| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-10-15 | - |
| 2025-03-15 | - |
Program Overview
The African Studies Certificate provides a comprehensive understanding of Africa and its diverse cultures through interdisciplinary courses in literature, history, and social sciences. It fosters critical thinking, intercultural communication, and global citizenship, preparing graduates for careers in fields related to African and global Black studies, including social work, history, and international relations.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The African Studies Certificate equips individuals with a comprehensive understanding of Africa and its diverse populations and cultures. The program encourages critical thinking about African and global Black literature, history, politics, sociology, and anthropology, fostering an appreciation for the rich tapestry of identities, aesthetics, and cultural traditions within the continent. The certificate aligns with Liberal Arts Associate Degree and future four-year degree programs, emphasizing cross-disciplinary learning and a commitment to bridging cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Objectives:
Acquire knowledge about Africa's diverse peoples and cultures. Enhance critical thinking skills in African and global Black studies. Broaden understanding of human diversity and the complexities of identity formation. Develop intercultural communication and global citizenship abilities. Prepare for further studies or careers related to African Studies, social work, history, English, anthropology, and sociology.
Program Structure:
The certificate program comprises courses across multiple disciplines, including English, history, journalism, anthropology, and sociology. Students complete a core course in Introduction to African and Global Black Studies and select nine additional credits from a list of elective courses, allowing for customization based on interests and career goals.
Outline:
Core Course:
20-809-290 Introduction to African and Global Black Studies (3 credits)
Elective Courses:
20-801-214 African American Literature (3 credits) 20-801-226 Introduction to African Literature (3 credits) 20-801-252 World Issues Journalism (3 credits) 20-803-224 Early African History (3 credits) 20-803-243 Modern Africa (3 credits)
Careers:
Career Outcomes:
Upon completing the African Studies Certificate, graduates will possess the following skills: Cultural Awareness: Understanding and respecting cultural norms and practices while recognizing individual differences. Intercultural Communication: Communicating effectively in diverse cultural settings. International Travel: Preparedness for international experiences, risk assessment, and adaptation to unexpected situations. Global Citizenship: Recognizing global interdependence, understanding global perceptions of the United States, and solving problems from multiple perspectives. Global Work Skills: Applying global perspectives in the workplace, collaborating with diverse colleagues, and adapting to cultural variations in occupational practices. Related Careers: The certificate prepares graduates for careers in social work, history, English, anthropology, sociology, international relations, and non-profit organizations with a focus on Africa and global Black communities.