Program Overview

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Introduction to African American and African Studies

The African American and African Studies program is an interdisciplinary field of study in the humanities, arts, and social sciences. This program investigates the history and culture of communities of African descent in the United States and on the African continent, as well as in diasporic communities of Canada, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.

Program Description

The purpose of this program is to give students a sense of the individual characteristics and common concerns of Black communities in Africa, the United States, and in the wider diaspora. Students explore how social, political, and economic factors shape community experience in these locations.

Major Requirements

You will begin with a series of foundation courses on historical and contemporary African American culture and society, essential social science methodology, and comparative ethnic studies. You may choose, in addition to your study of African American culture, to focus on African or diaspora studies. There is great flexibility within the major to concentrate on areas of particular interest to you.

Careers

• Lawyer
  • Lobbyist
  • Advocate
  • Teacher/Professor
  • Counselor
  • Administrator
  • Policy Director

Graduate Study

• Law
• Sociology
• Cultural studies
• Education
• Film studies

Alumni Employers

• Apple
• Teach for America
• State of California
• University of California
• PeaceCorps

Related Degrees

• Chicana/Chicano Studies
• Asian American Studies
• Native American Studies

Internship Opportunities

Explore internships and jobs on campus and beyond.

Course Roadmap

Find the detailed course requirements for your program and map out your path to graduation.

Faculty

Our undergraduates work directly with our faculty through research projects and labs.

Global Learning Programs

Expand your horizons by studying abroad or pursuing global learning on campus.

Undergraduate Research

Get hands-on with your interests. Participate in one of our hundreds of research opportunities.

Career Opportunities

Learn how to connect your major to career opportunities.