Choose the Academic Path That’s Right for You
The Department of Africana Studies offers two bachelor’s degrees, an integrated undergraduate-graduate degree, and three minors that explore Africa, the Black experience in the United States, and the broader African diaspora.
Whether you’re interested in history, public policy, global engagement, or community leadership, you’ll find opportunities to deepen your interests while preparing for meaningful careers and lifelong learning.
Not sure where to start?
Explore Pathways to Impact to discover which program best aligns with your interests—from advancing justice and building global connections to transforming organizations and supporting communities.
Bachelor of Arts (125 credits) and Minor (18 credits)
Explore the histories, cultures, politics, and lived experiences of Black communities in the United States through an interdisciplinary curriculum that examines identity, social change, and systems of power. You’ll develop historical, analytical, and research skills while studying the ideas, institutions, and movements that have shaped—and continue to shape—our world.
Highlights
- Interdisciplinary study of history, culture, politics, and society
- Opportunities for research, internships, and community engagement
- Strong preparation for graduate study and careers in public service, education, law, communications, and nonprofit leadership
Bachelor of Arts (123 credits) and Minor (18 credits)
Study Africa’s histories, cultures, languages, politics, and societies through an interdisciplinary and global perspective. Learn from faculty whose expertise spans disciplines and regions while exploring the historical and contemporary issues shaping the African continent and its connections to the world.
Highlights
- Interdisciplinary curriculum drawing from the humanities and social sciences
- Faculty-led education abroad and embedded course opportunities
- Participation in experiences such as the Model African Union
Integrated Undergraduate-Graduate Degree (168 credits)
Earn a bachelor’s degree in African American Studies and a Master of Public Policy in as little as five years. This integrated program prepares students interested in public service, advocacy, government, and policy analysis to connect Africana Studies with real-world policy challenges.
Minor (18 credits)
Explore the histories, cultures, and global experiences of people of African descent while examining the connections that have shaped communities across the Americas and beyond. This interdisciplinary minor complements a wide range of majors and helps students develop a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary forces that connect communities around the world.
Explore What's Possible
Pathways to Impact
Learn how African American Studies and African Studies connect to careers, graduate study, and opportunities across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Beyond the Classroom
Research, internships, education abroad, student organizations, and leadership experiences help bring your education to life and prepare you for success after graduation.