collaboration with an organization that focuses on sustainabilityCompare and contrast local and national research on the environmental impact of agroforestry programs

Full Course List

Choose one course from each Course Type for a total of four courses and 16 credits. Refer to the main Academics tab for more detailed information about available courses.

Beginning Wolof

Course ID
SNGL 1101
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This Wolof course will be structured around ten competencies drawn from the Competency Based Teaching (CBT) approach. The course focuses on practical skills while emphasizing conversation and vocabulary building.

Syllabus for Beginning Wolof

Language Taught In
  • French
  • Wolof

Advanced French I

Course ID
SNGL 3015
Terms
  • Fall
  • Winter Break
  • Spring
  • Summer
4
Credits

This French language and grammar course focuses on advanced practical skills while emphasizing conversation and vocabulary building in the Senegalese context. This course covers linguistic skill development equivalent to 5th semester French.

Syllabus for Advanced French I

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
FREN 1004 or equivalent
UofM Equivalent
FREN 3015

Advanced French II

Course ID
SNGL 3016
Terms
  • Fall
  • Winter Break
  • Spring
  • Summer
4
Credits

This French language and grammar course focuses on advanced practical skills while emphasizing conversation and vocabulary building. This course covers linguistic skill development equivalent to 6th semester French.

Syllabus for Advanced French II

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
FREN 3015 or equivalent
UofM Equivalent
FREN 3016

Intermediate Wolof

Course ID
SNGL 3101
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course focuses on intermediate Wolof language skills including conversation, reading, and vocabulary development.

(Syllabus tailored to individual needs)


Language Taught In
  • French
  • Wolof
Prerequisite
2+ semesters of college-level Wolof

Advanced Wolof

Course ID
SNGL 3102
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course focuses on more advanced Wolof conversation, reading, and vocabulary.

(Syllabus tailored to individual needs)


Language Taught In
  • French
  • Wolof
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level Wolof

Advanced Language through Current Events

Course ID
SNGL 3201
Terms
  • Fall
  • Winter Break
  • Spring
  • Summer
4
Credits

This course focuses on advanced practical speaking and listening skills while emphasizing conversation and vocabulary building through discussion of current events while living in a French-speaking country, Senegal, through language instruction and interaction with native speakers. The prerequisite is completion of 6th semester French (FREN 3016).

Syllabus for Advanced Language through Current Events

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
FREN 3016 or equivalent

Reading & Writing through Current Events

Course ID
SNGL 3202
Terms
  • Fall
  • Winter Break
  • Spring
  • Summer
4
Credits

This course focuses on advanced practical skills while emphasizing reading and writing through the analysis of works by critical Senegalese authors. The prerequisite is completion of 6th semester French (FREN 3016).

Syllabus for Reading & Writing through Current Events

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
FREN 3016 or equivalent

International Development: Human Rights, Policy & Practice

Course ID
SNGL 4001
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course will start with the Political Economy of International Development (PIED) which critically explores the role of the international development agenda, with a specific focus on its impact on the African continent. 

Students will then examine constructs of Human Rights and Services in developing countries in general and Senegal in particular. As background to the course, an attempt is made to create common understanding of key concepts such as human rights, social justice, human services, social services, social welfare, community development and social work.

Syllabus for International Development: Human Rights, Policy & Practice

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level French
Fulfills Liberal Education Requirement
  • Social Sciences

International Development: Entrepreneurship & Inclusive Finance

Course ID
SNGL 4002
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course will start with the Political Economy of International Development (PIED) which critically explores the role of the international development agenda, with a specific focus on its impact on the African continent.  Students will then examine constructs of inclusive finance in developing countries in general and Senegal in particular. This course will challenge students to understand development policy strategies and tools that use inclusive finance, particularly microfinance, as a strategy for economic growth in the fight against poverty. A critical reflection on the limits of microfinance as a sustainable development approach will allow students to better understand attempts at innovation that respond to specific issues related to microfinance.  The course will introduce them to the positive contributions of microfinance in obtaining the goals of sustainable development. Students will address topics such as entrepreneurship, social and solidarity economy, financial inclusion and microfinance, access to financial services, etc..

