Skip to main content

Africana Studies Minor

Africana studies is housed in the Department of History and is devoted to the academic exploration and analysis of the history and cultures of blacks in Africa and the African diaspora. Through research, interpretation and the dissemination of knowledge, Africana studies examines the structure, organization, problems, and perspectives of blacks in Africa and the Americas.

What will Africana studies do for me?

A minor in Africana studies will correct the distorted historical record of peoples of African descent. African cultures, indigenous African institutions, artistic expressions, music and dance, among other monumental historical achievements of black peoples around the globe, must be examined from the African perspective. In other words, black peoples both on the continent and in the diaspora have been and will continue to be active agents in transforming world cultures and civilizations.

The Africana studies minor seeks to provide a comprehensive academic program. Students from all racial, religious and ethnic backgrounds are exposed to an academic experience beyond those found in the traditional college curriculum. In addition to providing a heightened sense of awareness about persons of African descent and their contribution to world civilizations, Africana studies has practical applications. 

Africana s tudies can be applied to the foundation of most graduate studies in the social sciences, liberal arts  and major professional programs. Examples include  international affairs, education, social work, politics and government, law enforcement, social policy studies, healthcare, urban planning and other new forms of professional training.

How do I get a minor in Africana studies?

View the Africana studies program of study to learn more about the curriculum.  Students are encouraged to work with an Africana studies advisor to complete an individualized curriculum plan.

For more information contact: Kate Staples, Chair of the History Department