African and African American Studies

This program examines the histories, cultures, and social experiences of African and African diasporic communities through an interdisciplinary lens spanning history, literature, sociology, and the arts.

As a graduate program in Arts & Humanities, African and African American Studies prepares students through a blend of core theory, hands-on coursework, and applied or research projects, guided by faculty active in the field.

What You'll Learn

• Comparative diaspora studies
• Race, identity, and social movements
• African and African American literature and the arts
• Research methods in the humanities and social sciences

Sample Courses

• Introduction to African Diaspora Studies
• Black Political Thought
• African American Literature
• Research Seminar

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Analyze primary and secondary sources across historical and cultural contexts
• Situate contemporary social issues within their historical roots
• Produce an original research paper grounded in archival or ethnographic evidence

Career Paths

Graduates go on to roles such as Museum and archive careers, Public policy and advocacy, Academia and research, and Journalism and media.

Admission Notes

Applicants typically hold a bachelor's degree in a related field and are asked to submit a statement of purpose, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation; standardized test requirements vary by department.