Syllabus for International Development: Entrepreneurship & Inclusive Finance

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level French
Fulfills Liberal Education Requirement
  • Social Sciences

International Development: Public & Community Health

Course ID
SNGL 4003
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course will start with the Political Economy of International Development (PIED) which critically explores the role of the international development agenda, with a specific focus on its impact on the African continent.  Students will then examine constructs of Public & Community Health in developing countries in general and Senegal in particular. This course will present students with an overview of the social-health system in Senegal and critically discuss the main obstacles that Senegal has had to overcome in the realm of public health. It will highlight health determinants, explain the choice of the Senegalese to prioritize the fight against certain illnesses, and present the organization of its public health services.

Syllabus for International Development: Public & Community Health

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level French
Fulfills Liberal Education Requirement
  • Social Sciences

International Development: Sustainable Development & Climate Change

Course ID
SNGL 4004
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course will start with the Political Economy of International Development (PIED) which critically explores the role of the international development agenda, with a specific focus on its impact on the African continent. Students will then examine constructs of Sustainable Development & Climate Change in developing countries in general and Senegal in particular. Students will engage with topics such as waste management in urban settings, mangrove swamps, the balance between practical needs and preservation, coastal preservation in Senegal (maritime erosion, the loss of biodiversity, difficulties access fishing waters), flooding in Dakar neighborhoods, recycling, and the repurposing of waste objects.

Syllabus for International Development: Sustainable Development & Climate Change

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level French
Fulfills Liberal Education Requirement
  • Social Sciences
  • The Environment

Historical & Political Context of Senegal

Course ID
SNGL 4101
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course provides a historical overview of Senegal and uses this rich history to explore the various political, socio-economic and current issues that characterize Senegal today. Students will analyze the place of Senegal in the broader West African sub region; discuss the physical and human resources available for Senegal’s development and the major challenges and constraints it faces while taking a critical look at the country’s economic policy and political system. The various Senegalese cultures, cultural values, arts and lifestyles will be infused throughout the course.

Syllabus for Historical & Political Context of Senegal

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level French
Fulfills Liberal Education Requirement
  • Historical Perspectives

Research in Senegal

Course ID
SNGL 4201
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course will introduce the MSID student to: various research concepts and practices; experience decisions involved in research regarding selection of topic and title for their study, developing statements of problems and choice of research questions, appropriate research design; issues related to research ethics and; develop their skills in choosing data collection instruments and analysis of the data they collect for their research. It does this by introducing various topics in the research cycle and providing a forum in which students can share with one another their research experience at each stage of the process.

Syllabus for Research in Senegal

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level French

Internship in Senegal

Course ID
SNGL 4896
Terms
  • Fall
  • Spring
4
Credits

This course provides a cross-cultural experience of working on various development issues with a regional nonprofit organization. The course focuses on guiding students to understand their own identity as they integrate theory with reality by participation in local development sites. Students are prepared for entering into their community work through discussions on stakeholder and agency analysis, culture specific gender and diversity context, and power and privilege. The mentoring continues while students are at their internship placement as they come in contact with social actors, community organizations, as well as local and national authorities. Through practical internship experiences as well as readings, discussions, and written assignments, students will deepen their understanding of the host-country cultural context, development work from an international perspective, and critically examine their own worldview.

Syllabus for Internship in Senegal

Language Taught In
  • French
Prerequisite
4+ semesters of college-level French

Global Identity

Course ID
OLPD 3332
Terms
  • Online (all terms)
1
Credit

Global Identity: Connecting Your International Experience with Your Future is an optional 1-credit online course that helps you process your international experience and apply what you've learned upon your return.  Global Identity gives you the opportunity to work individually with a trained cultural mentor, helping you articulate your newly acquired skills for future professional opportunities, and differentiating you from your peers.

