African American Studies

The minor in African American studies offers a multidisciplinary perspective on African American life and culture.

With a minor in African American studies, you will explore the contributions of people of African descent in every area of human endeavor. This exploration helps you begin to understand the material circumstances of these individuals’ lives.

The African American studies minor not only gives you a scholarly perspective on the lives and accomplishments of African Americans, it educates you to be a positive and productive citizen of a multicultural world.

Program Overview

The minor includes courses that address social, political, and economic issues confronting people of African descent, particularly those who live in the United States.

The 18-credit-hour minor consists of a required introductory course, black history and culture classes, and an elective related to the African American experience, chosen from a slate of multidisciplinary offerings. When you minor in African American studies, you also will complete a seminar course in your senior year.

Activities

Each year the African American studies program hosts a topical discussion and forum called Gathering of the Griots. Past events have explored topics that include:

• Coal Black Voices Unfurling the Flag: Affrilachian Poet/Founder Frank X Walker (2016)
• Masculinity Beyond the Man Box (2015)
• Reclaiming the Black Literary Body (2013)
• Civil Rights, Resistance, and the Real Help (2012)