Bachelor of Arts in Afro-American Studies
Develop a thorough understanding of the history and culture of Black communities.
The Afro-American studies major is ideal for students who want to develop a deep understanding of the history and culture of Black people in Africa and the Americas. You’ll gain skills in project development, research and analysis, interpersonal and cross-cultural communication, critical thinking, and writing, preparing you to meet the complex challenges that face our communities, country, and the world.
You’ll begin with introductory courses in the concepts, skills, and tools of modern scholarship, and the history, literature, and culture of Black people, from ancient African origins to contemporary life. You’ll then take courses that concentrate on your areas of interest, such as history, social science, literature, or the arts. All students complete a senior project under the supervision of a faculty member.
Graduates have gone on to graduate school in fields such as African and Afro-American studies, education, history, political science, public health, industrial relations, urban planning, law, and literature. They have also pursued careers in areas like teaching, journalism, communications, criminal justice, and community organizing.
Benefits list
Why Major in Afro-American Studies?
To earn a degree in Afro-American Studies or to take courses leading to a certificate or a minor, is to follow in the academic excellence and social responsibility footsteps of the great W.E.B. Du Bois.
Bright Futures
Graduates of the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies have secured employment in areas such as public relations, education, business and finance, performance and creative writing, global affairs, government and public administration, environmental justice, public health, and more.
Featured faculty
Yolanda Covington-Ward
Professor
Yolanda Covington-Ward is a professor and the department chair of the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies.
Britt Rusert
Associate Professor
Britt Rusert is an associate professor and director of undergraduate studies in the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies.
In the spotlight
“I took an introductory class on African American political science, which is a very interesting class, but I did not anticipate just how interested I was going to be in it and how intriguing it all was. Keep an open mind because that’s how you’re going to learn more than what you want to learn.”
Afro-American Studies
Deepen your understanding of the history and culture of African and Afro-American communities and use your knowledge to work for a more socially just world.