This course is offered at no additional cost on programs six weeks or longer. There are several sections offered including: Honors, College of Liberal Arts, and Leadership Minor focused versions of the course. Here is a link to additional Global Identity Course Information for details on how to request registration, deadlines and grade basis.

 

Syllabus for Global Identity

Language Taught In
  • English
Fulfills Liberal Education Requirement
  • Global Perspectives

Internships

As an MSID student, you will complete a research project or participate in an internship for six weeks. In either option, you will be placed with a local organization related to the theme you chose for the International Development course (Entrepreneurship, Health, Human Rights, Sustainability). 

Internships involve participation in and observation of the daily activities of a local agency. You will put into practice the theories you learned in the classroom. 

Below are examples of past students’ internships:

Entrepreneurship

  • Work in a company to balance finances and help with accounting and processing micro-finance loan applications
  • Work in a rural area with women’s group undertaking micro-financing
  • Work at a community radio station with the objective to reach new audiences
  • Participate in the implementation and evaluation of adult literacy programs focusing on skills necessary for running small businesses

Health

  • Assist public health organization with disease tracking, reporting and mapping
  • Work in a women's maternal health clinic
  • Preparte and provide health care education
  • Assist with child health and nutrition monitoring
  • Work in a traditional medicine institution

Human Rights

  • Teach computer education to youth
  • Work with local art and music collectives on social justice issues
  • Travel to villages to assist in conferences on violence against women, marriage, and the legal aspects of divorce in Senegal
  • Work in the information and accounts departments of an organization that helps women achieve self-sufficiency
  • Work with a Dakar-based women's association to analyze data about the legal problems of Senegalese women
  • Make children's toys from recycled materials, work in a hooking bag stand with teenagers, and teach and play music with a children's band
  • Research possible solutions to problems with eco-tourism such as prostitution, higher dropout rates, and environment
  • Monitor immigration patterns, trends, causes, etc. in Senegal and West Africa
  • Work in a day nursery at an orphanage
  • Train migrant families in computers, English, and French
  • Help with economic and social development planning at a regional level
  • Work with organizations that help street children

Sustainability

  • Work at an organization to educate about soil degradation issues
  • Work on reforestation in the Saloum area
  • Observe chimpanzees and record data for anthropological research
  • Work on a farm that is experimenting with new seeds and more sustainable ways to irrigate the soil
  • Maintain and harvest in the fields with a women's cooperative
  • Monitor irrigation, cutting, and tilling of soil on farms
  • Work with an organization promoting organic agriculture in villages
  • Help improve production and agricultural techniques in community gardens cared for by local women in rural villages 

Research

As an MSID student, you will complete a research project or participate in an internship for six weeks. In either option, you will be placed with a local organization related to the theme you chose for the International Development course (Entrepreneurship, Health, Human Services, Sustainability). 

A research project involves a systematic investigation of a specific topic, question, hypothesis, or theory. You will conduct research under the guidance of a project supervisor from the MSID program and a local organization. 

Below are examples of past students’ research projects:

Research Project Examples

  • Air pollution's impact on respiratory health in Dakar
  • Allocation of personnel and resources in hospital management in Senegal
  • Hygiene and community health in Keur Samba Gueye
  • The prevalence and efficacy of soil testing in rural Senegal

Human Subjects Research

The governments of the United States and MSID countries have laws protecting human subjects of research. Due to the timeline for gaining the necessary permissions for doing research with human subjects, such research cannot be conducted while abroad on LAC program. However, there are still a wide variety of projects, that include interaction with people, that are available. See more information on options for Undergraduate Research Abroad.

International Development Themes

Select one of the four themes for your International Development course.  This theme will focus your studies and prepare you for your internship or research project.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship looks different in each cultural context. Examine the history, development, challenges, opportunities, and role of business and microfinance in the economic and social development of the local community. The theme includes an analysis of informal sector enterprises, the role of social entrepreneurship, and an overview of key aspects of microfinance. 

