The Gullah Geechee people, descendants of West and Central Africans enslaved on Lowcountry plantations, created one of the most distinctive cultures in America. This certificate explores that culture’s history, language and living traditions, right where they took root.
What you’ll learn
- Gullah Geechee history from West Africa to the present
- The Gullah language and its connections to African languages
- Sweetgrass basketry, music, foodways and spiritual traditions
- Land, heirs’ property and community preservation
- Oral history methods and cultural heritage interpretation
Why Palmetto Ridge
Founded in 1894 to educate Black teachers, Palmetto Ridge has deep roots in the communities this program studies. Courses meet in historic Old Main and online through RidgeLearn, with Saturday field experiences at heritage sites, praise houses and community gatherings along Cooper’s Run. Professor Gloria, who grew up speaking Gullah, teaches alongside invited culture bearers, including sweetgrass basket makers and storytellers. Students complete an oral history project that is added to the college archive. The certificate pairs well with Hospitality & Tourism, Education and the Associate in Arts, and it prepares you for roles in museums, heritage tourism and cultural preservation.
Careers & next steps
- Heritage Tour Guide
- Museum Educator
- Cultural Preservation Specialist
- Oral History Researcher
- Community Program Coordinator
Ready to start?
Applying is free. An advisor will help you map every class from day one to graduation.