In African American and African Diaspora Studies we examine the experiences of people of African descent in the U.S. and throughout the world. We dispel myths and expose those attitudes that perpetuate racism in American life. Our students study art, literature, film, folklore, music, dance, history, institutions, communities, culture, stratification, movements, identities, and more.
Undergraduate
Take courses that interest you
Our faculty represents a wide variety of interests and disciplines, allowing AAADS students to explore and customize their experience. In AAADS, you’ll look at the world through the lens of Black experiences and race. Whether you're interested in politics, art, music, literature, history, sports, sociology or another field, you can connect it back to Black culture in practical, creative, and meaningful ways.
Many of our courses explore topics relevant to the most crucial conversations in our society today. You can study power systems, protest strategies, urban growth, and the history of civil rights and Black Power movements, among other issues that have shaped political systems.
Tangible, transferable skills
In addition to conveying significant subject matter information, our undergraduate degrees offer you a chance to develop a strong set of transferable skills. In the process of obtaining either our B.A. degree or one of our four interdepartmental degrees, you gain expertise that is sought after within education, business, the arts, government, and in social service organizations.
Our graduates go into politics, community organizing, law, research, management, or into a wide variety of jobs that address the need for more understanding of diversity within the workplace. You learn how to learn, how to communicate with authority and empathy, and how to show up—even when the circumstances are challenging.
Our B.A. degrees can also prepare you for entry into graduate programs in a wide variety of fields, such as politics, education, consulting, research, nonprofit management, and business. With careful planning, and in consultation with the Health Professions and Prelaw Center, you can prepare to enter law school, medical school, or other programs in the health professions.
Consider pursuing a dual major or minor
Already engaged in another major, but interested in AAADS? You can do both. Our degree pairs well with many other majors. On top of that, it’s easy to do since many AAADS courses count for GenEd and CASE credit, as well as electives in other programs. Speak with our academic advisor to determine if a dual major or minor will work for you.
Whether declaring a major, adding a minor or dual degree to your current major, or just taking classes, you’ll acquire strategies and critical thinking skills to work with diverse populations across a variety of careers.
We are part of the College of Arts + Sciences
A degree in African American and African Diaspora Studies provides students with the foundational skills of a liberal arts education, which are prized by employers and vital to a 21st-century career.
Preparation for a meaningful career
Your degree will provide you with a diverse set of skills and knowledge, preparing you for a variety of work environments. We offer and encourage participation in internships.
Be part of a community
Our faculty and students are a big family. Through small courses, informal mentoring, independent studies, and authentic relationships, you’ll find people who care about you and your success.
Neal Marshall Black Cultural Center (NMBCC)
The NMBCC has an extensive history of supporting the university’s efforts to challenge, support, and contribute to the continued development and success of the black students, faculty, and staff.
The College of Arts