Health

Examine health care systems, the management and prevention of disease, and the philosophical approaches to health care, including the role of traditional medicine, through this theme. Specific topics for discussion may include holistic health, women’s and children’s health, public health, animal health, and rural vs. urban health care facilities. 

Human Rights

Understand how human rights are legislated and regulated at the policy level, as well as how they are implemented at the grass roots level. In particular, this theme will consider the impact on the most vulnerable members of society, including women, children, indigenous groups, people with disabilities, and homeless, migrant, and elderly populations. 

Sustainability

Investigate the relationship between environmental and natural resources challenges and the local community. This theme may cover critical issues, biodiversity, sustainable food and water sources, responsible agricultural practices, design practices, natural resource utilization and management, climate change, wildlife management, and sustainable development.

Program Dates

Submit the online application and complete the assigned application checklist according to the appropriate deadline:

Orientation Dates & Locations

Orientation will be conducted in 2 parts: an online orientation, which is mandatory for all students, and an in-person, program-specific session. You will receive more information about the online orientation via email. Failure to complete the online orientation will impact your ability to go abroad.

See below for tentative dates and times for your in-person session. You will be notified of the official date and time via email. Participants will receive applicable orientation materials via email approximately 1 week prior to the in-person session.

Pre-Departure Orientation

 DateLocation
Spring 2024November 6, 2023 from 3:00–5:00 p.m.Zoom
Fall 2024TBDTBD

Fall 2024

Application Open Date: Dec 1, 2023
Application Deadline: May 1, 2024

ScheduleDate
Depart from the USAug 24
Arrive in DakarAug 25
OrientationAug 26–Sept 1
Classroom phaseSept 2–Oct 18
Fall breakOct 19–25
Internship/Research phaseOct 28–Dec 6
Final seminar weekDec 9–13
Depart from DakarDec 14 or 15

Intensive + Fall 2024

Application Open Date: Dec 1, 2023
Application Deadline: May 1, 2024

ScheduleDate
Depart from the USAugust 3
Arrive in DakarAugust 4
Last day of Pre-SessionAugust 23
Semester OrientationAug 26–Sept 1
Classroom phaseSept 2–Oct 18
Fall breakOct 19-25
Internship/Research phaseOct 28–Dec 6
Final seminar weekDec 9-13
Depart from DakarDec 14 or 15

Spring 2024

Application Open Date: May 1, 2023
Application Deadline: October 15, 2023

ScheduleDate
Depart from the USJan 13/14
Arrive in DakarJan 14
OrientationJan 15–19
Classroom phaseJan 20–Mar 8
Spring breakMar 9–16
Internship/Research phaseMar 18–Apr 26
Final seminar weekApr 29–May 3
Depart from DakarMay 4/5

Intensive + Spring 2024

Application Open Date: May 1, 2023
Application Deadline: October 15, 2023

ScheduleDate
Depart from the USDecember 27/28
Arrive in DakarDecember 28
Last day of Pre-SessionJanuary 12
Semester OrientationJan 15-19
Classroom phaseJan 20–Mar 8
Spring breakMar 9–16
Internship/Research phaseMar 18–Apr 26
Final seminar weekApr 29–May 3
Depart from DakarMay 4/5

Fees

Fall 2024

Spring 2024

University of Minnesota participants pay the program fee instead of on-campus tuition and fees for the term they are abroad.

If you do not see a budget estimate for the term you intend to go abroad, the fee has not yet been finalized. We strive to post fees for this program at least 30 days prior to the application deadline. The Learning Abroad Center will delay the posting of some fees until enrollments, inflation, and exchange rates are determined. Note the average increase in fees will be 3–10%. Program fees are based on estimates and may change depending on international economic factors.

Fees or tuition from home institutions may be added to or differ from the University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Center fees listed on this page.

