Admissions

Africana Studies

Africana Studies offers a broad, interdisciplinary program. The curriculum covers a variety of subjects pertaining to Africa and the African Diaspora. The major establishes a strong academic foundation that can lead directly into a career or into graduate study in a variety of fields. It also creates linkages between the university community and the broader community by developing frameworks for social change. In short, the major seeks to provide a well-rounded educational experience. Courses offered in Africana Studies are available to all who are interested.

Program Overview

Fifteen lower-division units in Africana Studies are required as preparatory course work for the major. These classes include introductory courses in Africana Studies, lifestyles, history, and psychology.

The upper-division curriculum is designed to enable students to specialize in one area of the major, such as sociology and psychology, humanities, or history and political science, while maintaining a holistic view of Africana Studies

A minor in Africana studies is strongly recommended for all students whose future careers might impact the lives of African Americans and other ethnic groups.

Special Features

The Africana Studies Department advises several student organizations:

  • The Afrikan Student Union is responsible for planning events that have an impact on the social, cultural and political life of the student.
  • The Association of Africana Studies Majors and Minors sponsors such activities as lectures, special outreach programs, trips, and conferences.
  • The Africana Psychological Society hosts guest psychologists throughout the year. Topics of lectures and discussions reflect timely issues of interest to students.
  • The Africana Advancement Organization serves as a support group for other organizations and for the department at special events throughout the year.
  • The African Association of Languages and Literatures is composed of students interested in literature, journalism and other forms of writing.

Career Opportunities

There are many career possibilities available to Africana Studies majors. The graduate may find a position in private school education, social service or social work as an associate/aide. Other positions may include library assistant/researcher, political aide, journalist, counseling or private industry intern, community worker, or outreach coordinator.

Other fields available to Africana Studies majors may require postgraduate study: administration, African affairs, business consulting, counseling, college or university teaching, foreign service, government service, program analyst, urban affairs specialist, sociologist. Being exposed to ethnic courses helps to develop a sensitivity that is needed if you plan on being a doctor or lawyer, especially if working with ethnic groups.

To further explore career options in this field, visit the Career Services Web site for more information.

General Catalog

You can view more complete information regarding the Africana Studies program in the General Catalog. All students are responsible for reading and knowing the information pertinent to their areas of study available in the General Catalog. It contains requirements for all academic majors, course descriptions, policies, and regulations governing progress at the university. Catalogs are distributed at all New Student Orientation programs. To order a Catalog, call (619) 594-7535.