Billing & Payments

Visit Billing for information about the billing process for application fees, deposits, and program fees.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Visit Financial Information for information on using financial aid and scholarships for study abroad.

Bridging Loan

Bridging Loan, a no-interest/no-fees loan that funds the upfront deposit and flights costs, is available for this program for eligible students.

Cancellation Policy

Before you apply to or confirm your participation on this program, review the Learning Abroad Center's Cancellation Policy to inform yourself of the timeline and financial obligations for canceling.

Fall 2024—Standard

MSID Senegal: Standard

Homestay 1—Homestay

Fall Semester 2024

Program Fee

  • UofM students pay program fee instead of on-campus tuition & fees while abroad
  • Billed through UofM account
Non-refundable deposit $400
Tuition and educational costs $15,043
International health insurance $228
Housing and/or mealsBreakfast and dinner are provided daily; lunch is provided on the weekends. Students are responsible for purchasing their lunch during the weekday. $3,224
Transportation (if required and included in program fee) $0
Total Program Fee $18,895
Program discount for University of Minnesota and Big Ten students, if applicable $-100
Total Program Fee with discount, if applicable $18,795

Estimated Additional Expenses

  • Financial aid-eligible but not included in program fee
Costs Typically Incurred Prior to Departure These costs may need to be paid before your financial aid is disbursed for your term abroad.
Transportation to and from program siteEstimated round-trip airfare: Minneapolis/St.Paul - Dakar. $2,000
Passport/photos $150
Visa/required documentsAt this point, there is no charge for a Senegalese visa. Students should make sure their passport is valid and will not expire while abroad. $0
Travel clinic/immunizations* $500
Housing deposit $0
Total Estimated Cost Incurred Prior to Departure $2,650
Costs Typically Incurred After Arrival in Host Country
Texts/materials $150
Housing and/or meals not included in program feeWeekday lunches $20/week. $300
Essential daily living expensesIncludes the cost of a required cell phone. $750
Total Estimated Cost Incurred After Arrival in Host Country $1,200

Total Estimated Cost of Participation

  • UofM students—compare this to your estimated on campus cost of attendance
Total Estimated Cost of Participation $22,645
Spending money and personal travel Not included in financial aid calculation $1,000
Additional Notes & Information
* Immunizations Note: This estimate is based on approximate cost of travel-related vaccinations and medications required for entry or recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Your costs may be higher or lower depending on your travel clinic, the specific immunizations and medication prescribed, and your insurance coverage.

Fall 2024—Standard plus Intensive French

MSID Senegal: Plus Intensive French

Homestay 1—Homestay

Fall Semester 2024

Program Fee

  • UofM students pay program fee instead of on-campus tuition & fees while abroad
  • Billed through UofM account
Non-refundable deposit $400
Tuition and educational costs $17,146
International health insurance $271
Housing and/or mealsBreakfast and dinner are provided daily; lunch is provided on the weekends. Students are responsible for purchasing their lunch during the weekday. $3,843
Transportation (if required and included in program fee) $0
Total Program Fee $21,660
Program discount for University of Minnesota and Big Ten students, if applicable $-1,000
Total Program Fee with discount, if applicable $20,660

Estimated Additional Expenses

  • Financial aid-eligible but not included in program fee
Costs Typically Incurred Prior to Departure These costs may need to be paid before your financial aid is disbursed for your term abroad.
Transportation to and from program siteEstimated round-trip airfare: Minneapolis/St.Paul - Dakar. $2,000
Passport/photos $150
Visa/required documentsAt this point, there is no charge for a Senegalese visa. Students should make sure their passport is valid and will not expire while abroad. $0
Travel clinic/immunizations* $500
Housing deposit $0
Total Estimated Cost Incurred Prior to Departure $2,650
Costs Typically Incurred After Arrival in Host Country
Texts/materials $150
Housing and/or meals not included in program feeWeekday lunches $20/week. $380
Essential daily living expensesIncludes the cost of a required cell phone. $900
Total Estimated Cost Incurred After Arrival in Host Country $1,430

Total Estimated Cost of Participation

  • UofM students—compare this to your estimated on campus cost of attendance
Total Estimated Cost of Participation $24,740
Spending money and personal travel Not included in financial aid calculation $1,000
Additional Notes & Information
* Immunizations Note: This estimate is based on approximate cost of travel-related vaccinations and medications required for entry or recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Your costs may be higher or lower depending on your travel clinic, the specific immunizations and medication prescribed, and your insurance coverage.

Spring 2024—Standard

MSID Senegal: Standard

Homestay 1—Homestay

Spring Semester 2024

Program Fee

  • UofM students pay program fee instead of on-campus tuition & fees while abroad
  • Billed through UofM account
Non-refundable deposit $400
Tuition and educational costs $15,011
International health insurance $240
Housing and/or mealsBreakfast and dinner are provided daily; lunch is provided on the weekends. Students are responsible for purchasing their lunch during the weekday. $3,224
Transportation (if required and included in program fee) $0
Total Program Fee $18,875
Program discount for University of Minnesota and Big Ten students, if applicable $-1,000
Total Program Fee with discount, if applicable $17,875

Estimated Additional Expenses

  • Financial aid-eligible but not included in program fee
Costs Typically Incurred Prior to Departure These costs may need to be paid before your financial aid is disbursed for your term abroad.
Transportation to and from program siteEstimated round-trip airfare: Minneapolis/St.Paul - Dakar. $2,000
Passport/photos $150
Visa/required documentsAt this point, there is no charge for a Senegalese visa. Students should make sure their passport is valid and will not expire while abroad. $0
Travel clinic/immunizations* $500
Housing deposit $0
Total Estimated Cost Incurred Prior to Departure $2,650
Costs Typically Incurred After Arrival in Host Country
Texts/materials $150
Housing and/or meals not included in program feeWeekday lunches $20/week. $300
Essential daily living expensesIncludes the cost of a required cell phone. $750
Total Estimated Cost Incurred After Arrival in Host Country $1,200

Total Estimated Cost of Participation

  • UofM students—compare this to your estimated on campus cost of attendance
Total Estimated Cost of Participation $21,725
Spending money and personal travel Not included in financial aid calculation $1,000
Additional Notes & Information
* Immunizations Note: This estimate is based on approximate cost of travel-related vaccinations and medications required for entry or recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Your costs may be higher or lower depending on your travel clinic, the specific immunizations and medication prescribed, and your insurance coverage.

Spring 2024—Standard plus Intensive French

MSID Senegal: Plus Intensive French

Homestay 1—Homestay

Spring Semester 2024

Program Fee

  • UofM students pay program fee instead of on-campus tuition & fees while abroad
  • Billed through UofM account
Non-refundable deposit $400
Tuition and educational costs $17,118
International health insurance $274
Housing and/or mealsBreakfast and dinner are provided daily; lunch is provided on the weekends. Students are responsible for purchasing their lunch during the weekday. $3,843
Transportation (if required and included in program fee) $0
Total Program Fee $21,635
Program discount for University of Minnesota and Big Ten students, if applicable $-1,000
Total Program Fee with discount, if applicable $20,635

Estimated Additional Expenses

  • Financial aid-eligible but not included in program fee
Costs Typically Incurred Prior to Departure These costs may need to be paid before your financial aid is disbursed for your term abroad.
Transportation to and from program siteEstimated round-trip airfare: Minneapolis/St.Paul - Dakar. $2,000
Passport/photos $150
Visa/required documentsAt this point, there is no charge for a Senegalese visa. Students should make sure their passport is valid and will not expire while abroad. $0
Travel clinic/immunizations* $500
Housing deposit $0
Total Estimated Cost Incurred Prior to Departure $2,650
Costs Typically Incurred After Arrival in Host Country
Texts/materials $150
Housing and/or meals not included in program feeWeekday lunches $20/week. $380
Essential daily living expensesIncludes the cost of a required cell phone. $900
Total Estimated Cost Incurred After Arrival in Host Country $1,430

Total Estimated Cost of Participation

  • UofM students—compare this to your estimated on campus cost of attendance
Total Estimated Cost of Participation $24,715
Spending money and personal travel Not included in financial aid calculation $1,000
Additional Notes & Information
* Immunizations Note: This estimate is based on approximate cost of travel-related vaccinations and medications required for entry or recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Your costs may be higher or lower depending on your travel clinic, the specific immunizations and medication prescribed, and your insurance coverage.

Prepare

Complete pre-application advising.

US Passport holders require a visa to study on this program. In order to obtain a visa, you must have a valid passport. Current US passport processing times are longer than normal. If you do not have a passport, or your passport expires less than 6 months after your return date from your time abroad, apply for a new passport now.

Apply

The COVID-19 vaccine series is required for participation in this program. Complete your COVID-19 vaccine doses immediately.

You will be charged a $50 application fee for each application you submit.

Apply Now

Complete

After you submit your application, you will receive an email notification confirming that your application was received. Submitted applications are assigned an application checklist, which will include the following items:

  • Resume
  • Statement of Purpose in English
  • Statement of Purpose in French
  • Academic Recommendation from a French professor 
    • Students must have a B average in French
    • Students must have taken French within the last academic year or verify advanced level proficiency
  • Transcript

If you do not meet the GPA requirement for this program you will be required to submit an additional essay. It will be added to your checklist after you start your application, and you will be notified when it has been added.

Detailed descriptions and instructions for submitting each checklist item are included on the application checklist assigned to you.

Application Review Process

After your application checklist is complete, your application is reviewed by our program team. You will be notified of an acceptance decision by email. If accepted, you will be assigned an acceptance checklist, which you will complete to confirm your participation in the program. If you decide not to continue with the application process, log into the online application system and submit a Cancel Request.

After You Apply

Before your program begins, review these resources.

Health & Safety

Learn more about staying healthy and safe abroad, including mental health and wellness, international travel insurance, and safety precautions.

Power of Attorney

Consider designating someone as your power of attorney to act as your legal representative while you’re abroad.

Student Identity

Consult our resources on student identities as you prepare for your abroad experience.

Travel Resources

Ready to go abroad? Our travel resources will help you pack and learn what to expect.

Visa

Passport

You will need a passport to enter Senegal. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your program. If you have not already obtained your passport, apply for one immediately. Information about applying for a passport can be found on the US Department of State's website.

Visa Application Instructions

All US or non-US citizens studying in Senegal must obtain a student visa prior to departure. You should begin the application process 60 days prior to the official program arrival date and your application should be submitted no later than 45 days in advance of the official program arrival date.  Detailed step-by-step instructions about the visa process will be provided during the pre-departure orientation and advising. 

 

Program Contact

For further information or questions about this program, send an email to

Ashley Metz or call at 612.625.9805

Contact Program Alum

Below is a list of additional students who participated in past program sessions. They are ready and willing to answer your questions about this program. Feel free to contact them during your decision-making process or anytime during your pre-departure preparation to get a student perspective.

  • Sophia H.—Linguistics, Honors, and Global Studies (emphasis on Africa) majors, Teaching English as a Second Language minor, Entrepreneurship theme, Internship, Spring 2023
  • Carly C.—Political Science and Religious Studies majors, Internship, Human Rights theme, Fall 2022
  • Olivia D.—Industrial and Systems Engineering and French Studies majors, Internship, Sustainability theme, Fall 2022
  • Olivia T.—International Relations and Theatre Production majors, African Studies minor, Internship, Entrepreneurship theme, Spring 2022
  • Annika G.—Accounting Major, French Minor, Internship, Entrepreneurship theme, Spring 2022
  • Clara Z.—Economics and French majors, Global Development Studies minor, Internship, Entrepreneurship theme, Fall 2021